Bears Reconsider Michael Reese Hospital for New Stadium

The Chicago Bears are reconsidering the former Michael Reese Hospital site for their new stadium after facing challenges with their preferred $5 billion lakefront location. Despite previously ruling it out due to security concerns from its proximity to train tracks, the site is being reconsidered amid stalled negotiations for public funding in Springfield, as the team seeks $900 million in public money and up to $1.5 billion for infrastructure. While Mayor Brandon Johnson supports the lakefront proposal, Governor J.B. Pritzker remains opposed to public funding for private stadiums. The Bears' renewed interest in the Reese site follows advocacy from groups like Friends of the Parks, who have pushed for alternatives to lakefront development. Discussions are ongoing, with no final decision reached yet.