7 things to know about Chicago Bears stadium debate – Illinois Policy

Renovations on the stadium in 2003 were supposed to be paid off with a tax on hotel stays, but the pandemic limited that revenue. The city has paid nearly $52 million since 2022 to cover the costs and $356 million in debt still remains. When considering the interest and total amount to be paid over the life of the bonds, it is closer to $534 million. The Bears team already paid their share, so the rest is entirely on Chicago taxpayers.