PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia officials have announced "an independent and comprehensive evaluation" of the Philadelphia 76ers’ proposal to build a $1.3 billion sports arena next to the city's Chinatown neighborhood, an idea that's drawn strong opposition from some Chinatown residents and leaders.Mayor Jim Kenney on Wednesday called the proposal announced last summer "an exciting opportunity" but said officials must understand the impact it may have on the surrounding communities before any plans move forward."In the coming months, he said, city and public agency partners as well as third-party consultants will complete technical studies on the feasibility and impacts of such an arena in the proposed location.
He said that would include assessing "building design, community impact and urban planning, economic impact and parking/traffic impact."Kenney also said the developers must ensure that the project "works for the surrounding communities" that would be affected and urged that they be "involved and engaged throughout every step of this process."The city's announcement came hours before an evening meeting scheduled in Chinatown by opponents of the arena, which would be built just a block away from the community's prominent gateway arch with a planned opening in 2031.
Related As excitement builds for the 76ers upcoming playoff run, those vying to be the next mayor of Philadelphia are voicing their opinions on a controversial proposal to build a new arena in Center City.The 76ers’ current home is in south Philadelphia, a few miles (kilometers) from downtown, along with most of the city’s other pro sports teams.