The District of Columbia Council’s Committee of the Whole convened on October 22, 2026, for a public hearing on Bill 26-769, the Soccer Stadium Redevelopment and Maintenance Act of 2026. The proposed legislation, introduced by Council Chair Phil Mendelson, aims to authorize the Mayor to enter into a public-private financing agreement for the redevelopment of Audi Field, home to DC United.
The core of the bill focuses on redeveloping Audi Field through the installation of a climate-controlled roof and the addition of stadium seating, potentially increasing capacity from its current 19,200 to up to 28,000. This redevelopment is intended to accommodate Major League Soccer’s (MLS) shift to a year-round calendar beginning in 2027, which will include games played during colder months.
The proposed financing model involves contributions from both DC United and the District. DC United anticipates that the stadium enhancements will generate sufficient excess revenue to offset the District’s financial contribution. The bill also proposes the establishment of a Soccer Stadium Preservation and Improvement Fund to cover ongoing maintenance and capital expenditures for the stadium site. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for tax exemptions on excess site revenue and a commitment from DC United to develop ancillary housing, including affordable units.
During the hearing, council members and witnesses discussed various aspects of the bill, highlighting potential economic benefits alongside community concerns.
Councilmember Pinto emphasized the project’s potential to stimulate new economic activity, create jobs, and provide housing, while also supporting the growth of women’s sports. Conversely, Councilmember Allen voiced reservations about committing taxpayer funds, particularly in light of other community needs and the redevelopment of the RFK campus. Allen also raised concerns regarding the open-ended nature of the District’s financial commitment, noting the absence of a specific cap in the current language.
Residents from Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6D, representing the Southwest area where Audi Field is located, articulated significant concerns regarding traffic and safety during event days. They described challenges with pedestrian and vehicular flow, including road closures and difficulties for residents accessing their homes, and emphasized the need for improved traffic management plans.
Representatives from the Baltimore DC Metro Building Trades Council and union carpenters expressed strong support for the bill, particularly due to an agreed-upon Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that commits to a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) for the stadium redevelopment and housing construction. They highlighted the potential for creating quality union jobs for District residents, including opportunities for returning citizens and those in apprenticeship programs.
Denita Johnson, President of Business Operations for DC United, outlined the operational necessity of adapting Audi Field for the new MLS calendar, explaining that the current facility is not equipped for year-round use. She also touched upon the growing demand for both DC United and Washington Spirit games, the importance of tenant relationships, and the potential for the stadium to host a wider variety of events. Charles Alche, Executive Vice President at Major League Soccer, corroborated the league’s shift to a global calendar and the need for upgraded infrastructure to meet evolving fan expectations and player standards.
The hearing also included testimony from representatives of the Washington Spirit, Major League Volleyball, the DC Fiscal Policy Institute, and various community organizations and residents. Witnesses discussed the potential economic impacts, the viability of public investment in sports infrastructure, and the specific needs of tenants and local businesses. The Washington Spirit expressed a neutral stance on the bill as introduced, emphasizing the need for meaningful consultation and concrete protections regarding their operations, scheduling, and facilities within the redeveloped stadium.
The public comment period for Bill 26-769 will remain open until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026. The Council is expected to deliberate further on the testimony received before proceeding with potential amendments and votes.
