The survey touts a potential "modern, fan-first stadium experience" in northwest Indiana, with more than double the number of parking spots compared to Soldier Field, creating "one of the most robust game day tailgating environments in the NFL."
"I don't think the Chicago Bears, especially during playoff time, would waste any time on a survey if they weren't seriously looking into it, and they weren't serious about that being an option for their future home," said Democratic Indiana state Rep. Earl Harris Jr.
The Bears, in a statement, said, "As we have said, we are actively evaluating opportunities across the wider Chicagoland region for a new stadium. The survey is a standard and important step in that process, helping us understand fan interest, accessibility, and experience preferences as we assess the feasibility of a potential stadium in Northwest Indiana. We continue to do the work required to make informed, responsible, long-term decisions for our fans and our organization."
The team announced late last year that they were reconsidering plans to build a new stadium in Arlington Heights over concerns they would not get state funding for infrastructure needs.
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But adding to the intrigue, sources told ABC7 that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell toured potential Bears stadium sites in northwest Indiana and Arlington Heights over the weekend.
Arlington Heights resident Gregory Berger took a photo appearing to show Bears Chairman George McCaskey, Team President Kevin Warren, and Goodell at the former Arlington Park on Saturday afternoon.
"When I saw Roger Goodell, that's when I was like, 'This is bonkers. That's Roger Goodell,'" Berger said. "And they were doing a lot of pointing, so I have to assume, you know, speculating, but they were discussing the site."
Illinois legislative leaders are downplaying the potential Indiana move.
"Aww, I think that's just leverage. I think the Chicago Bears are an iconic institution, and they know that being in or around Chicago is a part of that," said Democratic Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch.
As for that stadium survey, the Bears say it was emailed only to season ticket holders.