Sphere proposed for National Harbor; Maryland leaders project $1.5B annual economic impact

Sphere proposed for National Harbor; economic impact discussed

Governor Wes Moore and Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy are set to outline the projected economic impact of bringing a massive Sphere entertainment venue to National Harbor.

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. - Governor Wes Moore and Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy outlined a projected $1.5 billion annual economic impact for Maryland for bringing a massive Sphere entertainment venue to National Harbor.

What we know:

If approved, the 6,000‑seat venue would be the second Sphere in the country and the only one on the East Coast. FOX 5’s Maureen Umeh was at National Harbor on Wednesday, where state and county leaders say the project is expected to drive $1.3 billion in economic impact for Prince George’s County and an additional $200 million elsewhere in the state.

"We knew immediately Sphere National Harbor was going to be transformational. This new economic data has reconfirmed how amazing a win this is for the people of Prince George’s County and Maryland," Braveboy said. 

READ MORE: Maryland is getting a 'Sphere'—here's what to know

The proposed venue would be a smaller version of the Las Vegas Sphere, featuring the same Exosphere LED exterior and a 16K‑by‑16K interior screen. Plans call for an eight‑acre site near MGM National Harbor, 3,350 construction jobs, and about 7,100 permanent jobs once the venue opens. The project also includes roughly $200 million in combined state, local, and private incentives.

County officials say the Sphere’s projected annual revenue would be more than triple the tax impact currently generated by Northwest Stadium and Six Flags combined.

The backstory:

National Harbor already draws more than 15 million visitors a year, and leaders believe the Sphere would significantly boost tourism, entertainment, and business activity across the region.

The project remains in its early stages and would require both state and county approval. If it moves forward, officials say the Sphere could open within four years.