Chicago Fire FC to Break Ground on New Stadium at The 78
The Chicago Fire soccer team will break ground next week on its new stadium, which will be part of The 78 development situated along the Chicago River. The project is anticipated to be a state-of-the-art venue and provide a boost to the local economy.
- The new stadium for the Chicago Fire will be located within "The 78," a 62-acre megadevelopment situated between the South Loop and Chinatown. This new development aims to become Chicago's 78th official neighborhood. - The stadium is projected to cost approximately $650 million and will be privately financed by team owner Joe Mansueto, the founder of Morningstar. It is designed by the architectural firm Gensler and will have a capacity of around 22,000. - Construction on the stadium is expected to commence in early 2026, with a target completion date for the 2028 Major League Soccer season. - The 78 development is a multi-billion dollar project that will transform a former railyard. The master plan, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, includes residential units, of which 20% will be affordable housing, along with commercial and retail space. - A key feature of The 78 will be the extension of the Chicago Riverwalk, which will connect the neighborhood to downtown and surrounding areas like Chinatown. The development will also include a new water taxi stop. - The University of Illinois' Discovery Partners Institute, a center for technology and innovation, will also be a part of The 78 development. - To improve accessibility to the new neighborhood and stadium, plans are in place for a new CTA Red Line station at 15th and Clark streets. Additionally, the Wells-Wentworth Connector road project is underway to better link the area with Chinatown. - The Chicago Fire have played at several venues throughout their history, including their most recent home at Soldier Field, as well as SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview and Cardinal Stadium in Naperville.
