The Philadelphia 76ers have officially announced their ambitious plan to construct a new arena in Center City, with the goal of having it ready for the 2031-32 NBA season. This proposal, while gaining traction in some circles, has sparked a wave of opposition within the community, including strong reactions from prominent figures like NFL star Jason Kelce.
Strong Dissent from the Community
The new arena plan, which requires approval from the city council, has already been met with significant resistance. Concerns are mounting over the potential displacement of local residents, particularly those in the historic Chinatown neighborhood. Local groups such as the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West have been vocal in their condemnation of the project.
A recent poll among registered voters in Philadelphia revealed a striking lack of support for the proposal, with only 18% in favor of the planned move to Center City. This statistic underscores the widespread unease and disapproval of the project among the city's residents.
Jason Kelce’s Outspoken Opposition
Philadelphia Eagles' center Jason Kelce has been an outspoken critic of the 76ers' relocation plans. Kelce, who grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, has personal experience with the relocation of sports teams, having witnessed the Cleveland Browns' controversial move to Baltimore.
"I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably," Kelce stated, reflecting his desire to keep the 76ers at their current location in Wells Fargo Center, where their lease is set to expire in 2031. He criticized the ownership group, Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), for pushing the new arena plan despite local opposition.
Kelce continued, "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." His sentiment echoes the frustration of many Philadelphia residents who feel marginalized by the decision-making process.
HBSE, which owns the 76ers, the NFL's Washington Commanders, and the NHL's New Jersey Devils, has faced scrutiny for its multi-city ownership and the perception that it lacks a genuine connection to Philadelphia. Kelce's statement, "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," encapsulates the tension between the team's fans and its owners.
Future Uncertainties and Alternative Plans
While there is strong opposition, there are some who believe that a new arena in Center City could eventually be seen as a positive development for the city. As Kelce put it, "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."
Should the Philadelphia project fall through, HBSE has acknowledged considering an alternative proposal from Camden, New Jersey. This fallback option underscores the ownership group’s determination to see through the construction of a new arena by the time the current lease at Wells Fargo Center expires.
Mayor’s Endorsement and Next Steps
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has officially endorsed the new arena project, lending significant support to the proposal. However, the plan's future hinges on obtaining city council approval, a process that will undoubtedly be influenced by the prevailing public sentiment and the concerted efforts of opposition groups.
As the 76ers push forward with their initiative, the broader community continues to grapple with the implications of such a significant change to their urban landscape. The unfolding drama underlines the complex interplay between sports, community, and urban development in a city that treasures its traditions and communal bonds.