The Chicago Bears want to build a new stadium. A move to another US state is becoming increasingly likely.

Will the Indianapolis Colts soon have a new NFL rival within their state? The Chicago Bears are planning to build a new stadium – and the chances of the state of Indiana prevailing over the current location of Illinois seem to be growing.

As Indiana Governor Mike Braun wrote in a social media post, his state is definitely open to the idea.

“Indiana is open for business, and our growth-friendly environment continues to attract great opportunities, such as this partnership with the Chicago Bears,” he said.

“We have identified a promising location near Wolf Lake in Hammond and have created a comprehensive framework for negotiating a final agreement.”

Are the Chicago Bears moving from Illinois to Indiana?

If the amendment to the bill is approved in the Senate, the framework for a partnership will be in place, subject to a smooth site review. “The state of Indiana is moving at the speed of the economy, and we have demonstrated that through our rapid coordination between state agencies, local governments, and the legislature to create the conditions for a major win for all Indiana residents,” Braun said. “We have built a strong relationship with the Bears organization that will serve as the foundation for a public-private partnership.”

NFL: Bears officials enthusiastic

The NFL team itself also released a statement on the Indiana Senate bill: “Passage would be the most significant step forward in our stadium planning efforts to date,” the Bears said.

They are determined to complete the site reviews in order to realize their “vision of building a world-class stadium near Wolf Lake in Hammond, Indiana.”

According to the statement, the goal is to create a “first-class venue for all of Chicagoland and a destination for Bears fans and visitors from around the world.” According to Pro Football Talk, Indiana would provide the Bears with a “state-owned stadium where the Bears would play.”

The Bears currently play at Soldier Field in Chicago.