A proposed agreement to extend the Dallas Cowboys’ partnership with the city of Arlington through 2055 is being pitched as a major investment in the city, with more than $1 billion in planned upgrades and no new taxes.

Arlington Mayor Jim Ross said the extension would continue a long-standing relationship with the team while improving infrastructure around the stadium and surrounding area.

Ross emphasized the opportunity tied to the proposal saying “an opportunity has come up to extend our relationship with the Cowboys and that’s what we’re looking to do here.”

The proposal includes more than $1 billion in upgrades focused on security improvements, traffic flow, pedestrian safety and overall event operations.

Under the plan, the Cowboys, described as the world’s most valuable sports franchise, would invest $750 million, while the city of Arlington would contribute $273 million.

City leaders say the agreement would not create any new taxes. Instead, it would extend a half-cent sales tax that voters approved in 2004 to help bring the Cowboys from Irving to Arlington five years later.

In a statement to NBC 5, the Cowboys highlighted the history of the partnership and their vision moving forward:

“The long, impactful partnership we’ve had with the city of Arlington represents the fulfillment of a mutual vision we had years ago…the proposed extension is a reflection of our continued trust, collaboration and proactive approach to the future.”

Not all city leaders are fully on board without additional public input.

Council member Bowie Hogg said he supports the project but wants to explore whether voters should weigh in.

“I think the Cowboys stadium extension is a good project, its just how we get to a yes,” said Hogg. “We should consider is that an option to go to the voters and allow the taxpayers to have the decision.”

Ross, however, maintains the proposal aligns with previous voter approval.

“This is well within the confines of voter approval. And I’m happy that we get the opportunity to do this,” said Ross.

The Arlington City Council is expected to make its first decision on the proposal next Tuesday.

Council members may also consider requesting an opinion from the Texas Attorney General on whether voter approval is required.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC DFW. AI tools helped convert the story into a digital article, and an NBC DFW journalist edited it again before publication.