Washington Commanders Secure Key Approval for $3.7 Billion RFK Stadium Return

The Washington Commanders have made a key legislative advancement in their effort to return to the historic RFK Stadium site in Washington, D.C., following the D.C. Council’s approval of a revised stadium development plan on August 2, 2025. The measure passed in a 9-3 vote, marking the first of two required approvals to move the project forward [1]. The plan entails a $3.7 billion to $3.8 billion redevelopment that includes a new 65,000-seat stadium and a broader mixed-use complex [2], with $1.1 billion in public funding from the city [3]. The approval clears a major regulatory hurdle, with a final city council vote scheduled for September 17 [4].

The project, which was negotiated between Commanders owner Josh Harris and Mayor Muriel Bowser in April 2024, aims to transform 180 acres of land along the Anacostia River into a stadium, housing, green space, and a sportsplex [5]. The Commanders currently play at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, but the team’s return to D.C. is expected by 2030 [6]. Harris described the council’s approval as a “transformational” step for the city and for the team, emphasizing RFK Stadium’s emotional significance in the team’s history and its potential to inspire a new generation of fans [7].

While the initial vote passed, it was not without reservations. Councilmember Robert White Jr. proposed three amendments, one of which—calling for stronger penalties if the team fails to meet development commitments—received a sympathetic response from the council [8]. Councilmember Charles Allen, who supported the bill, stressed that the council will continue to work on improvements before the final vote [9]. He and others emphasized the need for accountability to ensure that the team fulfills its promises to the community.

Councilmembers Zachary Parker and Janeese Lewis George supported the measure after announcing that a contract agreement between the Commanders and union partners had been signed [10]. This development likely helped to build confidence in the team’s commitment to the project. The ownership group led by Harris has evaluated potential locations in Washington, Maryland, and Virginia since acquiring the team from Dan Snyder in 2022 [11]. The transfer of RFK Stadium land to the city was enabled by a bill passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden in early 2025 [12].

The project has drawn both support and criticism. Proponents highlight the potential for economic revitalization, while critics have raised concerns about the use of public funds for private development. Despite these concerns, the initial approval signals strong momentum for the plan to proceed.

The development also occurs amid political tensions. Donald Trump has threatened to block federal support for the project unless the team reverts to its former name, the Redskins [13]. Councilmember Anita Bonds acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing the importance of passing the legislation quickly to avoid potential federal intervention under the new administration [14]. She stressed that without timely approval, the city risks losing its stake in the project.

With the first legislative vote secured, the Commanders and local officials now shift focus to the final city council approval and the subsequent construction timeline. The project is expected to serve as a central hub for sports, entertainment, and local commerce in Washington [15]. If approved, it will represent one of the most significant developments in D.C.’s urban planning and sports infrastructure in recent years.

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Sources:

[1] [Commanders, Bowser take victory lap after council ...](https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/aug/3/washington-commanders-muriel-bowser-take-victory-lap-council-approves/)

[2] [Commanders stadium deal alive with D.C.'s initial approval](https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/08/03/commanders-stadium-deal-alive-with-dcs-initial-approval/)

[3] [NFL Commanders win key vote in quest for new stadium](https://sport.timesofmalta.com/2025/08/02/nfl-commanders-win-key-vote-in-quest-for-new-stadium/)

[4] [D.C. Council OKs RFK Redevelopment; Final Approval Set ...](https://www.tantvnews.com/dc-council-oks-rfk-stadium-redevelopment-commanders-return/)

[5] [Washington Commanders edge closer to $37 billion stadium return despite Donald Trump threat](https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/washington-commanders-edge-closer-to-37-billion-stadium-return-despite-donald-trump-threat/ar-AA1JM2KD)

[6] [Commanders closing in on $3.7bn move after Trump ...](https://www.the-express.com/sport/american-football/179174/washington-commanders-donald-trump-nfl)

[7] [10 pictures of new $3.7 billion Commanders stadium and ...](https://www.themirror.com/sport/american-football/gallery/washington-commanders-stadium-1305357)

[8] [Washington Commenders win approval from DC Council to move back to former home RFK Stadium](https://fortune.com/2025/08/04/washington-commenders-move-back-to-dc-rfk-stadium/)