The Kansas City Chiefs announced that architectural firms MANICA and Populous have been named finalists to serve as lead designer for the team’s new stadium.

Both firms are based in the Kansas City area and advanced after a competitive request-for-qualification and request-for-proposal process. Chiefs President Mark Donovan said the region’s strong history in sports venue design made the selection process especially competitive.

The new stadium will be built in Wyandotte County, Kansas, and is scheduled to open for the 2031 NFL season. The project includes a fixed-roof stadium and a surrounding mixed-use development.

MANICA has designed major venues such as Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and Chase Center in San Francisco. Populous’ portfolio includes Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London and the Sphere in Las Vegas.

The $3 billion project will be funded through a public-private partnership and is expected to generate thousands of jobs and significant economic impact for the state of Kansas.