The Philadelphia 76ers have announced ambitious plans to construct a new arena in Center City, targeting completion for the 2031-32 NBA season. While this project has secured an endorsement from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, it faces a gauntlet of approvals from the city council and considerable opposition from various community factions.
Community Concerns
Among the vocal opponents is Jason Kelce, an NFL player with roots in Cleveland, Ohio. Kelce's opposition is shaped by personal experience, having witnessed the relocation of the NFL's Browns to Baltimore. He fears a repeat scenario in Philadelphia, emphasizing the profound emotional and economic impact such moves can inflict on communities.
"I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably," Kelce states, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the community. He adds, "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."
Kelce's concerns extend beyond the immediate fanbase, touching on the broader implications for the local residents, particularly in Chinatown. Activist groups like the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West have been particularly vocal, highlighting the potential displacement that such a development could spur.
Ownership and Alternatives
The ownership group pushing for the new arena is Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), which, in addition to owning the 76ers, also owns the NFL's Washington Commanders and the NHL's New Jersey Devils. This multi-franchise ownership model has drawn criticism, with Kelce remarking, "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."
Interestingly, HBSE has acknowledged an alternative proposal from Camden, New Jersey, should the Philadelphia plan fail to materialize. This alternative underscores the owners' determination to secure a new venue for the 76ers, regardless of the location.
Public Sentiment
A recent poll among registered voters in Philadelphia indicates that only 18% support the new Center City arena. This low approval rating reflects widespread apprehension about the potential disruption to the local community and the displacement of residents. Rhetoric against the plan has been fueled by fears that the new arena could fundamentally alter the character and demographics of the affected areas.
Long-Term Perspectives
Despite his staunch opposition, Kelce provides a nuanced view of the long-term implications, admitting, "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. 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."
The debate over the 76ers' new arena encapsulates the complex interplay between development and community well-being, a narrative familiar in urban planning yet profoundly personal for those directly affected. With the current lease at Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia set to expire in 2031, the urgency behind these discussions is palpable. The 76ers are evidently committed to pushing forward, whether in Center City or elsewhere, signaling significant changes on the horizon for Philadelphia's sports landscape.