News & Blog

Building Momentum for RFK Stadium Redevelopment Project

The future of RFK Stadium is moving closer to reality after September 17, when D.C. Council voted again in favor of the RFK stadium redevelopment legislation. Redeveloping RFK is not just about building a stadium; it’s about creating a 21st-century destination that reflects the values and ambitions of the District and its residents. The Board of Trade is proud to be a leading voice in shaping that future, and we will remain engaged as the process advances.  (Statement: D.C. Council final vote for redevelopment funding on Sept. 17)

This project represents more than bricks and mortar; it is a chance to reshape an iconic site into a destination that drives economic growth, improves connectivity, and enhances the quality of life across the District and region. The project will create 14,000 construction jobs and 2,000 permanent jobs, generating $4 billion in tax revenue and more than $15.6 billion in direct spending over 30 years. Spanning about 180 acres of the former RFK Stadium site, the campus will transform today’s underused riverfront parcel into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood.

 

 

Earlier this year, the Board of Trade, city officials, and other local and regional groups testified before the D.C. Council in support of legislation that would unlock the potential of the RFK site and allow the city to move forward with a transformative vision, including: 

• Letters of support were submitted to the D.C. Council outlining the opportunity to transform the District through a 65,000-seat roofed stadium for the Washington Commanders, designed to host not only football but also up to 200 annual events, including concerts and cultural gatherings.
• In initial testimony before the D.C. Council, the case was made for legislation to unlock the potential of the RFK site and advance a broader vision for redevelopment. The testimony highlighted priorities such as strong transit connections, economic competitiveness, and community benefits. Specific elements included 6,000 new housing units (with at least 30% affordable), hotel rooms, new restaurants and retail, parking, an $89 million youth sportsplex, activation of the Fields at RFK, expanded green space, riverfront access, and walkable parks. (read our testimony here)  
• Subsequent testimony supported the RFK Stadium funding bill and underscored the importance of timely action to prioritize infrastructure, affordable housing, and adherence to construction timelines. (read our second testimony here) 
• In addition, Mayor Bowser and community leaders convened engagement events, including a rally at the Wilson Building and a stakeholder event hosted by the Mayor, to highlight the redevelopment’s potential business opportunities. These gatherings drew attention to the broad community and economic impacts of this once-in-a-generation project.

Throughout the entire process, we have been in ongoing dialogue with the Washington Commanders to ensure that the project balances economic competitiveness with community needs — from workforce opportunities to improved transit access and mixed-use development that serves residents and businesses alike. With upgraded utilities, new roadways, improved transit access, and vibrant hospitality districts like the Riverfront and Plaza, the project will revitalize the site and surrounding neighborhoods. It will serve as a community anchor by blending housing, commerce, recreation, and entertainment into a powerful driver of growth for the District.

The Board of Trade will continue to champion this redevelopment as an engine of growth, connectivity, and opportunity for the entire region. We look forward to continuing conversations with the Commanders, community leaders, and stakeholders to unlock all that the RFK site has to offer.  

Learn more about how we engage with leaders at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure that the voices of Greater Washington’s business community are heard: https://www.bot.org/business-policy-greater-washington-dc/