Indiana lawmakers say Chicago Bears have sights set on new stadium in Hammond

(WNDU/WIFR) - The Chicago Bears are reportedly one step closer to relocating to Northwest Indiana after a legislative committee unanimously approved a bill Thursday that would help finance a new stadium.

Senate Bill 27, which creates the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, passed the House Ways & Means committee with a 24-0 vote. The bill now returns to the Indiana House for consideration.

Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston announced the Bears expressed strong interest in building a stadium in Hammond. The team has not formally announced a move.

Huston read a statement from the Bears which said:

“The passage of SB 27 marks the most meaningful step forward in our stadium planning efforts to date. We are committed to finishing the remaining site-specific necessary due diligence to support our vision to build a world-class stadium near the Wolf Lake area in Hammond, Indiana. We appreciate the leadership shown by Governor Braun, Speaker Huston, Senator Mishler and members of the Indiana General Assembly in establishing this critical framework and path forward to deliver a premier venue for all of Chicagoland and a destination for Bears fans and visitors from across the globe,” the team said. “We value our partnership and look forward to continuing to build our working relationship together.”

The Bears expanded their search for a new stadium to include northwest Indiana late last year.

Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott called the potential move “truly transformative.”

“I want to thank Governor Braun, Speaker Huston and Senator Mishler for their leadership in getting this deal done,” McDermott said. “I look forward to continuing to be a strong local partner in this project that will change Hammond and Northwest Indiana for future generations.”

Indiana Governor Mike Braun also released the following statement Thursday:

Indiana’s legislature is in session through Feb. 27. It’s unclear when or if the full House could vote.

About Hammond, Indiana:

• Hammond borders Chicago and Lake Michigan
• Hammond’s Wolf Lake is 19 miles from the Chicago Loop and an under-30-minute drive.
• Hammond was previously home to the NFL charter member, the Hammond Pros. Originally founded as the Hammond All-Stars in 1919, the Hammond Pros played in the National Football League from 1920-1926.
• George Halas, Hall of Fame Chicago Bears owner and head coach, was once on the roster for the Hammond All-Stars