The Philadelphia 76ers have abandoned their plan to build a new $1.3 billion arena in Center City, opting instead to remain at the sports complex in South Philadelphia. The decision comes after a deal was struck with Comcast Spectacor, which hopes to transform the South Philly sports complex over the next decade.
Comcast’s proposal includes transforming the complex into a year-round destination for work and play, featuring new retail and restaurants, a music venue, and a hotel. However, it does not specifically call for a new arena.
The Sixers proposed building a privately funded arena atop SEPTA’s Jefferson Station in 2020, but after City Council approved the project in December, the team decided to remain at South Philly. The decision effectively ends speculation that the team might still be considering a move to New Jersey.
Resident groups and community members strongly opposed the arena plan due to concerns over traffic, noise, and displacement of small businesses in Chinatown. However, labor unions, including Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, supported building an arena in Center City, citing job creation and economic benefits.
Source: https://whyy.org/articles/sixers-staying-south-philadelphia