Local media cover ANC 1E’s resolution submitting a public comment to the RFK Master Plan
Author: Randi Hildreth
Published: 11:25 PM EDT August 12, 2026
Updated: 11:25 PM EDT August 12, 2026
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WUSA9 Story:
As the public comment period for DC’s RFK Campus Master Plan nears its end, local ANC leaders express concerns over potential cost overruns impacting ratepayers
WASHINGTON — You have only days left to give your feedback about the recently released RFK Campus Master Plan. We’ve covered your concerns about protecting green space, parking, and transit. But local ANC leaders are raising new concerns.
From across the street – during visits to the skatepark off East Capitol Street Northeast – Jonathan Ware and Kareem Harrison have watched things change.
“Before – a couple years ago – you come here and see the big stadium. It’s just like RFK. But now, after a while of it not being here – you see a massive dirt pile,” said Harrison.
The redevelopment of RFK Stadium in DC is a reality.
“My grandfather was a big fan. He loved to come to this stadium when it was up,” said Ware.
In June, the RFK Campus Master Plan was released. It included details about the planning process, parks, open space, and street designs. It also included an all-call for people to give feedback. But, as some community members pored through the pages, it raised some red flags.
“I say cautious optimism for a reason,” said Brad Howard, ANC 1E.
Howard introduced a resolution that was approved unanimously by other 1E ANC leaders. It asks for local ratepayer protections if the RFK project goes over budget.
“We don’t want DC residents to be responsible for surprise billing or surprise costs that may arise,” said Howard.
The master plan notes the RFK project is estimated to generate 1.3 million gallons in future water demand and is expected to generate significant electricity demand. Howard says he’d like the city to push for language in the master plan that ensures developers are on the hook for costs if the project goes over budget – unless upgrades actually benefit DC residents. He says Nashville pushed for similar terms in the construction of the new stadium for the Tennessee Titans and says it’s needed in DC.
“Life in DC is too expensive as it is. Housing is too expensive as it is. Let’s not add to it by having what’s supposed to be a good thing have rates go up for utilities for families and businesses in the district,” said Howard.
The public comment period for the RFK Master Plan ends Friday, August 14.
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