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Iowa Makes Bold Bid to Lure Chicago Bears

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 10:22 GMT by The Gazette
      Locales: Iowa, Illinois, UNITED STATES

Des Moines, Iowa - February 17th, 2026 - Iowa is making headlines nationwide with an extraordinarily ambitious proposal to relocate the Chicago Bears from Illinois to the Hawkeye State. A bill currently navigating the Iowa Senate aims to authorize up to $1.5 billion in public funding for a new, state-of-the-art NFL stadium and associated infrastructure, potentially transforming Des Moines - or another Iowa city - into a burgeoning sports hub.

The initiative, spearheaded by Senator Bill Wittich (R-Anamosa), comes as the Bears' lease at historic Soldier Field in Chicago is set to expire at the end of 2026. The team's ownership has openly signaled a desire for a modern stadium to replace the aging Soldier Field, making Iowa's proactive and financially substantial offer particularly appealing. This isn't merely a renovation discussion; the Bears are reportedly seeking a completely new facility with features unavailable at their current home.

"We want the Bears, and we believe Iowa presents a compelling case," Wittich stated during a recent legislative hearing. "This is a genuine, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Iowa to catapult itself onto the national stage as a major player in the NFL." The proposal isn't just about football; it's framed as a broader economic development strategy, aiming to attract tourism, create jobs, and bolster Iowa's overall economy.

Economic Impact & Potential Locations

The projected $1.5 billion investment isn't simply for the stadium itself. The proposal includes funding for surrounding infrastructure improvements - roads, public transportation, and potentially even housing developments - designed to accommodate the influx of fans and support staff that an NFL team would bring. Economists estimate that hosting the Bears could generate hundreds of millions of dollars annually in economic activity for Iowa, through game-day spending, tourism revenue, and increased local business opportunities.

While Des Moines is being heavily discussed as the frontrunner location, other Iowa cities are also vying for the opportunity. Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, with their established university presences and existing infrastructure, have expressed interest. A key factor will be land availability and the willingness of local communities to contribute to the overall project. Detailed site studies are currently underway to assess the suitability of potential locations based on factors such as traffic flow, environmental impact, and accessibility.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite the optimistic outlook, the Iowa plan faces several significant hurdles. Land acquisition will be a complex undertaking, requiring negotiations with multiple property owners. Environmental impact studies are crucial to ensure the project aligns with Iowa's conservation efforts. Securing private investment to supplement the public funding is also essential, as lawmakers recognize that relying solely on taxpayer money is unsustainable.

The most significant criticism centers around the use of substantial public funds for a project that primarily benefits a privately-owned sports franchise. Opponents argue that these funds could be better allocated to education, healthcare, or other vital public services. "While the potential economic benefits are alluring, we must carefully consider whether this is the most responsible use of taxpayer dollars," argues Representative Sarah Jenkins (D-Iowa City). Proponents counter that the long-term economic benefits will ultimately outweigh the initial investment.

National Context & the Future of NFL Stadiums

The Bears' situation highlights a growing trend in the NFL: the demand for modern, revenue-generating stadiums. Several teams, including the Buffalo Bills and the Washington Commanders, have recently undertaken or are planning major stadium projects. These new stadiums are designed to enhance the fan experience with premium seating, luxury suites, and cutting-edge technology, allowing teams to maximize revenue streams.

The Iowa proposal is unique, however, in its interstate appeal. While teams often threaten relocation as a negotiating tactic to secure funding from their current city, actively courting a team from another state is a bolder - and riskier - strategy. If Iowa succeeds, it could set a precedent for other states looking to attract professional sports franchises.

What's Next?

The coming months will be critical. Iowa lawmakers are expected to continue refining the legislation, addressing concerns raised by critics, and actively engaging in negotiations with the Bears' ownership. The team, while remaining publicly silent, is undoubtedly evaluating Iowa's proposal alongside other potential options. A final decision is anticipated by late summer or early fall of 2026, potentially reshaping the NFL landscape and marking a new era for Iowa sports.