Chicago Bears vote to proceed with Indiana relocation

(HAMMOND, Ind.) – It appears that Indiana will be home to two NFL teams in the future. 

The Chicago Bears board of directors voted to advance their stadium project in Hammond on Thursday. An exact site has not yet been determined.

“We believe a world-class stadium project in Hammond will transform the region, connecting Northwest Indiana to the South Side of Chicago through the Loop and across neighborhoods and suburbs stretching north of the city,” sad Bears chairman George McCaskey. 

The decision comes after failed negotiations between the team and Illinois officials, along with the State of Indiana offering incentives. 

Indiana Governor Mike Braun reacted to the board decision by saying an NFL franchise will bring an economic boost to Northwest Indiana. 

"We look forward to building a partnership as strong as the '85 Bears defense, creating opportunities and economic growth that will benefit our state and the Bears organization for decades to come,” Governor Braun said. 

He added, “Thank you to Speaker Huston, the legislature, and Mayor McDermott for their partnership. I also want to thank the entire Chicago Bears organization for their partnership and commitment in making this move a reality.”