In a significant development for both the Washington Commanders and the local community, the District of Columbia Council has officially approved the legislation to return the Commanders to their former home at RFK Stadium. This decision, which passed with an 11-2 vote on Wednesday, marks a pivotal moment in the team's history and sets the stage for substantial economic growth in the region.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Commanders will invest approximately $2.7 billion into the new stadium and associated developments, while the city of Washington, D.C. will contribute around $1.1 billion. The redevelopment plan includes not only a new stadium but also housing, green spaces, and a comprehensive sports complex situated along the Anacostia River. Mayor Muriel Bowser, who played a crucial role in negotiating this deal, expressed her pride in bringing the Commanders home. She stated, “This will be the largest economic development project in D.C. history.”
Prior to the vote, there were concerns raised by the Commanders regarding what they termed “last-minute new demands” from the Council. Team president Mark Clouse communicated these worries in a letter obtained by the Associated Press. However, despite the tension, most proposed amendments were ultimately rejected during the voting process, and no further issues were indicated by the team.
Following the Council's approval, Josh Harris, owner of the Commanders, celebrated the decision as a historic achievement for both the team and the city. He remarked, “Today is a historic day for D.C., the Commanders organization, and our fans. With the Council’s approval, we can now move forward on the transformative RFK project that will bring lasting economic growth for our city.” Harris also emphasized the collaboration between various stakeholders that made this project possible.
The Commanders currently play at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, but they are targeting a new venue opening in 2030 at the RFK site. This location holds historical significance for the team, as it is where they celebrated three Super Bowl victories in the 1980s and 1990s. The transition was made possible when Congress passed a bill to transfer the RFK Stadium land to the city, which was signed into law by then-President Joe Biden in January.
Rep. James Comer, the Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee, praised the redevelopment plan as a "bipartisan success story." He commended the D.C. Council for their final step in turning this long-awaited vision into reality for the nation's capital. The Council had given preliminary approval to the plan last month, but a second vote was necessary to finalize the decision.
Despite extensive debates regarding accountability measures for the team, the mood during the final vote was one of celebration. Council member Matthew Frumin, who had previously opposed the bill, switched his vote to yes, stating, “It’s gonna happen. Let’s all get shoulder to shoulder and make this as great as it can be.” This sentiment reflects the community's eagerness to see the Commanders return and thrive in Washington, D.C.
With the successful passage of this legislation, the Washington Commanders are set to embark on an exciting new chapter, promising to revitalize the area around RFK Stadium while fostering economic development and community engagement.
