<p>Downtown and Near South Side businesses and community organizations were disappointed by news the Bears plan to leave Soldier Field for Hammond, Indiana.</p><p>The move — announced Friday by Bears Chairman George McCaskey — is “a big blow not only for the city but the Near South Side,” said Bonnie Sanchez-Carlson, president of the community organization Near South Planning Board.</p><p>The Bears departing Soldier Field to build a stadium in Indiana will result in potential economic losses for Chicago, less tourism, visitor spending and future development, as well as fewer jobs, she said.</p><p>The news came “just as we’re getting excited about the Bears,” Sanchez-Carlson said.</p><p>“We respect their decision and recognize the complexity. Chicago will have to continue to pursue bold initiatives to attract investment,” she said. “The Near South Planning Board is always optimistic.
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