Prince George’s County could be the new home to the professional soccer team D.C. United, after team and county officials last week announced a plan to build a stadium projected to cost between $180 million and $195 million and be partially financed by bonds.
Maryland Sen. Anthony Muse and Delegate Melony Griffith introduced legislation, which will be considered by the Legislature in coming weeks, that will enable the Major League Soccer team to make the move to Maryland.
“We are very pleased at the possibility of D.C. United joining the Prince George’s County community,” said county Executive Jack Johnson. “This is a great opportunity that will create much-needed economic stimulus during tough times, create over 1,000 jobs, and connect our neighborhoods with the first-class shopping, restaurants and entertainment that we deserve.”
The Maryland Stadium Authority would build the new facility, which is expected to generate $65 million to $80 million annually based on a study completed last year.
Officials said it is too early to speculate the amount of bonds that will be used. The 24,000-seat stadium also will be funded by D.C. United and new revenue generated by the team and its venue.
D.C. United currently plays in the 47-year-old RFK Stadium in the District of Columbia. District officials had been negotiating to build a stadium for the team on a waterfront development, but no deal was ever entered.
D.C. United is considering seven stadium sites in the county — five of them at or near Metrorail stops — and will be working with county leaders and the community to select the best location possible. The team said it is aiming to break ground in 2009 and complete work in time for the beginning of the 2012 season.
