The Commanders Return Home!
Great news for American football fans in the capital. The D.C. Council has approved a crucial agreement that will allow the Commanders to return to the heart of the city, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. The council vote, with a result of 9-3, paves the way for the construction of a new stadium on the historic site where the franchise lived its best moments. Although a second vote is required on September 17, sources close to the process indicate that the team can move forward with its plans, anticipating the same result. The agreement establishes the construction of a stadium at the location of the former RFK Stadium, home of the Commanders from 1961 to 1996. This 174-acre project will be transformed into a mixed-use complex, which will include housing, a sports center, and retail stores.After the vote, joy erupted in the hall, especially among the staff members of D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. The festive atmosphere lasted several minutes, culminating a nearly three-hour session where council members debated amendments and expressed their support or rejection of the project.“This is a historic moment,” declared Commanders owner Josh Harris. “This project goes beyond building a world-class stadium worthy of our players, fans, and the region. It’s about revitalizing a crucial part of our city, creating thousands of jobs, and unlocking long-term economic benefits for the District. We look forward to working with our fans, residents, community leaders, and elected officials to make this vision a reality.”
Josh Harris, Commanders Owner
The Commanders will invest $2.7 billion in the construction of the stadium, covering any cost overruns, while the district will contribute $1 billion. The team is aiming for the year 2030 for the stadium’s opening, largely to be able to host major events such as the Women’s World Cup in 2031. The stadium will be covered, and although a retractable roof hasn’t been ruled out, the cost of one, along with the potential benefits, will likely make it prohibitive, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. The return to the district was a remote possibility just two years ago, but a series of key events changed the landscape: the sale of the team by Dan Snyder, the purchase by Harris in July 2023, and the leasing of federal land to the district by Congress for the next 99 years. The final agreement also included last-minute negotiations with council members. Council President Phil Mendelson announced at a press conference that the renegotiated terms would generate around $779 million for the city over 30 years, coming from revenue and/or savings in other costs. Parking revenue was also renegotiated, allowing the district to apply an 18% tax, similar to other parking lots, which will be used for stadium maintenance.“This agreement is important because it strengthens the opportunity for our residents and small businesses to participate in the economic growth that will occur,” said council member Kenyon McDuffie.
Kenyon McDuffie, Council Member
