UPDATE THREE: Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson provided the following statement:

Over the last several years the Bears have stated their intentions in multiple jurisdictions, today's announcement is not surprising.

It's also not surprising that Bears officials have stated this vote does not mean a move to Hammond is a done deal.

Without a final site selection, until we see shovels in the ground in Hammond, the City will continue to engage in discussions grounded in the interests of our residents.

UPDATE TWO: Indiana senator Jim Banks provided the following statement:

This is great news for The Region! This will be an economic boom for the state of Indiana and I look forward to cheering on the Bears in Hammond.

UPDATE ONE: We are learning more details about the agreement to advance a Bears stadium deal in Hammond. The Bears posted the following statement on its X account: 

Indiana governor Mike Braun also provided the following statement:

Hoosiers, help me welcome the Chicago Bears to our great state!

We look forward to building a partnership as strong as the '85 Bears defense, creating opportunities and economic growth that will benefit our state and the Bears organization for decades to come. An NFL franchise in Northwest Indiana will be an economic boost to the entire region like we haven’t seen before.

Thank you to Speaker Huston, the legislature, and Mayor McDermott for their partnership. I also want to thank the entire Chicago Bears organization for their partnership and commitment in making this move a reality.

"Welcome to Indiana!

ORIGINAL STORY: HAMMOND, Ind. -- The Chicago Bears are now a significant step closer to finalizing plans for a new stadium.

A new report from ESPN says the team's board of directors voted to advance a stadium development in Hammond. This is the first time the board has voted on any stadium site.

Stay with ABC57 as we follow this breaking story.