The Chicago Bears stunned the football world last year when news broke they’d begun exploring the idea of purchasing the Arlington Racecourse International property in Arlington Heights. It was the first time they made a serious effort to leave Soldier Field since the team started playing there way back in the 1970s. Some couldn’t understand why. Those who’d followed the Bears for years knew this situation had been brewing for a long time.
The McCaskey family was resentful of the Chicago Park District and its continued efforts to restrict any and all renovation ideas for the stadium. It was reported that when CPD officials brushed off the idea of installing a sportsbook to take advantage of newly legalized gambling, that was the last straw. It turns out the Bears already had an incentive to make a move. Alex Maragos, Nathan Halder, and Shelby Bremer of NBC 5 Chicago traced details to a specific date when the genesis of their property purchase began.
Through a Freedom of Information Act request, NBC 5 Investigates obtained messages between Arlington Heights officials and anyone using a Bears email address.
The paper trail began with a letter from Mayor Thomas Hayes to George McCaskey on March 4, 2021, putting out a feeler about the team’s interest in the property. He said the village was working to find a use for it “that is worthy of the track’s legacy” and that he hoped to discuss how they might “work together to build something special there.”
Since that day, their communications paint a picture of partnership – completely coordinated messaging and, as Bears President Ted Phillips put it, shared excitement about “bringing our vision to life.”
Chicago Bears just needed a nudge. They got it.
Credit must go to Arlington Heights’ mayor for recognizing the opportunity. Bringing the Bears to that town would have a massive economic impact, making the town a destination spot for not only more locals of the region but also plenty of tourists. There is also the bonus of hosting concerts, college tournaments, and a renovation of the property that would bring more entertainment to the area. It would put Arlington Heights on the map.
Economic experts say the actual impact is being exaggerated. Football stadiums are money losers in the long run. Yet it’s not only the stadium the Chicago Bears are building. For years, they’ve wanted to transform the property around Soldier Field into a much more fan-friendly experience. All while trying to improve revenue streams. The sportsbook was only one of several possibilities they were denied. It’s honestly surprising March 4th, 2021, was the line of departure and not far sooner.
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