Philly’s mayor has given the green light for plans to build a new arena for the Sixers close to Chinatown.

Mayor Parker’s support aims to retain the Sixers in Philadelphia, though some residents are against the proposed location near Chinatown. She feels confident that approving plans for a new Center City arena is beneficial for the community. In a video from her City Hall office on September 18, she expressed pride in the decision, stating, “Philadelphia, I am proud. This is a historic agreement. It is the best financial deal ever made by a Philadelphia mayor for a local sports arena.”

According to CBS News, Mayor Parker held a town hall meeting a week prior to Wednesday’s announcement to discuss the $1.55 million project, 76 Place. The plans include the arena’s location at Market and Filbert Streets, as well as 10th and 11th Streets. The development will replace part of Fashion District Philadelphia and feature a 395-unit high-rise adjacent to the arena. Parker stated that the agreement would bring in over $1.3 billion in private investment for the city.

As your Mayor, I’m speaking from my City Hall office with a very important announcement. I am proud to share that I have made my decision, and an agreement has been reached to ensure that our Sixers are staying home.

I wholeheartedly believe this is the right deal for the People… pic.twitter.com/Fnj19mrBOV

— Mayor Cherelle L. Parker (@PhillyMayor) September 18, 2024

The Sixers expressed gratitude to Mayor Parker and her team for their thorough evaluation of the proposal, stating they look forward to collaborating with City Council on the next steps.

This endorsement comes after New Jersey proposed a site for the arena on the Camden waterfront near the Ben Franklin Bridge, but Parker is focused on keeping the team in Philadelphia. However, the plans for 76 Place have faced backlash due to its proximity to Chinatown. Protests occurred before Parker’s town hall meeting, with participants voicing concerns about potential displacement of residents and negative impacts on small businesses. Councilmember Mark Squilla noted that legislators will consider public comments and possible amendments before voting on legislation aimed at protecting Chinatown and its residents.

The proposal requires final approval from the City Council, and Mayor Parker mentioned that she will make a formal presentation soon. The Sixers aim to have the new arena ready by the 2031-32 NBA season, while the team will continue to play at the Wells Fargo Center in the meantime.