### Commanders' Return to D.C.: A Historic Stadium Deal at RFK Site The Washington Commanders, an NFL team with a storied history in the nation's capital, are set to return to Washington, D.C., after nearly three decades of playing in Maryland. This monumental shift comes with a $3.6 billion agreement to construct a new stadium at the site of the former RFK Memorial Stadium, a location that holds significant nostalgia for fans. The deal, announced by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, marks a pivotal moment for both the team and the city, as it aims to revitalize the area and potentially host major events like the Super Bowl in the future. The new stadium is expected to accommodate 65,000 spectators and will include modern amenities that reflect the team's heritage and community ties [https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/washington-dcs-football-team-agrees-3-6bn-stadium-deal][https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/04/29/commanders-football-stadium-dc]. ### Structure of the Commanders' Stadium Deal 1. **Financial Overview** - The total cost of the stadium project is approximately **$3.6 billion**. - The Commanders will contribute **$2.7 billion**, while D.C. taxpayers will fund **$500 million** [https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2025/04/28/commanders-stadium-rfk-deal-details-bowser-dc]. 2. **Stadium Features** - The new stadium will feature a **roof**, which is essential for hosting events like the Super Bowl [https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/04/28/commanders-roof-super-bowl-stadium]. - It will include modern amenities and design elements that pay homage to the team's history [https://www.si.com/nfl/commanders/news/washington-commanders-shock-fans-awesome-features-in-new-3-billion-rfk-stadium]. 3. **Community Impact** - The project is part of a larger redevelopment plan for the **170-acre RFK site**, which will also include green spaces and housing [https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/apr/28/washington-commanders-stadium-dc-rfk]. - The return of the Commanders is expected to boost local economy and community engagement [https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/nfl/commanders-washington-rfk-stadium-deal-rcna203324]. 4. **Timeline and Approval** - Groundbreaking for the new stadium is anticipated to begin next year, with the stadium expected to open in **2030**, pending approval from the D.C. City Council [https://www.cleveland.com/sports/2025/04/washington-commanders-announce-stunning-4-billion-stadium-deal.html]. ### Evidence Supporting the Commanders' Stadium Deal - **Financial Commitment**: The Commanders' investment of **$2.7 billion** demonstrates a strong commitment to the project, indicating confidence in the potential success of the new stadium [https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2025/04/28/commanders-stadium-rfk-deal-details-bowser-dc]. - **Capacity and Features**: The planned **65,000-seat** capacity and roofed design align with modern stadium standards, enhancing the fan experience and making it suitable for high-profile events [https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/04/28/commanders-roof-super-bowl-stadium]. - **Community Development**: The redevelopment of the RFK site into a mixed-use area will likely provide economic benefits and improve local infrastructure [https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/apr/28/washington-commanders-stadium-dc-rfk]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for the Commanders in D.C. The Washington Commanders' return to D.C. marks a significant milestone in the franchise's history, promising to revitalize the area around the RFK Stadium site. 1. **Financial Investment**: The Commanders are investing heavily in the new stadium, with a total project cost of **$3.6 billion**. 2. **Modern Features**: The stadium will include a roof and modern amenities, enhancing the fan experience and making it a potential venue for major events like the Super Bowl. 3. **Community Revitalization**: The project aims to transform the RFK site into a vibrant community space, benefiting local residents and the economy. 4. **Future Prospects**: With groundbreaking expected soon and a projected opening in **2030**, the Commanders are poised to reclaim their place in the heart of Washington, D.C. [https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/04/29/commanders-football-stadium-dc][https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/nfl/commanders-washington-rfk-stadium-deal-rcna203324].