It feels like a good time to share the latest development regarding Soldier Field’s future.
And for what it’s worth, it’s a doozy, too. That’s because a virtual tour of a reimagined Soldier Field from Landmark Development is making the rounds.
You can read more about it at the Tribune, Sun-Times, and Front Office Sports. But I’d bet you’d want to check out the video below first:
The proposal includes a year-round entertainment district that prominently features an upgraded Soldier Field. What would that look like? Well, this includes increased seating, food and beverage options, a translucent dome, and the potential for improved access via transportation. Altogether, it looks like something we’ve all been wanting from proposal by the city to the Bears.
OK, so this probably doesn’t move the needle for the team. And there is also a “too little, too late” vibe that I can’t really shake after watching. But that doesn’t mean this isn’t inconsequential. Soldier Field sits in the heart of downtown on some premier property. If the city of Chicago is willing to bring itself into the 21st century, it can make a post-makeover Soldier Field a centerpiece of a go-to entertainment district. Museum Campus is beautiful. But it is such a pain in the butt to get to. And while Soldier Field is a place where many have memories they cherish, I’ve long felt it was outdated.
In other words, I’m all-in on any concepts and renderings for the area — and specifically, Soldier Field. Because even if it can’t lure the Bears back to the city, there are still ample opportunities for that area to be of high use for citizens and visitors alike.
Admittedly, it feels like it is a matter of when (and not if) the Bears leave Soldier Field for Arlington Heights. But the two sides have yet to cross the goal line and make things officially official.
Remember, the Bears were reportedly hoping to have an official announcement at the end of the 2022 calendar year. That didn’t happen. And while I don’t think that is a sign that this will fall through, I suppose we should never say never when it comes to a Bears return to Soldier Field. After all, we’re talking about Chicago and Illinois politics. We’ve seen stranger things happen. Stay tuned.