Chicago Bears vote to build new stadium in Hammond, Indiana

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Da Bears are coming to the Hoosier state.

The Chicago Bears board of directors voted to move forward with building a new world-class Bears stadium in Hammond, Indiana, about 40 minutes from the current site, Soldier Field.

"It will bring Chicagoland together and deliver new opportunities to its residents and businesses," the team said on X Friday.

Board members said an exact site still needs to be selected, but they were previously looking near the Wolf Lake area.

The decision comes after Illinois lawmakers failed to pass a bill for financing and tax relief for the team's proposed site in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Indiana lawmakers jumped on that, passing legislation so the Bears could move to Indiana.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun released this statement, welcoming the team:

"Hoosiers, help me welcome the Chicago Bears to our great state! We look forward to building a partnership as strong as the '85 Bears defense, creating opportunities and economic growth that will benefit our state and the Bears organization for decades to come. An NFL franchise in Northwest Indiana will be an economic boost to the entire region like we haven’t seen before. Thank you to Speaker Huston, the legislature, and Mayor McDermott for their partnership. I also want to thank the entire Chicago Bears organization for their partnership and commitment in making this move a reality. Welcome to Indiana!"