The DC zoning commission is "getting closer to approving" DC United's 19,000-seat, $300M stadium project for Buzzard Point, according to Karen Goff of the WASHINGTON BUSINESS JOURNAL. The commission voted 3-0-2 on Wednesday to "move the stadium plan toward final approval." The commission and team reps will "meet again on Feb. 16 to discuss final approval." In the meantime, Commission Chair Anthony Hood said he wants to see "some major work done" by the team to offer more details on transportation and environmental issues. DC United hope to "start construction" in early '17 and host their first game there in June '18, a window that is "getting tighter by the week." Hood: "I understand you are trying to open in 2018. My goal is not to disregard anyone. Let's look at some innovative ways we can take the adverse impacts off the neighborhood" (BIZJOURNALS.com, 12/15).
UNITED FRONT: In DC, Steven Goff noted DC United has "submitted an application" to the USL to own and operate a secondary squad in the DC area starting in '18. If approved, DC United would "join a growing number of MLS organizations with direct involvement in developing young players in a competitive league and running a second pro team." This year, 11 of 20 MLS clubs "fielded teams in the USL." DC United has begun a "preliminary search for a playing venue, with Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds" and the Univ. of Maryland’s Ludwig Field under consideration. The team has also "spoken with officials" at George Mason Univ. about building a 5,000-seat stadium as the centerpiece of a "permanent training facility for United's senior team, USL squad and youth academy" (WASHINGTONPOST.com, 12/15).
