Washington, D.C. Approves Stadium Deal for Commanders

Owner Josh Harris expressed enthusiasm for what he called a “D.C. Historic Day” after the Washington, D.C. Council finalized a significant $3.7 billion agreement to bring the Commanders back to the capital. This came following an 11-2 vote, which successfully cleared the final step with the council, sending the bill onward to Mayor Muriel Bowser for her signature.

The plan includes constructing a new stadium and a complex of developments on the site of the former RFK Stadium, the team’s home from 1961 to 1996.

After leaving for Landover, Maryland, in 1997, the team has since been playing at what is now Northwest Stadium. Authorities hope for the new venue to be ready by 2030.

“With this council approval, we can move forward with our transformative RFK projects that promise lasting economic growth for our cities,” Harris remarked. He also emphasized the teamwork involved, acknowledging Mayor Bowser, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, and various community leaders whose insights shaped the initiative.

“We are thrilled to return to D.C. and look forward to officially bringing the team back to its spiritual home in 2030,” he added.

Mayor Bowser took to social media to emphasize the vote’s importance, calling it “the final step towards securing a future at the new RFK Stadium.”

The council had initially given preliminary approval last month. As part of the contract, the Commanders have committed $2.7 billion towards the development, which will feature a 65,000-seat stadium as the centerpiece, along with residential units and a sports complex.

There will also be efforts to attract entertainment venues, restaurants, and hotels around the stadium, creating a vibrant area that enhances the community.