City leaders approved a major extension agreement that keeps the Dallas Cowboys in place through 2055, passing the measure in a 7–2 vote.
ARLINGTON, Texas — The decision is in, and the Dallas Cowboys will remain at AT&T Stadium for decades to come.
Tuesday night, the Arlington City Council approved a major extension agreement that keeps the team in place through 2055, passing the measure in a 7–2 vote.
The deal builds on a plan voters originally approved in 2004, extending the team’s lease and franchise commitment by 15 years. 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 a half-cent sales tax that voters approved to help build the stadium. Mayor Jim Ross has argued the extension does not require a new public vote because that funding mechanism is already in place.
“It’s $273 million of tax revenue, and the voters should be heard on this, and I agree completely,” Mayor Ross said. “The voters did have a say… and they overwhelmingly said pay this thing back by 2048. That’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Officials estimate the deal could generate $32 million in new revenue over the life of the agreement, helping keep Arlington firmly on the sports map.
Still, the decision sparked debate both before and during Tuesday’s meeting.
Some residents and critics argued the updated deal should have gone back to voters, saying the scope of the agreement goes beyond what was originally approved.
“This should be put up for a vote. This is a whole different deal than what you’re presenting. This is something new,” one Arlington resident said during public comment.
Others emphasized the Cowboys’ economic and cultural impact on the city.
“For us, the presence of the Cowboys allows Arlington to punch above its weight,” another resident said.
Mayor Ross defended the council’s decision, pointing to the original voter approval and the city’s long-term economic interests.
“I intend to vote yes because Arlington has already instructed me to vote yes and we are doing exactly what voters required is to do to protect the city, and bring economic development to this city,” Mayor Ross said.
Supporters, including council members, have called the Cowboys a cornerstone of Arlington’s economy, while critics have raised concerns about taxpayer involvement and whether the deal could still face legal challenges.
In the end, city leaders say the agreement secures the Cowboys’ future in Arlington and the city’s economic vitality.