DC Mayor Muriel Bowser clarified misinformation circulating online, particularly by Elon Musk, regarding the impact of Congress' year-end spending bill on a potential new stadium for the NFL's Washington Commanders. Musk erroneously claimed that the bill included $3 billion for a new football stadium, which Mayor Bowser refuted.
The spending bill actually includes a provision to transfer control of the land, including the old RFK Stadium, from the federal government to the District for 99 years. This transfer is crucial for the Commanders to potentially build a new stadium at the franchise's former home, although other locations in the District, Maryland, and Virginia are still under consideration.
Mayor Bowser emphasized that there are no federal funds allocated for the stadium transfer and that the legislation does not mandate or link to stadium construction. The focus is on revitalizing the area and removing blight.
Elon Musk reposted the false report about the $3 billion and expressed opposition to taxpayer funding for the project.
Meanwhile, Mayor Bowser celebrated the commencement of an $800 million renovation project for the NHL's Capitals and NBA's Wizards' arena. The renovation marks a significant investment in the city and secures the teams' continued presence in DC.
The Commanders have been exploring new stadium sites since 2023, with recent lobbying efforts by team owners and NFL officials to secure the RFK Stadium land provision in the spending bill.
Mayor Bowser stressed the importance of the legislation in revitalizing the RFK area, which has been neglected for years. She highlighted the bipartisan support for the bill as a crucial step in enhancing the nation's capital.
The project includes a substantial public-private partnership, with Monumental Sports contributing a significant portion of the funding. The renovation is expected to span three seasons and promises to enhance the experience for players, fans, and the city.
Overall, the efforts to revitalize the sports infrastructure in DC reflect a commitment to enhancing the city's appeal and creating a vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike.
