On April 14, 2007, the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) selected Chicago as the U.S. Bid City for the 2016 Games. Chicago will now compete with other international cities for the honor of being the official 2016 Host City
The final decision on which international city will host the 2016 Games will be made in October 2009.
Chicago is built on a bold tradition of dreams that we turn into reality. From rebuilding our city to even greater glory after the 1871 Fire, hosting the World's Columbian Exposition and the 1933 World's Fair and transforming an old rail yard into Millennium Park, dreaming and achieving is part of Chicago's DNA.
In the words of Daniel Burnham, the pioneering architect of the World's Columbian Exposition who embodies the spirit of Chicago, "Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood. Make big plans; aim high in work and hope. Remember that our children and grandchildren are going to do things that will amaze us." As the grandchildren and great grandchildren of the Burnham generation it is our time to build a legacy for Chicago that will stand the test of time for the next 100 years.
Our vision is intended to stir the soul of world: The Chicago 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games will use sport as a catalyst to demonstrably strengthen the Olympic Movement. Our Games will inspire young and old, Chicagoans and citizens around the world.
With our plan for a compact Games, Chicago's accessible world class infrastructure, and enthusiastic multicultural community, athletes and the world can come together to rejoice in sport and strengthen the Olympic movement.