The Philadelphia 76ers have unveiled ambitious plans to construct a new arena in Center City, potentially completing the project by the 2031-32 NBA season. However, the proposal has sparked significant opposition within the community, particularly from residents in Chinatown who fear displacement. The plan also requires approval from the city council, adding another layer of complexity to this contentious issue.
Endorsement and Opposition
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker officially endorsed the project, signaling a critical first step towards its realization. Yet, her endorsement has not quelled the growing concerns within the local community. Several groups, such as the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West, have condemned the proposal, emphasizing the potential adverse impacts on local residents and businesses. A recent poll of registered voters in Philadelphia revealed that only 18% are in favor of the new Center City arena, highlighting the widespread opposition to the plan.
Concerns Over Displacement
One of the most vocal critics of the relocation is NFL player Jason Kelce, whose opposition is rooted in personal experience. Having grown up in Cleveland, Ohio, Kelce witnessed the NFL's Browns relocate to Baltimore, a move that left lasting scars on his community. Kelce expressed his frustration, stating, "I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably."
Kelce's objections are not merely sentimental; they reflect a broader concern for the community's well-being. "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," he remarked. "I really have a hard time being OK with that. I'm not OK with it. I think it's wrong."
Financial Stakes and Ownership
The ownership group behind the proposal, Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), is a significant player in the sports world. They own the 76ers, NFL's Washington Commanders, and NHL's New Jersey Devils. This diverse portfolio of teams has led to criticism from figures like Kelce, who argue that the ownership group's outsider status undermines their connection to Philadelphia. "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 stated.
Future Prospects
Despite the fierce opposition, HBSE has acknowledged the possibility of an alternative proposal in Camden, New Jersey, should the deal in Philadelphia fall through. This contingency plan underscores the high stakes involved as HBSE seeks to secure a new home for the 76ers. The current lease at the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia is set to expire in 2031, adding urgency to the negotiations.
Kelce remains skeptical about the project, even while acknowledging that the community may eventually come to accept—and even appreciate—the new 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. 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.
As the city council deliberates on this controversial proposal, the fate of the new arena hangs in the balance. The strong opposition from the community and the vocal disapproval from high-profile figures like Jason Kelce underscore the complexities and challenges that lie ahead for the 76ers and their ambitious plans for Center City.