The Philadelphia 76ers have revealed ambitious plans to construct a new arena in Center City, with hopes of making it ready for the 2031-32 NBA season. This development has garnered a mix of official endorsements and community opposition.
On Wednesday, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker officially threw her support behind the project. Nevertheless, the proposal still needs to secure approval from the city council, a step that remains fraught with significant challenges.
Community Concerns
Local opposition to the new arena is strong, particularly among residents of Chinatown who fear displacement. Community groups like the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West have expressed severe disapproval of the plan. Their concerns are rooted in the potential disruption to their neighborhoods and the lack of consideration for the longstanding community dynamics.
A recent poll of registered voters in Philadelphia underscores this sentiment, with only 18% expressing support for the new Center City arena. This clear lack of public favor poses yet another obstacle for the project.
Voices of Dissent
Jason Kelce, a prominent figure who grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, has vocally opposed the relocation plans. His perspective is informed by his experience witnessing the NFL's Browns relocate to Baltimore, a move that left a lasting impact on the community.
“I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably,” said Kelce. His discontent is clear as he elaborates on what he perceives as an unfair move by the ownership group.
“All of these people have devoted all of their time, all of their efforts, all of their money and a lifetime of fandom toward this team, and now you’re going to strong-arm people against what the city wants. I really have a hard time being OK with that. I’m not OK with it. I think it’s wrong.”
Kelce did not mince words when he criticized the ownership group, Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), which also owns the NFL's Washington Commanders and the NHL's New Jersey Devils. “The ownership group isn’t Philadelphian! It’s got a New Jersey Devils team, a Philadelphia team, and now a Washington team! Now they’re forcing the city to do what this guy wants, and it sucks.”
Ownership's Alternatives
HBSE has acknowledged an alternative proposal in Camden, New Jersey, to build an arena if the Philadelphia deal is not finalized. This alternative plan offers a potential safety net for the organization should local resistance in Philadelphia prove insurmountable.
The 76ers currently have a lease at the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia, which is set to expire in 2031. The push for a new facility is part of their long-term vision to secure a modern home for the team. However, this ambition is met with Kelce’s pragmatic yet poignant reflection on the potential future of a Center City arena.
"I'll say this, when it does get built in Center City and all of these people are displaced, at the end of the day people are probably going to love it," Kelce remarked, offering a glimpse into the possible benefits that might be realized. "In 10 years, all of this is gonna be different, and we're probably going to be really happy that there's this beautiful complex that was developed down there in a thriving part of the city. Right now, I really hate it."
As the city council deliberates on the proposal, it remains to be seen whether the administration can reconcile the desires of the 76ers' ownership with the concerns of the local community. The road to a new arena in Center City is undoubtedly complex, requiring careful navigation of economic ambitions and community preservation.