Stadium Watch · stadium
Arlington's $273M extension of the Cowboys lease through 2055
The Arlington City Council voted to commit up to $273 million in city funds toward AT&T Stadium upgrades, in exchange for an extension of the Dallas Cowboys' lease through 2055 (current lease ends 2038). The Cowboys are contributing at least $750 million. Upgrades include security enhancements, road improvements, pedestrian bridges, a dedicated ride-share parking lot, additional digital signage, and plaza shade cover.
📍 Where
AT&T Stadium and surrounding Cowboys Complex Development Project area, City of Arlington.
📋 What we know
- Council voted to approve the agreement on April 22, 2026. Council members Bowie Hogg and Nikkie Hunter cast the only dissenting votes, raising concerns about not putting the commitment directly to voters.
- City contribution funded by voter-approved venue-tax revenue from the 2004 Cowboys Complex Project and the 2016 Texas Rangers Complex Project — both of which have overperformed initial revenue expectations.
- Per council figures, the Dallas Cowboys generate approximately $324 million annually for the City of Arlington.
🗳️ What you can do
- Watch Arlington City Council agendas for related infrastructure work orders + bid awards.
- Track the State of Texas Major Events Reimbursement Program disclosures for state-level participation in the deal.
🔗 Direct links
📰 Source
Source: Fort Worth Report, KERA News, WFAA, Spectrum News. Read the Fort Worth Report coverage →
This page states facts only. Questions and opinion belong in Ask the Desk.
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