If the Chicago Bears were to leave the city, the direct economic losses would be profound and multifaceted, impacting various sectors. Below are the primary areas where direct economic losses would be felt
1. Employment and Job Losses
Team and Stadium Staff
Coaches and Players
Staff employed directly by the Bears, including coaches, trainers, and players, would face immediate job loss. This not only affects their income but also has a ripple effect on local businesses they support.
Game Day Employees
Individuals working for the stadium, such as concession staff, maintenance workers, and event coordinators, would lose their jobs. Soldiers Field employs hundreds during the NFL season alone.
Auxiliary Employment
Local Businesses
Many businesses depend on game-day traffic. Restaurants, bars, merchandise shops, and transportation services rely on the influx of fans. With fewer or no games, these establishments would experience reduced sales, leading to further job losses.
2. Decline in Local and State Revenues
Tax Revenue
Ticket Sales and Concessions
The Bears generate substantial tax revenue for the city through ticket sales, merchandise, and food and beverage sales during games. These revenues would disappear if the team left, leading to significant financial shortfalls for local government operations.
Business Taxes
Local businesses that thrive on game-day revenues contribute significantly to sales tax collections. A loss in business would also diminish these tax receipts.
3. Tourist Expenditure Decline
Tourism Revenue
The Bears attract fans not only from the local area but also from outside Chicago, contributing to hotel bookings and tourism-related spending. Losing the team would diminish the city’s attractiveness as a sports tourism destination.
Events
Chicago often hosts events centered around the Bears, from fan meet-and-greets to NFL draft events. The absence would lead to fewer large gatherings, reducing hotel occupancy rates and spending in the hospitality industry.
4. Impact on Real Estate and Infrastructure
Property Values
Real Estate Market
Homes and businesses near Soldier Field might see a decline in property values due to reduced desirability without the Bears. The presence of a major NFL team can bolster local real estate markets, and losing that can reverse trends.
Infrastructure Investments
Stadium Development
Future infrastructure investments in and around Soldier Field may be abandoned, leading to missed opportunities for upgrades and new developments that further benefit the local economy.
5. Community and Cultural Impact
Reduced Civic Engagement
Loss of Community Identity
The Bears are not just a team; they represent Chicago’s culture and history. Their departure could lead to a decline in community pride and engagement, impacting local events and initiatives.
Social Events
Community Gatherings
The Sundays associated with Bears games include gatherings and communal experiences, fostering bonds in neighborhoods. The loss of this cultural aspect could have social ramifications for many residents.
Conclusion
The departure of the Chicago Bears would represent more than just the end of a sports team; it would lead to significant direct economic losses across employment, tax revenues, tourism, real estate, and community engagement. The long-lasting effects would reshape aspects of life in Chicago, presenting a challenge to local leaders and businesses interested in revitalizing the city’s economy.
THE CHICAGO PLUG 