Why It Matters
Prince George’s County officials authorized financing for a proposed 6,000-seat Sphere entertainment venue at National Harbor. The project would use county-backed bonds, tax revenue and state funding to support a facility projected to generate billions of dollars in economic impact.
What Happened
The Prince George’s County Council voted 8-0 Tuesday to approve up to $215 million in special obligation bonds for the proposed Sphere project. Sphere Entertainment Co. would repay the bonds to the county over time.
The financing package includes a $40 million county parking garage and $130 million in county bond financing. Tax revenue generated by the facility would be used to repay the financing, while the state has contributed more than $13 million.
The final agreement also includes labor provisions. A labor peace agreement would allow union groups to organize workers at Sphere after it opens, but the agreement does not include protections for construction workers. The deal also establishes a community benefits fund.
County Executive Aisha Braveboy held a news conference after the vote. She said the project would position Prince George’s County for investment, entertainment, technology and innovation, and compared its projected tax revenue with losses tied to the Washington Commanders’ planned departure and the closure of Six Flags.
By the Numbers
$215 million — maximum special obligation bond financing authorized by the council
$1.4 billion — proposed Sphere entertainment venue cost
8-0 — council vote
6,000-seat — proposed venue capacity
$1.3 billion — projected economic impact to Prince George’s County
$1.5 billion — projected economic impact to Maryland
$63 million annually — projected property, sales and amusement tax revenue
$40 million — county parking garage cost
$130 million — county bond financing
More than $13 million — state contribution
Early 2030 — hoped-for opening date for shows
Zoom Out
The proposed Sphere would join other major entertainment and development projects associated with the region, including the Washington Commanders, Six Flags and Konterra. The county’s projections include both local and statewide economic effects, along with annual tax revenue from the facility.
What’s Next
A groundbreaking ceremony is being scheduled. Officials have hoped the venue will begin hosting shows in early 2030.