South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority Celebrates Hammond, Indiana Being Chosen as Preferred Site for New Bears Stadium

The South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority (South Shore CVA) today celebrated the Chicago Bears’ announcement selecting Hammond, Indiana, as the preferred site of the team’s future stadium, calling the decision a transformational milestone for Northwest Indiana’s economy, identity, future growth and national visibility.

“This is a historic moment for Hammond, Lake County and all of Northwest Indiana,” said Phil Taillon, President and CEO of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority. “We are grateful for the leadership of Governor Mike Braun, Speaker Todd Huston, the entire Indiana General Assembly, and also Mayor Tom McDermott and the City of Hammond, whose vision and commitment helped make this opportunity possible. The Chicago Bears choosing Hammond as the preferred site is more than a stadium announcement—it is a powerful statement about our region’s potential. This project will elevate Northwest Indiana onto a national stage, drive tourism and investment, and create new opportunities for our communities, businesses and residents while also creating jobs and attracting new talent to the region.”

The stadium and surrounding development are expected to generate significant economic impact across the South Shore, supporting hotels, restaurants, attractions, transportation and local businesses throughout the region. Beyond game days, the venue will position the region as a premier destination for concerts, major sporting events, conventions and year-round tourism.

“The South Shore has always been a place of innovation and community pride,” Taillon added. “This development accelerates our transformation into a premier Midwest destination, where sand meets steel and world-class experiences meet authentic communities. We look forward to working with local leaders, partners and the Bears organization to ensure this project benefits the entire region.”

With a new future for Northwest Indiana on the horizon, the South Shore CVA will work with community stakeholders to promote the region as a destination for visitors, fans and event planners, highlighting the region’s unique blend of lakefront recreation, the Indiana Dunes, diverse dining, gaming, shopping, cultural festivals and family-friendly attractions.