The Philadelphia 76ers have dropped their plans for a $1.3 billion downtown arena after receiving city council approval just weeks ago. The team has struck a deal with Comcast Spectacor to remain in the sports stadium district, where they currently play.
In a surprise move, opponents of the project celebrated the news, saying it shows that the 76ers’ development arm did not treat the city fairly. Two City Council members who voted against the plan stated that the team’s proposal was “half-baked” and would have caused gridlock and displacement in the Chinatown area.
The arena’s move to downtown had been met with significant opposition, particularly from nearby residents and activists. The team owners had hoped to open the new arena by 2031, but their push for city approval has now come to an end.
Mayor Cherelle Parker, who championed the plan, had said it would bring economic benefits to the city, but opponents feared gentrification, rising rents, and increased gridlock. The No Arena coalition praised the city council’s decision, saying it shows that politicians should respond to people’s needs rather than corporate greed.
The 76ers’ new proposal is not yet available, but the team will continue to play in the current stadium district.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/philadelphia-76ers-nba-arena-chinatown-f55110de9e968ae9b0ca4ac04cd46ffe