Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot pitches dome for Soldier Field to entice Bears to remain at stadium

The Bears have been at Soldier Field for 50 years, but the city of Chicago is trying to convince them to stay.

The proposal calls for the construction of a domed stadium that could cost as much as $2 billion.

There are three options for building a dome.

The first would completely enclose the stadium by rebuilding the end zones with columns.

Both end zones need to be rebuilt with columns to make the stadium dome- ready.

Modifications to Soldier Field would allow it to host soccer games, as well as major concerts and other events, while making it a viable location.

A world-class visitor experience will be delivered by an improved Soldier Field. Changes to Soldier Field will allow it to retain its role as an economic engine for Chicago for years to come, as these changes will allow us to keep bringing sports, music and other exciting events to our city.

The proposal would increase seating at Soldier Field from 61,500 seats to 70, increase the number of suites from 133 to 140, and increase the food and beverage space from 50,000 square feet to 200,000 square feet. The proposal would greatly increase the opportunity for major sponsorships and naming rights.

The Bears signed a $197 million purchase and sale agreement with a Louisville, Ky.-based company in September after the Arlington Park horse track was put on the market. A new stadium for the Bears could be located at Arlington Park, which is 30 miles from Soldier Field.

The only site the team is considering for a new stadium is Arlington Park, according to a statement released by the team.

While we are under contract with the seller of that property, we are not pursuing alternative stadium deals or sites, including renovations to Soldier Field. As we continue our due diligence and pre development activities on the Arlington Heights property, we have informed the City of Chicago that we will honor our contractual commitments. We are still committed to fulfilling our permit operating agreement at Soldier Field.

According to the Bears, they stood by their previous statement.