Comcast Spectacor has unveiled its plans for the first stage of a multi-phase major development at the Stadium Complex in South Philadelphia, which would include updates to Xfinity Live! in the next few years, and a concert venue, hotel and retail stores in the Stadium District possibly by 2028.
Comcast Spectacor said it is moving forward in the coming months and is hopeful to have $12 million worth of upgrades to Xfinity Live! completed in 2025 or early 2026, which would line up with FIFA soccer’s men’s World Cup in 2026, as the city has been tabbed to host several games.
Phase 1 also includes the construction of a 5,500-seat concert venue for smaller or intimate-sized shows, a 250-key hotel and new restaurants and shops, which are targeted for completion by 2028.
A second phase, which Comcast Spectator does not yet have development rights for, is still looking for stakeholder support. Comcast said it is imagining a new live-work-play district with more retail and restaurants, residences, office space and green space. It estimates completion in about 10 years. All totaled, the project is looking at a $2.5 billion price tag.
“Comcast Spectacor is excited to share what we see as the next evolution of the Sports Complex,” said Comcast Spectacor Chairman and CEO Dan Hilferty in a statement. “Phase 1 of the project enhances the core area with upgrades to Xfinity Live! along with adding a mid-sized concert venue, a hotel, new retail shops and a beautiful outdoor plaza. This phase is within our development rights and will be initiated within the coming months. Phase 2 presents an aspirational vision for creating a new live-work-play community in and around the existing sports and entertainment venues. This peacemaking approach has been implemented in major cities across the country, and we believe Philadelphia deserves it, too.”
According to plans released by Comcast Spectator, the Phase 1 plan will span Parking Lots G and H of the complex, which are directly north of the Wells Fargo Center, with the proposed music venue also occupying a portion of Parking Lot G.
“Exciting projects are already underway in South Philadelphia from the revitalization of FDR Park to the development of the Navy Yard and Bellwether District,” Hilferty said. “We believe this vision for the new Sports Complex can be a transformative project, serving as a stronger connection to South Philadelphia while bringing more jobs, residents, workers and visitors to the area.” ••
