The Washington Commanders announced on Friday that the team will move business operations from FedExField to the University of Maryland’s Discovery District in early 2024 to meet greater demand for suites at the stadium while expanding the franchise’s footprint in the state of Maryland.
“Commanders fans are eager to support their team and we’re dedicated to ensuring the best experience possible both on and off the field,” said Commanders President Jason Wright. “Moving our headquarters will provide exciting new spaces to take in home games and will provide for greater collaboration for our business staff and partnership with the University of Maryland.”
The location of the new offices on the fourth floor of the building at 4600 River Road was chosen to foster connection between the university, local businesses and community. It is in the heart of the Discovery District, a 150-acre hub of research and innovation on the east side of the UMD campus, whose 60-plus tenants include federal agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, businesses including Capital One, Adobe and Raytheon, and amenities including The Hotel at the University of Maryland and the Hall CP.
The district is a critical component of Greater College Park, a $2 billion public-private effort to revitalize the Baltimore Avenue corridor and community around the university.
"The University of Maryland proudly welcomes the Washington Commanders to campus as part of our growing Discovery District," said Ken Ulman, chief strategy officer for economic development at UMD. "The proximity to this new home for the Commanders is an incredible opportunity for our students pursuing invaluable internships and our emerging sports management program. We look forward to all the possibilities for partnership."
The move comes on the heels of growing business and fan engagement successes including 13 new sponsors, a 20% increase in the team’s season ticket holder base and sellouts of all home games to date. Earlier this year, the Commanders also announced a $40 million investment in upgrades to the fan experience at FedExField, including the addition of themed suites that pay homage to retro arcade games, commemorate franchise history, and celebrate U.S. service members.
“Prince George’s County has been the proud home of the Washington Commanders for the past 25 years, and we are glad to welcome the staff that supports this organization to their new home in College Park,” said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. “The Commanders have been clear that they are focused on winning on and off the field as well as supporting the local community, and this partnership with the University of Maryland highlights that commitment. The Moore-Miller administration is thrilled to see the Commanders commit to further collaboration with residents and area small businesses in Prince George’s County.”