The Dallas Cowboys plan to begin a multiyear renovation of AT&T Stadium in 2028, with the project expected to cost about $1 billion. The team will contribute $750 million, while Arlington plans to fund $273 million through special revenue bonds. Work is expected to continue through 2043, with much of it focused on safety and security.
Key takeaways
The project combines team and city funding and is designed to improve the stadium without relying on highly visible additions.
- The Cowboys will provide $750 million toward the renovation.
- Arlington will commit $273 million through special revenue bonds over 20 years.
- Improvements are scheduled to begin in 2028 and continue through 2043.
- Safety and security upgrades are expected to make up much of the work.
A long-term renovation plan
The Cowboys and Arlington say the upgrades are not expected to bring many flashy or obvious new features. Instead, the work will largely focus on enhancements to safety and security, with improvements phased in over the years leading up to 2043.
The combined contributions total about $1.023 billion. The city’s planned share will be financed through special revenue bonds, spread across a 20-year period.
Economic impact cited by Arlington
Arlington Mayor Jim Ross has estimated that the Cowboys generate about $324 million in annual economic impact for the city. According to the Dallas Business Journal, Ross said that figure amounts to more than $9 billion over 30 years.
Stadium debt paid off ahead of schedule
The renovation plan follows the completion of the stadium’s original public financing. Arlington voters approved a bond package for the stadium’s initial construction in 2004, and the first bonds were issued in 2005.
The city said it paid off that original bond debt 10 years ahead of schedule, saving more than $150 million in interest and fees.