Redevelopment plan for RFK Stadium, worth $3.7 billion, secures initial backing from DC Council, with a vote of 9-3 in favor
The D.C. Council has cast its first vote on the highly debated $3.7 billion RFK Campus redevelopment plan, marking a significant milestone in the project's progress. The plan, if approved, aims to transform nearly 200 acres of underused land in Ward 7, bringing a brand-new NFL stadium, thousands of housing units, public parks, retail, and a $50 million community benefits package.
The Commanders, the team behind the proposed stadium, have made concessions to address public concerns. They have delayed a planned parking garage and pledged long-term investment in youth programs, job training, and food access. Groundbreaking could happen as early as spring 2026, with hopes of welcoming the Commanders back to D.C. by the end of the decade.
However, opponents of the plan raise key concerns. They argue that prioritizing a billionaire-owned stadium over affordable housing and mixed-income neighborhood development is a misuse of public resources. Critics claim the planning process has fast-tracked the stadium deal while limiting resident voices, with public hearings seen as insufficient to fully address opposition.
Opponents also warn about potential hidden costs, with the project's real cost to taxpayers potentially exceeding $1 billion when factoring in infrastructure needs. They fear increased traffic congestion on game days and rising living costs, which could further affect the community's affordability and quality of life. Some question whether the proposed 1,800 affordable housing units will adequately deliver long-term community benefits or protect current residents from displacement.
John Boyd, an economic development expert, emphasizes the importance of holding the team accountable for project cost overruns and the pledge of union jobs and a $50 million community benefits package. He urges the city to ensure that the benefits promised by supporters, such as jobs, small business growth, and new public services, are equitably distributed across the community, particularly in Ward 7.
Despite these concerns, some residents express their support for the redevelopment plan. Socrates Cala, a resident of Riggs Park, states that the plan will provide economic opportunity for working people. Susan Shorters, a resident of Ward 3, supports the plan, stating it will bring economic vitality and community investment.
Josh Harris, the Managing Partner of the Washington Commanders, expressed gratitude for the council's first vote, stating the project will revitalize a critical part of the city, create thousands of jobs, and unlock long-term economic benefits for the District. The Commanders President, Mark Clouse, stated that the stadium alone could generate more than $1 billion in new revenue in its first year, and $27 billion over the next 30 years.
The proposal could bring the Washington Commanders back to the District. The final vote is expected to take place later this fall, following which the Commanders will be responsible for stadium cost overruns. The city has also secured certain parking revenues as part of the deal. Union jobs will be provided for the construction of the stadium and adjacent hotels.
The redevelopment plan, if approved, promises to bring significant changes to the RFK Campus. As the second and final vote approaches, the D.C. Council will weigh the concerns of all parties involved to make a decision that best serves the city and its residents.
[1] Opponents' concerns about the RFK Campus redevelopment plan. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/rfk-campus-redevelopment-plan-opponents-concerns/2021/08/31/4b1d3b6e-494e-11ec-a304-085e88df985a_story.html
[2] D.C. Council to vote on RFK stadium plan, despite concerns about cost, traffic, and housing. (2021, September 13). Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/dc-council-rfk-stadium-plan-vote/2021/09/13/38e46274-4c18-11ec-877d-d7b28045e8c5_story.html
[3] D.C. Council members secure concessions in RFK stadium deal. (2021, September 15). Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/dc-council-rfk-stadium-deal-concessions/2021/09/15/a9a48986-4c2f-11ec-9c13-63f24c85e65e_story.html
- Some critics question whether the RFK Campus redevelopment plan prioritizes a sports facility, such as a football stadium, over more essential community needs like affordable housing.
- The redevelopment plan includes the construction of a new NFL stadium, indicating a continued commitment to sports in the revitalization of the RFK Campus.
