Md. Weighs Stadium for D.C. United

Raith said the stadium authority received approval from the state budget committees this month for the study, and it held a teleconference yesterday with companies interested in submitting proposals for the contract.

The contract is likely to be awarded late next month, and the report should be completed by late summer or early fall, Raith said.

The report will assess the direct and indirect impact of the stadium and the creation of jobs during construction and operation, and identify comparable facilities.

Johnson is not the only one who has suggested that Maryland try to lure the team. Comptroller Peter Franchot sent a letter to the authority's chairman, Frederick W. Puddester, in October suggesting that the state find a site for a stadium.

Franchot sent the letter to the stadium authority after learning that MacFarlane had hired consultants to look at potential sites in Maryland and Virginia.

Johnson said the county could expect more than 50 games and concerts at the stadium each year, with an attendance of more than 1 million.

"It's important to note the stadium will be a significant regional draw, bringing all new tax dollars to Prince George's County and our state," Johnson said.

He added that Prince George's has a "significant advantage over other jurisdictions in the region" because of its history with the stadium authority to promote similar developments.