Illinois Lawmakers, Bears Make Progress in Stadium Talks

Negotiations advance on new Arlington Heights stadium

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Illinois lawmakers and the Chicago Bears have made progress in their negotiations over a new stadium in Arlington Heights, according to a report from Fox-32 political reporter Paris Schutz. The two sides have reached a deal in principle on a couple key issues that had previously created a stalemate.

Why it matters

The Bears' potential move from Soldier Field in Chicago to a new stadium in Arlington Heights has been a major political and economic issue in Illinois. The negotiations involve public funding and tax incentives that could impact state and local budgets.

The details

In an interview on the Spiegel & Holmes Show, Paris Schutz detailed how the Bears and Illinois lawmakers have advanced their negotiations on a new stadium in Arlington Heights. The two sides have reached an agreement in principle on several previously contentious issues, clearing the way for further progress on the deal.

  • The interview with Paris Schutz aired on February 10, 2026.

The players

Paris Schutz

A political reporter for Fox-32 in Chicago.

Chicago Bears

The professional American football team based in Chicago, Illinois.

Illinois Lawmakers

The elected officials in the state government of Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“Illinois lawmakers and the Bears have made progress in their Arlington Heights stadium negotiations.”

— Paris Schutz, Political Reporter (Spiegel & Holmes Show)

What’s next

The next step in the negotiations will be for the Bears and Illinois lawmakers to finalize the details of the stadium deal, including any public funding or tax incentives.

The takeaway

The progress in the stadium negotiations between the Bears and Illinois lawmakers represents a significant development in the team's potential relocation from Soldier Field in Chicago to a new facility in Arlington Heights. However, many key details still need to be worked out before a final agreement can be reached.