A proposed Sphere entertainment venue at National Harbor in Maryland is moving forward. Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy announced that the project’s revenue potential significantly surpasses that of the Washington Commanders and Six Flags combined. This development comes as the county seeks to boost its economy following recent departures of major attractions.
Key Takeaways
- National Harbor is set to host the second Sphere venue in the U.S., a smaller version of the Las Vegas original.
- The project is expected to generate more revenue than the Washington Commanders and Six Flags combined.
- Maryland, Prince George’s County, and Peterson Cos. are committing over $200 million in public and private funds.
- The venue could create 2,500 construction jobs and 4,750 permanent jobs.
- Operation is projected to begin as early as 2030.
A New Entertainment Landmark for National Harbor
Sphere Entertainment Co. is collaborating with Maryland, Prince George’s County, and Peterson Cos. to establish a new entertainment complex. This venue, planned for National Harbor, would be located next to the MGM complex. It represents the second Sphere facility in the United States, following the original opened in Las Vegas in 2023.
The proposed National Harbor Sphere will be about one-third the size of its Las Vegas counterpart, featuring approximately 6,000 seats. County Executive Braveboy stated that the facility could be fully operational within four years, providing a vital economic stimulus to the region.
Project at a Glance
- Location: National Harbor, Maryland, next to MGM complex
- Size: Approximately one-third the size of the Las Vegas Sphere
- Seating Capacity: Around 6,000 seats
- Estimated Cost: Over $1 billion
- Projected Completion: As early as 2030
Significant Economic Investment and Job Creation
Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D) described the project as “one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history.” The total investment for the Sphere is projected to exceed $1 billion. This large-scale undertaking requires substantial financial contributions from both public and private entities.
The state of Maryland plans to allocate $13.5 million towards the project. This includes a $10 million capital grant in the proposed fiscal 2027 budget, $3 million in financial incentives from the Maryland Economic Corp., and $480,000 in advertising funds from the Department of Commerce’s Marketing and Tourism budget. Additional financial programs may also be utilized.
Funding Breakdown
The project relies on a multi-faceted funding approach:
- Maryland State: $13.5 million (including a $10M capital grant)
- Prince George’s County: $170 million (including $130M in tax increment financing and $40M for a parking garage)
- Peterson Cos.: Estimated $15 million (via discounted ground lease)
Prince George’s County has committed $170 million. This includes $130 million through tax increment financing, which dedicates future tax revenue gains to the project. An additional $40 million will fund a public parking garage, owned and operated by the county and financed through public bonds. Peterson Cos., the developers of National Harbor, are expected to provide a beneficial land transaction, potentially valued at around $15 million for Sphere developers.
"My team did an amazing job of putting together a deal that protected the people of Prince George’s County, but also incentivized a major company to move such an iconic venue here to Prince George’s County," County Executive Braveboy stated. "Let’s just say our neighbors were in the mix, and other states across the country."
Officials anticipate the project will create 2,500 construction jobs. Once operational, it is expected to generate 4,750 permanent jobs. Braveboy indicated that the venue could open as early as 2030. This job creation is a significant factor in the county's economic strategy.
Addressing Recent Economic Challenges
The introduction of the Sphere project is timely for Prince George’s County, which has faced several economic setbacks. The county has experienced a loss of federal jobs and ongoing disputes regarding the FBI headquarters location. Furthermore, the Washington Commanders are relocating their stadium from Landover to Washington, D.C., by 2030, and Six Flags Great America in Largo closed last year.
County Executive Braveboy emphasized that the Sphere project would not only compensate for these losses but would also provide a substantial economic boost. She projected that the annual revenue from the Sphere would "really dwarf what we currently receive from the Commanders and Six Flags combined." Braveboy added that current estimates suggest the yearly revenue could more than triple existing figures from those former attractions.
Long-Term Vision for Regional Entertainment
Governor Moore highlighted Maryland's "long history of providing world-class entertainment." He expressed excitement about working with Sphere Entertainment to bring this "cutting-edge project to life." The Sphere is positioned to become a major draw, enhancing the region's appeal as an entertainment destination.
The project is still undergoing negotiations and requires final approvals from Sphere Entertainment, Prince George’s County, and the state of Maryland. Its successful implementation could redefine the economic and cultural landscape of the National Harbor area and Prince George's County for decades to come.
Impact on the Local Economy
- Revenue: Expected to triple current combined revenue from Commanders and Six Flags.
- Construction Jobs: 2,500 positions.
- Permanent Jobs: 4,750 positions upon opening.
- Timeline: Fully operational within four years of construction start, potentially by 2030.
The Sphere aims to attract visitors from across the region and beyond, offering a unique entertainment experience. This initiative represents a strategic effort to diversify the local economy and create new opportunities for residents.
