DC Council Approves Commanders $3.7B RFK Stadium Plan

The Washington Commanders' plan to return to the site of the former RFK Stadium has advanced significantly after the D.C. Council approved initial legislation by a 9-3 vote, with a final vote expected in September. The $3.7 billion redevelopment deal includes a 65,000-seat stadium funded by a $2.7 billion investment from the Commanders and roughly $1 billion from the city for infrastructure and community amenities. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized that the project will transform 180 acres along the Anacostia River, bringing jobs and economic opportunity to Washington, D.C., and ending the era of a deteriorating stadium and surrounding asphalt. The deal also includes commitments from the Commanders to guarantee more union jobs, which helped secure union and council support. Commanders owner Josh Harris expressed enthusiasm about returning the team to its spiritual home, linking the new stadium to the franchise's historic successes and community legacy. Despite some council members' reservations and calls for stronger accountability measures, the project moves closer to realization, aiming for a 2030 opening and positioning the city to host major events like the 2031 Women’s World Cup.