Dallas Cowboys Will Develop AT&T Stadium District
The team plans to transform the area around their Arlington stadium into a year-round destination.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Commercial
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The Dallas Cowboys intend to develop a sports and entertainment district surrounding AT&T Stadium in Arlington. This project aims to replicate the mixed-use model previously established by the team at The Star in Frisco.
Why it matters
The team seeks to convert the stadium area into a year-round destination, mirroring broader trends in sports infrastructure development. This strategy aligns with the team's commitment to Arlington through their lease renewal extending to 2055.
AT&T Stadium spans 3 million square feet, while the team's successful development model, The Star, covers 91 acres and includes 1.5 million square feet of office space, a 300-room hotel, and a 170-unit residential tower.
The players
Dallas Cowboys
This professional American football team competes in the National Football League and is based in the North Texas region.
AT&T Stadium
Located in Arlington, this massive venue serves as the home field for the Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Mavericks
This professional basketball team competes in the National Basketball Association and is currently involved in independent mixed-use property development.
Dallas Stars
This professional ice hockey team competes in the National Hockey League and has announced plans for a large-scale sports district in Plano.
The details
The Cowboys are looking to expand their real estate footprint in Arlington by building out the land near the stadium, consistent with similar efforts by other North Texas sports franchises. The city of Arlington recently authorized $273 million in funding for stadium-related enhancements to support this long-term vision.
Timeline
2009: The Dallas Cowboys moved into AT&T Stadium.
2016: The Star opened in Frisco.
April 2026: Arlington approved $273 million for stadium improvements.
September 2026: The Dallas Mavericks started a mixed-use project.
2055: The Dallas Cowboys lease in Arlington expires.
Roadmap
This development follows the successful mixed-use sports and entertainment district model established by The Star in Frisco. It reflects a wider industry shift where sports franchises leverage stadium proximity to create permanent, multi-revenue real estate assets.
Residents and visitors can expect new commercial, office, and residential amenities to replace existing open space near the stadium. These additions may alter local traffic patterns and increase the availability of dining and lodging options in the Arlington Entertainment District.
The takeaway
The move demonstrates how professional teams are increasingly operating as real estate developers to maximize stadium utility. Local property owners and residents should monitor future planning commission filings to see how these district additions integrate with existing neighborhood infrastructure.
Further reading
For more information on similar developments in the region, visit the Commercial section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bisnow.
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