Arlington Heights Says IL House Passage Of Megaproject Bill Boosts Arlington Park Push

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Village officials said the redevelopment effort for the former Arlington Park moved forward after a megaprojects bill was approved by the Illinois House Wednesday night in Springfield.

The amended bill, intended to keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois, and build a new stadium in Arlington Heights specifically, was approved by the Illinois House by a vote of 78-32.

RELATED: IL House Approves Bears Megaproject Legislation, Moves On To Senate — Report

The bill, which the House Revenue and Finance Committee passed earlier in the day by a 15-5 vote, would give the team a long-term tax break at the Arlington Heights property.

HB910 now moves on to the Senate for a vote, which reconvenes next week.

"I'm truly encouraged by yesterday’s progress and optimistic that we can maintain this momentum as the Bill moves through the legislative approval process," Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia said. "Our belief that this property offers immense potential for the Chicago Bears, the region, and the State of Illinois, has never wavered. Now that the Bill passed the House, we're one step closer to working towards a world class site concept that is a win for our community, the team, and the region as a whole."

The village also said it will continue working with the Bears and state legislators to move the bill through the remaining approvals.

Residents can find project updates on the village website at www.vah.com/ArlingtonPark.