Full Breakdown
Bears Anticipate Thursday Update on Hammond Stadium Plans
8/13/2026, 2:37:51 AM
Expected Thursday Announcement on Stadium Plans
Mayor Tom McDermott of Hammond, Indiana, said the Chicago Bears informed his office that they will make an announcement on Thursday, though he was not told what the announcement will cover. The team has not publicly confirmed any upcoming statement. The expected update comes as the Bears continue evaluating sites in Hammond for a new stadium, a process that has intensified after the Illinois “PILOT” bill failed to pass.
Background: Search for a New Home and Indiana Incentives
Following the board’s June vote to advance a stadium development in Hammond, the Bears have shifted focus to northwest Indiana. State officials have pledged up to $1 billion in incentives to attract the franchise, and the Wolf Lake Terminal area—just west of I-90 and near the state line—has been highlighted as a potential site. Soil testing and environmental assessments are underway to address concerns raised at other proposed locations. The team still retains the former Arlington International Racecourse property in Arlington Heights, Illinois, but no movement has been reported there.
Official Statements & Responses
- Chairman George McCaskey indicated that due-diligence on a second Hammond site is ongoing and that he and President Kevin Warren expect to have more to report in the coming days.
- Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch noted that discussions continue on the Illinois side, though no special legislative session has been convened.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I hope it's about the stadium,” — Tom McDermott, mayor
- “I do know there's extensive testing going on even right now,” — Tom McDermott, mayor
- “I know about it as much about it as you all, but I was told from the Bears that there will be an announcement tomorrow,” — Tom McDermott, mayor
What’s Next
The Bears are slated to deliver an update on Thursday, which could include further details on the Hammond site selection, progress of environmental testing, or a broader statement on the stadium timeline. Indiana officials indicated that additional due-diligence work may extend over the next few months before any final agreement is reached.
