Arlington City Council voted Tuesday night to approve up to $273 million for maintenance and upgrades at AT&T Stadium while extending the Dallas Cowboys’ lease for another 15 years.
In the 7-2 decision, council members authorized the use of existing voter-approved venue taxes — a half-cent sales tax, hotel occupancy tax and rental car tax — with no impact on the city’s general fund or new taxes. The Cowboys will contribute at least $750 million toward improvements, which must be completed by 2043. The new Master Agreement keeps the team at the stadium through 2055, extending the current lease that was set to expire in 2040.
The funds will support security upgrades, traffic flow, pedestrian safety and overall operations at the 15-year-old venue. The Cowboys will handle design and day-to-day management while continuing annual lease payments and charitable contributions to the city.
AT&T Stadium has been a major economic engine since opening in 2009, generating about $324 million a year for Arlington. City leaders say the partnership ensures the facility stays competitive and continues to host major events.
Some residents voiced frustration at the meeting, arguing the decision should have gone to voters in a referendum. Council members noted the venue taxes were already approved in prior elections for sports-related projects.
The agreement marks the third time Arlington has used those taxes to support a professional sports venue.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
In the 7-2 decision, council members authorized the use of existing voter-approved venue taxes
In the 7-2 decision, council members authorized the use of existing voter-approved venue taxes
