Community opposition is mounting against the Chicago Bears' proposal for a new stadium on the lakefront, spearheaded by the Friends of the Parks. Advocates argue that the plan would exacerbate existing inequities in the city and misuse public funds, with the Bears seeking up to $1.5 billion in taxpayer financing alongside their own $2.3 billion investment. Critics, including other civic groups, emphasize the importance of keeping the lakefront 'open, clear, and free' for public use and express skepticism about the promised economic benefits of the stadium. The Bears' plan involves significant alterations to Soldier Field, a historic site, which has raised further concerns among preservationists. State lawmakers, including Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, have shown reluctance to support the funding necessary for the project, indicating other priorities may take precedence. The Bears maintain that the new facility would include additional green space, but community leaders remain unconvinced of the project's merits.