On Thursday, Philadelphia City Council gave its final approval to the 76ers’ proposal to build a $1.3 billion arena in Center City. Today’s approval formally ends the two-year contentious debate over 76 Place.
Arena proposal gets final approval
After a long two-year debate, multiple negotiations, and protests -including one today that temporarily suspended proceedings –Philadelphia City Council has voted in favor for 76ers’ proposal. The proposal centers around the construction of a new arena, 76 Place, in the Market East section of Philadelphia.
The recent vote aligns with the Philadelphia 76ers’ aspiration for the timely approval of the legislation by year-end.
Moreover, the team intends to inaugurate their new arena, named 76 Place, in 2031, coinciding with the expiration of their lease at the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia.
“Our goal is to deliver a new privately funded arena that makes a positive and lasting impact on our city by promoting inclusive community development that will generate more than 10,000 local jobs, more than $1B in new tax revenues for the city, state and School District of Philadelphia, and be a catalyst for the revitalization of East Market Street. We are excited to share the latest conceptual renderings of the project, inspired by community feedback and studying the best aspects from 28 of 30 NBA teams with existing downtown arenas.” said David Adelman, chairman of 76 DevCo in an official press release.
Public opinion continue to vary
However, some residents and business owners in the area do not support the construction of a new arena. They feel it will have a detrimental impact on the neighboring Chinatown.
During today’s final City Council meeting, several protestors temporarily halted proceedings. Wearing red shirts that read “shut it down”, the protestors locked hands and blocked council members from casting their votes.
Important to note, not everyone in attendance is against the arena. Many anticipate the news jobs and affordable housing promised by the 76ers with the construction of 76 Place.