Washington Commanders Eyeing 3 Virginia Locations

The Washington Commanders are reportedly considering three Virginia locations for their proposed domed stadium and surrounding entertainment district.

In mid-February, both houses of the Virginia General Assembly passed separate bills that put the team one step closer to building a stadium in the state. If legalized, the combined bill would create a football stadium authority to oversee the potential project.

Now, the team is looking at one location in Loudoun County and two in Prince William County — one in Woodbridge and one in Dumfries. All three are no less than 27 miles from the Capitol, but the list of developments clarifies why so much space is needed.

• 700,000-square-foot stadium
• New training facility
• Three outdoor fields
• 92,000-square-foot indoor field
• Team offices and parking

State Senate Majority Leader Richard L. Saslaw (D) described the project as a “mini-city.” According to the planning documents for all three locations, a resort, conference center, amphitheater, cinema, nightclub, and family-friendly venue are all slated. Dumfries’ plan includes a marina attached to the resort.

Saslaw noted that the team would have to invest roughly $2 billion for the surrounding development. The Commanders’ contract at FedEx Field ends in 2027.

Commanders’ Commute

The Loudoun County site is in Sterling, the only proposed location accessible to the Metro. Some lawmakers have reportedly discussed expanding the mode of public transportation. The other two locations would still need approval from the Prince William Board of County Supervisors.