Two prominent sports architecture firms with impressive portfolios spanning major markets across the United States are now vying for the opportunity to design the new stadium for the Washington Commanders at the former RFK Stadium site in Washington, D.C. The competition involves industry giants HKS and HNTB, both of which have established themselves as leaders in professional sports venue construction.
According to sources who spoke with WTOP, the District of Columbia is currently engaged in discussions with both firms as demolition work continues at the historic RFK Stadium location. HNTB brings significant NFL experience to the table, having designed and built Allegiant Stadium for the Las Vegas Raiders and Levi's Stadium for the San Francisco 49ers. Meanwhile, HKS boasts an equally impressive resume, serving as the architectural force behind some of the most recognizable stadiums in professional sports, including SoFi Stadium, which serves as home to both the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, U.S. Bank Stadium for the Minnesota Vikings, and AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys.
Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser recently made a strategic visit to Dallas, attending a Commanders game at AT&T Stadium last weekend. Speaking with NBC Washington, Bowser explained that part of her trip's purpose was specifically to examine the stadium and gather insights for the District's own project. "We know that we need a stadium that's going to take advantage of our great views, be a stadium that we can use year-round and have a great fan experience," Bowser stated, outlining the city's vision for the new venue.
The project received a major milestone last month when the D.C. Council approved the ambitious $3.7 billion stadium deal, officially authorizing the comprehensive redevelopment of the expansive 180-acre RFK campus. This approval represents a significant step forward in bringing professional football back to the nation's capital on a permanent basis.
The scope of the development extends far beyond just the stadium itself, with plans calling for a mixed-use complex that will transform the entire RFK campus area. In addition to the new Commanders stadium, the project aims to incorporate entertainment venues, retail establishments, restaurants, residential housing, and various other amenities to create a vibrant, year-round destination for both residents and visitors.
According to the city's official timeline, construction on the new Commanders stadium is scheduled to begin in fall 2027, with the grand opening targeted for 2030. This timeline allows for extensive planning, design finalization, and the complex logistics involved in constructing a modern NFL facility while ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding Southeast D.C. community, whose residents have been actively engaged in discussions about the stadium's impact on their neighborhood.
