Photos: D.C. United’s new stadium takes shape at Buzzard Point

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Audi Field is no longer a dream. It’s becoming a reality.

Construction of D.C. United’s new stadium at Buzzard Point in Southwest, three blocks from Nationals Park, has made substantial progress in the six-plus months since the ceremonial groundbreaking. The club is aiming to open the 20,000-capacity venue next June.

In order to play a full home schedule in the new digs in 2018, United will begin the campaign with approximately 12 consecutive away matches. Barring a late surge by the last-place team this season, United will make its final appearance at RFK Stadium after 22 seasons (some 400 home dates) on Oct. 22 against the New York Red Bulls.

The city contributed $150 million to the Audi Field project (land purchase, infrastructure). United will end up spending around $250 million, a figure that has risen significantly since plans were first announced.

On Sunday, before enjoying a late afternoon at The Salt Line and The Yards, which will become a prime pregame and postgame destination for DCU supporters, I went by the construction zone to snap a few photos.

Bonus photo, taken two weeks ago by Tony Quinn, from Nationals Park: