Commanders’ $3.7 Billion Stadium Deal Approved by D.C. Council

September 18, 2025

The D.C. Council has approved a $3. 7 billion development package that will bring the Washington Commanders football team back to the District with a new 65,000-seat stadium at the former RFK Stadium site. Mayor Muriel Bowser described this as "the largest economic development project in D.C. history," which includes over $1 billion in taxpayer funding for infrastructure and amenities.

Who is affected

D.C. residents, particularly those in Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8
Washington Commanders team and fans
Local businesses near the development site
Low-income neighborhoods receiving community benefits
Youth who will use the new sports fields and facilities
Taxpayers funding the $1+ billion in infrastructure

What action is being taken

The D.C. Council is approving a $3.7 billion development package
Over $1 billion in taxpayer funding is being allocated for infrastructure, utilities, parking, and recreation facilities
The Commanders are committing to preserve heritage trees and adopt higher efficiency standards in construction
Funds are being directed to low-income neighborhoods for rental assistance, homeownership programs, and small-business grants
A 65,000-seat stadium and mixed-use development are being planned at the old RFK Stadium site

Why it matters

This represents "the largest economic development project in D.C. history" according to Mayor Bowser
The plan will create thousands of jobs for D.C. residents
It includes building 6,000 new homes, addressing housing needs
The project returns the Commanders football team to the District after years away
Environmental protections for the Anacostia River and Kingman Island are included
Community benefits target economic support for low-income neighborhoods

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer