WASHINGTON, D.C. — The D.C. Council took public testimony in Washington, D.C., on Friday on a $620 million proposal to put a climate-controlled roof over Audi Field and add seats, and several members signaled they are not ready to commit District money yet.
The stadium redevelopment and maintenance bill came from Council Chair Phil Mendelson, who filed it in July. It would let the mayor sign a public-private financing deal with D.C. United, with the city putting in $300 million and the club covering the remaining $320 million.
The bill would also create a fund for future upkeep and capital work at the stadium and commit the club to building housing nearby that includes affordable units. Supporters argue the bigger, covered venue would bring in enough new revenue to more than repay the public share.
Council member Silverman pointed to a looming District budget gap topping $600 million and asked why residents should cover nearly half of the cost. Neighbors raised traffic worries about Buzzard Point, the peninsula where the stadium sits. Mayor Muriel Bowser opposes the plan.
More than 50 people testified. By the end, Mendelson and several colleagues wanted more data and revisions to the bill, and a vote is not expected before the next council period, which starts next year.
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