DC Council Approves RFK Stadium Deal for Commanders

The Washington Commanders are advancing a redevelopment deal to build a new stadium at the RFK site in Washington, D.C., with the D.C. Council approving the first of two votes by a 9-3 margin. The deal, described by Mayor Muriel Bowser as the largest economic agreement in D.C. history, involves $2.7 billion in private funding from the team and over $1 billion in taxpayer contributions, and includes plans for a 65,000-seat domed stadium, 6,000 new housing units with 1,800 affordable homes, and significant retail and infrastructure development. The Commanders have made concessions on taxes, parking, union jobs, and transportation improvements to address council concerns, while some members remain opposed or seek stricter penalties for construction delays, particularly related to the mixed-use housing component expected by 2040. The final vote is scheduled for September 17, with the council requiring agreement on more stringent penalties before giving full approval. Team ownership, led by Josh Harris, is determined to complete the deal and start construction in time for the 2030 season. Despite some opposition from councilmembers and residents, the project is viewed as a major opportunity to restore the Commanders' historic connection to the city and bring substantial economic and community benefits.