The Dallas Cowboys will be remaining at AT&T Stadium in Arlington for decades to come following a decision by the Arlington City Council.
The council approved a major extension agreement that keeps the team in place through 2055.
City leaders say it maintains the current venues and tax structure, with no new or increased taxes. Revenue generated will remain tied to the stadium district.
Under the agreement, the Cowboys would invest about $750 million in stadium improvements, maintenance, and operations, while the city would contribute roughly $273 million. That public funding comes from the original 2004 agreement at a half-cent sales tax that voters approved to help build the stadium.
Officials estimate the deal could generate $32 million in new revenue over the life of the agreement.
According to Mayor Jim Ross, the extension does not require a new public vote because that funding mechanism is already in place, but residents and critics argued the updated deal should have gone back to voters. Ross defended the council’s decision, pointing to the original voter approval and the city’s long-term economic interests.
Critics have raised concerns about taxpayer involvement and whether the deal could still face legal challenges.
Arlington attorney Warren Norred says he supports the Cowboys organization but draws a hard line at writing them a public check. Norred says there should have been a public referendum, and he is prepared to challenge it in court because the 2024 agreement wasn’t open ended.