President/CEO Kevin Warren: Bears still hope to start lakefront stadium construction this year

The Bears still hope to begin stadium construction at some point this year — preferably at the Museum Campus parking lot next to Soldier Field downtown.

President/CEO Kevin Warren reiterated the franchise’s stance Tuesday at Halas Hall, saying that “downtown still remains the focus” despite the Bears owning 326 acres at the former Arlington International Racecourse site in Arlington Heights.

The Bears unveiled plans for a domed stadium next to Soldier Field in April.

Last month, three school districts and the Arlington Heights elected boards voted for an agreement that could give the Bears a property tax break.

“It's a fantastic piece of property,” Warren said. “We were able to get the memorandum of understanding done there. So optionality does exist. But I'll remain steadfast that the goal remains that we have shovels in the ground in 2025 and I'm confident that will happen.”

Warren, who was chosen as the Bears’ president/CEO two years ago and began work 20 months ago, claimed the Bears have gained some momentum on the lakefront project. However, major questions still exist about which municipalities would pay for the Bears’ project and surrounding infrastructure.