Chicago Bears stadium proposal gains support from Indiana governor

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said it's no surprise the Chicago Bears are continuing to explore a proposal to build a new stadium in northwest Indiana, arguing the state offers a stronger business climate than neighboring Illinois.

"Now that they've had a chance to look at a Triple-A credit rating state, with a hot economy, well you'll get a lot more stadium built for the money you're gonna invest," Braun said.

Braun also criticized Illinois' efforts to keep the team in the state.

"One state was willing to talk in good faith and moved at the speed of business, the other one couldn't even get anything out of their legislature," Braun said.

The Bears have not announced a final site for a potential stadium project. However, the team previously said it was considering the Wolf Lake area in Hammond, Indiana, about 40 minutes from Soldier Field.

The Bears' lease at Soldier Field is set to expire in 2033. The franchise has spent years weighing options for a new stadium, including proposals in both Illinois and Indiana.

If the Bears ultimately choose northwest Indiana, one of the NFL's most recognizable franchises would remain close to Chicago while bringing a major development project across the state line.