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CHICAGO, IL–Chicago Fire FC’s new stadium earned approval from the Chicago City Council on Thursday evening. The unanimous vote by the council paves the way for the Fire’s proposed new 22,000-seat stadium among other amenities to be built along the Chicago River south of Roosevelt Road in a new neighborhood dubbed “The 78”.
City Council members, without debate, unanimously passed a zoning amendment allowing the new stadium to be built. Fire owner Joe Mansueto, a Chicago native who bought the Fire in 2019, hopes the soccer-only, privately-funded stadium will be ready in time for the 2028 season.
The 62-acre site at Roosevelt and Clark will encompass more than 1,400 feet of publicly accessible riverfront space, a new water taxi stop, 1½ miles of bike trails, Divvy bike stations, two temporary surface parking lots, public parking and 3 acres of sports fields, according to developer Related Midwest’s plans.
“We’re grateful to have received City Council’s approval for our new stadium, a transformative project that will anchor Chicago’s newest neighborhood, The 78,” said Dave Baldwin, president of business operations. “We’re grateful to the residents, community members, and public leaders whose support and input have shaped this project. With their partnership, we remain on track to open in time for the 2028 MLS season. This is more than just a stadium – it’s a catalyst for the growth of both our Club and Chicago. We look forward to taking the next steps in this exciting journey and continuing to invest in the future of our great city. We’re just getting started.”
There had been mixed reaction from residents in the neighborhoods near “The 78” given the quick timeline from the initial announcement to Thursday’s vote. Community organization leaders said at the Plan Commission meeting last week that many Chinatown, Bronzeville and Pilsen residents weren’t aware of the project, while a majority of polled Near South Side residents favored the stadium according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
It is set to be the first major new stadium or arena to be built in Chicago since 1994 when the United Center was built for the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bulls which was also privately-funded.
The Fire are expected to break ground this Fall and hope to move into their new stadium in time for the 2028 season with what’s expected to be two more seasons primarily at Soldier Field and SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview whenever there is a conflict with the Bears.
