Philadelphia mayor strikes a deal with the 76ers to build a new arena downtown

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia 76ers have a new teammate in their bid to build a new $1.3 billion arena downtown. We have the best Chinatown in the United States, and I am committed to working together to support it.” Team owners say their planned 76 Place would improve a struggling retail corridor near City Hall and capitalize on the city’s public transit. Josh Harris, a managing partner of the ownership group, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, has said the Sixers will build a privately funded facility that “strengthens ties within the local community through investments that prioritize equity, inclusivity and accessibility.” On Wednesday, a spokesperson said the owners were grateful for Parker’s support of their proposal “and look forward to advancing to the next steps with city council.” Chinatown activists who have felt the squeeze of development repeatedly since at least the 1990s had urged the mayor to reject the plan. Debbie Wei, of the Save Chinatown Coalition, said the mayor alone should not decide “whether our community should live or die.” “This fight is far from over,” she said in a statement. It’s on.” Comcast Spectacor Chairman and CEO Daniel J. Hilferty said they will keep the door open for the 76ers as the plan unfolds while working with the Phillies to expand entertainment venues and jobs at the South Philadelphia complex.