The District of Columbia Office of Planning has released the Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Campus Master Plan, a major redevelopment blueprint that will transform the former RFK Stadium site into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood centered around a new Washington Commanders stadium.
Developed by Gensler in collaboration with Perkins Eastman, the 180-acre masterplan envisions thousands of new homes, extensive public green spaces, entertainment venues, retail, and improved transportation infrastructure along the Anacostia River. The stadium itself is being designed by HKS, while OJB is leading the surrounding landscape design.
Mixed-Use Vision for the RFK Campus
The masterplan proposes between 5,500 and 6,500 residential units, with 30% designated as affordable housing to improve access for a diverse range of residents. The development will also include approximately 6,000 structured parking spaces, alongside community-focused retail, neighborhood services, restaurants, and entertainment destinations.
Around 30% of the entire site will remain dedicated to parks, open spaces, and green infrastructure, creating a balance between urban development and public recreation.
Six Distinct Districts
The redevelopment divides the campus into six interconnected districts:
- Stadium District
- Plaza District
- Riverfront District
- Recreation District
- Kingman Commons
- Anacostia Commons
The new Washington Commanders stadium will serve as the centerpiece of the entertainment district. A large public plaza surrounding the venue will support tailgating, community events, and temporary pop-up activities.
The Recreation District will feature athletic fields and community open spaces, while Kingman Commons will introduce a new SportsPlex and additional outdoor recreational amenities.
Protecting the Riverfront
A key environmental feature of the masterplan is Anacostia Commons, which establishes a 200-foot-wide natural buffer between new development and the Anacostia River. This protected riparian zone complies with federal lease requirements and helps preserve the river’s ecological health while expanding public waterfront access.
Improved Mobility and Streetscape
Transportation improvements play a central role in the redevelopment strategy. The proposed 22nd Street corridor will become the campus’ primary multimodal spine, featuring:
- Dedicated bus lanes
- Vehicle lanes
- Protected cycling paths
- Wider pedestrian sidewalks
- Street-level restaurants and public seating
The redesigned road network aims to improve pedestrian safety while encouraging public transit, cycling, and walkability throughout the district.
Focus on Community and Equity
The District says the masterplan aligns with the 2021 District Comprehensive Plan by addressing historic planning inequities that affected neighboring Black communities.
Planning teams analyzed neighborhood data covering housing, transportation, employment, education, and food access to shape investment priorities. The redevelopment seeks to expand affordable housing, improve public spaces, and generate long-term economic opportunities for surrounding communities.
Public Review Begins
The release of the masterplan marks the beginning of a public consultation period, allowing residents and stakeholders to review the proposal and provide feedback before final planning decisions move forward.
