Proposed Sphere at National Harbor could top $1 billion, face review
The proposed National Harbor Sphere would rise more than 300 feet, cost more than $1 billion and still needs county and federal approval. It could bring 3,350 construction jobs and traffic worries.
A proposed Sphere at National Harbor would rise more than 300 feet, cost more than $1 billion and still has to clear county and federal review before it can move from concept to construction. The project would be a 6,000-seat entertainment venue in Oxon Hill, tied to MGM National Harbor by a sheltered pedestrian bridge and paired with a separate parking garage, courtyard plazas and dedicated rideshare and shuttle drop-off areas.
Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy said the project is still in the planning stages and must be thoroughly reviewed and approved. The Federal Aviation Administration also has a role because National Harbor sits about five miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and the agency requires developers to give it the chance to evaluate proposed structures near airports for hazards to aircraft or interference with navigation aids.
The county estimates $1.6 billion in economic benefits during construction alone, along with 3,350 full- and part-time construction-related jobs. Once operating, the county projects more than $1.3 billion in annual economic impact in Prince George’s County and another $200 million for other parts of Maryland, plus about $63 million in annual taxes to the county. The venue would directly and indirectly support about 7,100 full- and part-time jobs in Prince George’s County.
Sphere Entertainment Co., the State of Maryland, Prince George’s County and Peterson Companies announced their intent to develop the venue on January 18, 2026. The project would rely on about $200 million in state, local and private incentives, including a tax increment financing package. The National Harbor Sphere would be the second Sphere in the United States and the first built with a smaller-scale design model.
Prince George’s County lost Six Flags and the Commanders. County Councilmember Jolene Ivey said she was “very geeked” about the project, while Braveboy said she was excited about the potential economic boost.
MGM National Harbor opened on Dec. 8, 2016, and cost $1.4 billion.
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