Philadelphia's iconic basketball franchise, the Philadelphia 76ers, has announced plans to build a new arena in Center City. The proposed project is aimed at being ready by the 2031-32 NBA season and has garnered support from various sectors, including a significant endorsement from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker.
Community Opposition
Despite the backing from city leadership, the proposal has faced staunch opposition from local residents and community groups. One of the most vocal concerns revolves around the potential displacement of residents, particularly those in Chinatown. This area has deep cultural roots and historical significance, leading to significant resistance to the planned arena.
Jason Kelce, a prominent figure and an outspoken critic of the relocation plans, has voiced his concerns publicly. Kelce, who grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, has a personal connection to this issue, having witnessed firsthand the relocation of the NFL’s Browns to Baltimore. "I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably," said Kelce, reflecting a sentiment shared by many Philadelphia natives.
Political and Survey Insights
The proposal is still pending approval from the city council. Recent polling data indicates that support for the new arena is limited among Philadelphia's registered voters, with only 18% expressing favor for the move to Center City. This statistic underscores a significant public resistance, aligning with the positions of groups like the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West, both of which have condemned the plan.
Voices from Leadership and Opposition
"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," stated Kelce, highlighting the disconnect between the ownership's decisions and the community's preferences. "I really have a hard time being OK with that. I'm not OK with it. I think it's wrong."
Ownership group Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), which controls the 76ers, also owns the NFL's Washington Commanders and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. Kelce and other critics have pointed out the non-local nature of this ownership, further fueling discontent. "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," Kelce remarked sharply.
Potential Alternatives and Future Impacts
HBSE has acknowledged that if the Philadelphia arena plan falls through, they have an alternative proposal to build an arena in Camden, New Jersey. This contingency underscores the owners' determination to push forward with a new venue, regardless of the location.
Currently, the 76ers' lease at the Wells Fargo Center is set to expire in 2031, making the timing of this proposed new arena particularly pressing. The team has been actively pushing for the new Center City facility, adding layers of urgency and complexity to the debate.
Kelce, while recognizing the potential future benefits, still grapples with the immediate negative consequences. "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," he conceded.
The contentious debate over the 76ers' new arena is far from over. With strong opinions on both sides and the Philadelphia community deeply divided, the fate of the project now lies in the hands of the city council and the continuing public discourse.