The future of D.C.? Sim City screenshot via haljackey.

Note: The image above is from Sim City, you guys. It’s not a rendering.

Councilmember Vincent Orange (D-At Large) introduced a bill today that would explore the possibility of tearing down RFK Stadium and transforming it into a massive sports and entertainment complex.

The proposed bill, “The District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Study Act of 2013,” would require the mayor to “conduct a feasibility study of the acquisition and the development” of RFK Stadium, as well as surrounding areas including Stadium-Armory and the Langston Golf Course. These areas would be revamped and turned into a 100,000-seat domed stadium complex, an 18-hole PGA championship golf course, a multimedia soundstage, the Ellsworth J. Davis Film and Photography Center, an indoor waterpark, and a hotel complex.

From Orange’s bill:

The centerpieces of Orange’s bill are the development of a new RFK stadium, a soundstage at the DC National Guard Armory, and a redesign of Langston Golf Course. The 100,000 seat domed stadium complex would provide the opportunity for the Washington football team to return to the District as well as host large scale events such as Super Bowls, Final Fours, the Olympics, and Fédération Internationale de Football Association (“FIFA”) Soccer. “RFK is an antiquated and deteriorating stadium, and with D.C. United set to relocate, RFK will become an even bigger financial drain on the city,” Orange said. “The economic opportunities and employment opportunities that would result from a state-of-the-art stadium in the District are limitless.”

A soundstage complex would make the District an attractive location for film and television
productions and the increased economic activity will support jobs for District residents. “A soundstage complex will support thousands of jobs and generate significant economic activity for the District.”

During today’s legislative meeting, Orange said this bill would bring about economic development, jobs, and growth for the city, and cited that he’s already talking with Donald Trump about it, and they both hope to get Tiger Woods involved. “This bill represents the the future of the District of Columbia,” Orange said.

And while you’re probably thinking this all sounds pretty expensive, you’re probably right. Unfortunately, Orange’s office did not have an estimate at how much the feasibility study or the actual project would cost at this time.

The bill was co-introduced by Councilmembers Jim Graham (D-Ward 1), Anita Bonds (D-At Large), Jack Evans (D-Ward 2), Yvette Alexander (D-Ward 7), and Marion Barry (D-Ward 8). The bill received no co-sponsors.