Chicago Fire Seem Poised to Return to Soldier Field

MLS fans rejoice - it appears that the Chicago Fire are coming back to Soldier Field (via Chicago Tribune):

The first step in the Fire’s bid to return to Chicago has been taken.

Under a tentative deal, the Fire would pay the Village of Bridgeview about $65 million to break their lease at SeatGeek Stadium, according to village spokesman Ray Hanania.

The Fire reportedly have been seeking a return to Soldier Field as early as next season. Hanania said the Fire have not indicated where they will play in 2020. The Fire wouldn’t confirm their plans.

Seems like a lot of money for an MLS team, but hey what do we know.  For the Sloop, this likely would be seen as a mixed bag.  Generally speaking, events at Soldier Field have a tendency to create traffic headaches in the neighborhood.  That being said, the Chicago Fire aren't going to draw a crowd like the Bears or a sold-out BTS concert.

So while the added amount of events could cause traffic issues, our local restaurant and bar scene would likely love the shot in the arm.  As has been discussed a lot this week (see posts about Vice Brewing and Lobo Canteen), some of the local spots have struggled.  Most argue that their troubles aren't a result of the neighborhood, but regardless more events would undoubtedly help the whole scene.

Thoughts?