Debate Intensifies Over Chicago Bears Stadium Site in Hammond

Mayor Concerns Over Proposed Hammond Site

Jim Tinaglia, mayor of Arlington Heights, is spearheading efforts to establish a Chicago Bears stadium there. In his role as an architect, Tinaglia expressed skepticism about the rival site in Hammond, Indiana. He told the Tribune, “I would throw up the red caution flags immediately.” His caution stems from experience with sites contaminated by hazardous materials such as those from gas stations. Residents previously fought for the cleanup of the Hammond site, resulting in a golf course built atop slag covered with treated bio-solids.

Site’s Industrial History and Location

The Hammond site sits near hazardous waste sites, an oil storage complex, and the Midwest’s largest oil refinery. Bears representatives have expressed comfort with the site, conducting soil tests and ongoing evaluations to ensure land viability. However, the site’s industrial legacy raises doubts about its suitability for a stadium.

Environmental and Legislative Context

Environmental concerns remain absent from legislative discussions about the Bears’ relocation. Earlier this year, Indiana lawmakers allocated $1 billion, supplemented by $2 billion from the team, for a stadium in Hammond. Illinois may soon counter with a proposal allowing megaproject sponsors to negotiate long-term property tax benefits.

Community and Environmental Group Responses

Environmental groups have largely remained silent on the Hammond project, with some relieved it wasn’t placed near Gary’s Indiana Dunes National Park. Michael Boos from the Association for the Wolf Lake Initiative voiced concerns, stating the stadium doesn’t align with the group’s mission to protect Wolf Lake.

Local Officials’ Defense

Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. defended the site, emphasizing the Bears’ investment in environmental concerns. He highlighted improvements in air quality following the closure of the State Line Generating coal plant in 2012. Despite ongoing federal EPA actions in the area, including the cleanup of lead and arsenic at the former Federated Metals facility, McDermott maintained confidence in the site.

State Legislative Actions

Illinois plans to pass legislation incentivizing the Bears stadium in Arlington Heights by the end of spring legislative session. This proposal aims to bolster economic opportunities surrounding the stadium.