By Shirleen Guerra | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – The Washington, D.C. Council voted Friday to approve a redevelopment plan for the former RFK Stadium site that would bring the Washington Commanders back to the District, authorize a new city-owned stadium, and commit more than $675 million in public bond funding toward infrastructure and construction.
The measure passed 9–3 on first reading and will require a second vote before it can take effect. If finalized, the plan would allow construction of a football stadium, new parking facilities, and a mixed-use development including up to 6,500 housing units on 180 acres along the Anacostia River.
As The Center Square previously reported, the city projects more than $670 million in direct fiscal benefit from stadium operations over 30 years, excluding broader economic impact from housing and commercial development.
In a written statement following the vote, Mayor Muriel Bowser said, “The era of a crumbling sea of asphalt on the banks of the Anacostia is finally coming to an end.” She described the project as a long-term investment in housing, youth recreation and job creation.
“With the Commanders as our partner, we will deliver jobs and opportunity when our city needs them most,” Bowser wrote. “And we will build a campus that makes our city proud for generations of Washingtonians to come.”
The bill allows up to $500 million in infrastructure bonds and $175 million in stadium parking bonds, with another $181 million in bond financing issued through Events DC.
The bonds would be repaid through redirected revenue from the city’s Sports Facilities Fee and a 4.25 % tax surcharge on stadium ticket sales and other purchases, excluding food and beverages.
A fiscal impact statement from Chief Financial Officer Glen Lee confirmed that the financing plan fits within the city’s budget through 2029 and does not exceed the District’s debt cap.
The legislation includes a required $50 million Community Benefits Agreement to be finalized within 90 days, targeting investments in youth programs, workforce development and public access to the site. Stadium and parking parcels would be exempt from real estate and deed taxes while under lease.
Affordable housing must be delivered on a set schedule, with financial penalties if deadlines are missed. The project’s development milestones run through 2040.
The bill drew opposition from councilmembers Matthew Frumin, Robert White and Brianne Nadeau, who raised concerns about enforcement provisions and public costs. The remaining nine members voted in favor.
A second and final Council vote will be required before the legislation can take effect.
