DC United: Stadium Speculation Continues to Swirl Around Buzzard Point

DC United stadium plans have seen many variations over the last few years. There have been so many rumors regarding location and timing that DC United fans do not know what to believe anymore.

Further fueling speculation are the articles in the Washington Post this week concerning potential development plans for Buzzard Point near the Washington Nationals' ballpark. The article references a 20-page concept document containing plans for the stadium.

Is the Buzzard Point plan a legitimate option or another path to nowhere?

According to the article, the plans were dated July 2010 which could lead fans to believe this is a repeat of previous proposals, but United owner Will Chang did confirm Buzzard Point is a target area for a stadium last weekend.

As with any stadium plans, there are several roadblocks to overcome before the dream becomes reality. With Buzzard Point, the main sticking point appears to be the current owners of some of the targeted land in the area. The other roadblock is the all-too-common question of how to finance the stadium.

The Sporting News also reported this week on a new lease agreement between RFK Stadium and DC United keeping the team there through the 2013 season. If United want to get into a new home at the end of this lease, they will have to get things sorted out quickly to break ground in time to be ready for 2014.

It is a surprise that DC United does not yet have a soccer specific stadium. As the original premier team of MLS, DC United and their fans are deserving of a venue which demonstrates their status as the most decorated team in MLS history.  The extra revenue generated from controlling their own stadium could help propel them back among the league's elite where they belong. Here is hoping Buzzard Point or another viable stadium option comes to fruition soon.