DC residents learned more about the RFK Stadium development, which promises 30% public space and improved Anacostia River access.

WASHINGTON — Commanders Super Fans and DC residents are getting more details about the RFK Stadium development.

“Seeing what they have at the Benz and seeing what they have in Dallas, can we replicate it here. Not make it sterile. Give it that DC flavor,” said Tailgate Ted.

“Doing it right as opposed to not doing it at all is not an option any longer — so I feel good,” said Amanda Vassow. 

At Wednesday’s community meeting, people got a closer look at the latest batch of designs released to the public — plans for parks and green space — plus how the stadium project will connect to other natural attractions in this part of the District, including the Anacostia River.

“I row out the Anacostia Community Boathouse. I want to make sure we can take advantage of the improved access to the river,” said Vassow. 

Developers committed to devote at least 30% of the site to public spaces, plazas, and parks that can be used year-round.

Which some say they’d still like clarity about.

“30% open space, but not green space. Some neighbors are afraid of losing precious lawn space,” said Alex Pazmino, President of the Friends of Kingman Park Civic Association. 

Also in the vision, a redesign for Oklahoma Avenue. Protecting surrounding neighborhoods with a new traffic pattern. One of the concerns brought up in previous community feedback sessions.

St. Coletta Public Education Charter School was the host site for Wednesday’s event. The CEO says the school will have one of the biggest impacts because it’s so close to the site so he’s looking forward to continuing to work with developers.

“We’re the closest institution, school to this RFK project,” said Mike Rodrigues, CEO of St. Coletta of Greater Washington, “We’re happy to have new neighbors. We think the process is going along well at this point.” 

The stadium should be ready to greet fans by 2030.