Exciting News: Washington Commanders Set to Return to DC with $3.7B RFK Stadium Deal Approved!

The D.C. Council has officially approved the plan to build a new stadium for the Washington Commanders at the old RFK Stadium site. This $3.7 billion deal marks a significant return for the team, which last played in Washington, D.C., at RFK Stadium before moving to Landover, Maryland, in 1997.

This decision comes after years of negotiations and many ups and downs. The council voted 11-2 in favor of the deal, which closes a chapter in a political saga that has included involvement from various leaders, including President Trump.

Earlier this year, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Commanders officials announced the deal, but concerns about communication and certain terms arose from some council members. Negotiations continued until a revised agreement was accepted in August. Right before the final vote, however, additional amendments were proposed, causing frustration for the team.

Mark Clouse, the Commanders’ president, expressed disappointment in the timing of these last-minute proposals, saying they could threaten the deal’s success. Some of these amendments included new taxes and penalties related to housing deadlines. While several were rejected by the council, all that mattered was achieving the necessary votes to move forward.

Council Chair Phil Mendelson assured supporters that the votes were there, but acknowledged the tension. In the end, council members rallied behind the project, emphasizing the importance of the team returning to its historic home.

In a statement, Commanders Managing Partner Josh Harris highlighted how this project could bring significant economic benefits to the city. The team is set to invest $2.7 billion, while D.C. will contribute about $1 billion, making it the largest private investment in the city’s history.

What’s in Store

The centerpiece of the project will be a 65,000-seat stadium designed for year-round events. This stadium will occupy only 11% of the 180-acre site. The development plans also envision thousands of new housing units, with a commitment to 30% affordable options. Additional projects will include new restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.

The new stadium signifies not just a homecoming for the Commanders, but a transformative project for the area. As Council Member Kenyan McDuffie stated, “I can’t wait to cut the ribbon in 2030.”

Historical Context

The push for a new stadium has been long and complex. Initially, there were multiple contenders in D.C., Virginia, and Maryland eager to woo the team. The federal government owned the RFK land, making negotiations tricky. Recent events, however, led to Congress transferring control of this land to D.C. in late 2024. This paved the way for the current proposal, which emerged relatively quickly.

In 2022, the team considered a site in Virginia, showcasing the urgency to find a new home. But the RFK Stadium site has always held a special place in the hearts of fans. The Commanders enjoyed great success in the 1980s and 1990s, and many hope to rekindle some of that magic.

This project not only brings back the excitement of football to the district but is also a stepping stone for further development and revitalization of the area around RFK Stadium. As it draws closer to reality, many community members are hopeful that the new Commanders’ home will lead to economic growth and community engagement in the years to come.

For more specifics, you can check out the latest reports on this development at WTOP.

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