The Washington Commanders, a professional American football team, have appointed a three-company joint venture to lead construction of their new stadium in Washington, DC.
US construction company Clark Construction Group will work with construction and real estate development company Mortenson and local builder Smoot Construction Company of Washington, DC, in a joint venture.
The appointment comes after enabling work began at the former RFK Stadium site in June 2026. Main construction is anticipated to start in spring 2027, with completion targeted for spring 2030.
The 1.8-million-square-foot stadium will have approximately 65,000 seats and occupy 11% of the 180-acre former RFK site. The remaining land will host a wider mixed-use redevelopment plan.
HKS designs roofed stadium for former RFK site
HKS, a global architecture practice, is leading the stadium design. Conceptual renderings show a sculpted, transparent domed roof and a continuous colonnade linking the interior with the surrounding public realm.
According to HKS, the building would rise towards the north and south while maintaining a lower profile along its east–west axis, in deference to the US Capitol and nearby monuments.
The enclosed, climate-controlled stadium is planned for year-round use. The Commanders said the campus will be able to host more than 200 events annually, including American football fixtures, international sporting events, concerts, community festivals, and national celebrations.
Sustainability and advanced technology have been identified as design priorities.
Commanders commit at least $2.7bn
Under the development agreement announced in 2025, the Commanders will invest at least $2.7bn in the roofed stadium and related improvements. The DC Government described it as the largest private investment in the District’s history.
The District will provide $500m for horizontal and other non-vertical stadium costs through its Sports Facilities Fee. Separate public funding arrangements cover parking, roads, utilities, and a study of public transport provision.
The Commanders said participation by Certified Business Enterprises and the hiring of DC residents would be prioritised during construction.
Matt Haas, head of construction at the Washington Commanders, said the joint venture was selected for its stadium experience, regional presence, and approach to local participation.
Between them, the three contractors have experience of projects including Nationals Park and Capital One Arena in Washington, as well as Allegiant Stadium and U.S. Bank Stadium.
Draft plan proposes six districts across RFK campus
Much of the development proposed around the stadium remains at the planning stage.
A draft master plan published by the DC Office of Planning divides the 180-acre campus into six districts. It identifies capacity for between 5,500 and 6,500 homes, with at least 30% designated as affordable housing.
The plan also includes commercial space for retail, hotels, and offices, together with parks, recreation facilities, new roads, and improved access to the Anacostia River.
The document will guide future land use, zoning, design, and infrastructure decisions across the campus. It does not constitute a final construction plan for the surrounding development.
Images: Courtesy of HKS
