Bears’ Arlington Heights stadium renderings, economic impact report released

The Bears released renderings of their proposed Arlington Heights stadium Tuesday as they work toward finalizing a plan to build on the 326 acres they own in the northwest suburb.

The plan for the fixed-roof dome with about 60,000 seats was designed by David Manica, the same architect who built Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, where the Bears beat the Raiders on Sunday.

The Bears released an economic impact report Tuesday conducted by HR&A Advisors in July. The project — which consists of a stadium and mixed-used district that features shops, restaurants and housing— would cost $10.9 billion, with the Bears paying for more than $2 billion. The stadium itself will cost $6.6 billion.

The report estimated that infrastructure costs would reach $855 million in public funds.

Once completed, the project would contribute $1.3 billion and 9,000 permanent jobs in statewide economic impact per year, the report estimated.

The Bears want legislation passed that freezes property tax assessments for large-scale projects and allows them to negotiate payments with local taxing bodies. The state house adjourned in June without a vote, but returns next month. The Bears have said construction costs are rising by $10 million-$12 million per month.

“We are urging state leaders to pass the Mega Project legislation, which creates a fair, predictable framework for property taxes that applies to any large-scale investment in Illinois,” according to a statement released by the team. “With this certainty, we can move forward ensuring this once-in-a-generation project becomes a reality and delivers its full potential for fans and communities across the state.”