🏟️ What’s next for Soldier Field?

The Future of Soldier Field

As the Chicago Bears consider moving away from their longtime stadium, Park District officials have proposed a $630 million improvement plan to reimagine the space as a year-round concert and event venue. The plan also outlines upgrades for public transit around the area, plus ideas to ease car and foot traffic. [Block Club]

• But wait: Where will the Bears even go? [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

The Chicago Roots of Modern Gospel

Chicago has staked its claim as the birthplace of modern gospel thanks to Bronzeville’s Pilgrim Baptist Church and Thomas Dorsey, its choir director for 50 years. On today’s podcast, Stacy Robinson, writer and producer of the WTTW documentary “The Birthplace of Gospel,” talks about the city’s place in music history. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

3 Shelters For Unaccompanied Minors Closing

Citing federal funding cuts, Heartland Human Care Services will close three Chicago-area shelters for unaccompanied immigrant children and lay off 145 employees. Heartland’s Rogers Park, Washington Heights, and Uptown facilities will close by April 1. The Bronzeville location will stay open. [WTTW]

Police Called on Black Congressional Candidate While Canvassing

State senator and congressional candidate Mike Simmons was canvassing at an apartment in Buena Park when a woman reported him to the police. Simmons told the woman he was “disappointed” she chose to call the police, saying they are “known to get into deadly altercations with people of color.” Simmons previously sponsored a bill that classifies police calls on Black people as a hate crime if there is no active threat. [Sun-Times]

• Meanwhile: Simmons is competing in a crowded race to replace U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky. [City Cast Chicago 💻]

Do you know Chicago’s Black history? Test yourself with our quiz!