Proposed Move of Capitals, Wizards to Virginia Raises Concerns

The $2 Billion Project Faces Scrutiny Over Potential Impact on Transportation and Local Communities

Plans for a Northern Virginia sports arena that could move the Washington Capitals and Wizards out of downtown D.C. have drawn sharp questions from residents and elected officials about the potential impact on transportation and the local community.
The $2 billion project, announced by Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Monumental Sports & Entertainment owner Ted Leonsis, would relocate both pro sports teams to a mixed-use complex near a new Metro station in Alexandria’s Potomac Yard neighborhood.
Concerns have been raised about the potential strain on the Metro system, which is facing significant financial trouble, and the potential for increased congestion on major thoroughfares and in nearby neighborhoods on game days.
The arena proposal is subject to a nonbinding agreement and must secure enough votes to pass through both the Alexandria City Council and the Virginia General Assembly.
Ted Leonsis, owner of the teams, has a vision of a greater D.C. sports business model that has the potential for $10 billion to $15 billion in value, and an eventual IPO.