The Philadelphia 76ers have unveiled an ambitious plan to construct a new arena in Center City, Philadelphia. This proposal, if approved, is slated to be realized by the 2031-32 NBA season. The initiative has gained the official endorsement of Mayor Cherelle Parker, marking a significant step forward. However, it faces strong opposition from the community, particularly regarding concerns about the displacement of local residents in areas such as Chinatown.
Jason Kelce, a notable figure opposing the relocation, has been vocal about his reservations. Growing up in Cleveland, Kelce experienced firsthand the upheaval caused by a franchise relocation when the NFL's Browns moved to Baltimore. "I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably," said Kelce, echoing the sentiment of many fans and community members. Reflecting on the emotional toll and investment of the local supporters, he added, “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.”
The Philadelphia City Council must approve the arena plan, a critical hurdle that determines whether the project moves forward. Currently, the proposal faces significant pushback from civic groups like the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West, which have condemned the plan. A recent poll revealed that only 18% of registered voters in Philadelphia support the construction of the new arena in Center City.
Concerns about displacement are central to the opposition. Kelce articulated his discontent, stating, “I really have a hard time being OK with that. I'm not OK with it. I think it's wrong.” He also critiqued the ownership group, Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), for not having deep roots in 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,” he added.
The 76ers’ current lease at the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia is set to expire in 2031, adding urgency to the push for a new arena. HBSE has acknowledged an alternative proposal from Camden, New Jersey, should negotiations in Philadelphia fall through, but the organization is committed to making the new arena a reality in Center City.
Despite his opposition, Kelce anticipates that opinions may change over time, albeit reluctantly. “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 concluded.
The debate over the new arena underscores the broader tensions between development ambitions and community preservation. As the 2031-32 target date approaches, the battle for the future of the 76ers' home will undoubtedly intensify, with both sides presenting compelling arguments for and against this transformative project.