Plans for a new $1.55 billion arena for the 76ers, called 76 Place, have sparked much concern about how it will affect Philadelphia’s Chinatown.
The arena is set to be built between Market and Filbert Streets and 10th and 11th Streets, replacing part of the Fashion District.
While some say the new development could boost the local economy, others worry about its effect on Chinatown’s culture, businesses, and residents.
The Mayor’s office released several reports that examine different aspects of the proposed arena, such as its impact on the community, economy, transportation, and design.
The biggest concern is that while the arena won’t directly force anyone out of their homes, it could speed up gentrification.
This could make it harder for people to afford to stay in the area, especially Chinatown residents, who fear losing their community’s unique identity.
Local businesses could also feel the pressure. Big companies might benefit from the arena because of the crowds it would bring, but smaller businesses could struggle.
The report showed that while one in five Chinatown businesses might benefit—mostly restaurants, entertainment spots, and hotels—half could see negative effects, especially those in areas like grocery, healthcare, or financial services.
These businesses, many of which cater specifically to Chinatown’s immigrant community, may not be able to attract the crowds coming to the arena.
One of the bigger concerns from the report is how this project could affect Chinatown’s cultural fabric.
Chinatown is known for its tight-knit social networks, where businesses are more than just places to shop or eat; they’re where the community comes together.
According to the report, the arena could threaten Chinatown’s sense of identity.
Activists like Vivian Chang, part of the Save Chinatown Coalition, have criticized the reports, saying they don’t fully address the real risks Chinatown faces.
Many in the community have been protesting the arena from the start.
The Save Chinatown Coalition argues that the developers, who stand to make a lot of money from the arena, will benefit the most, while the local community will bear the brunt of the negative impacts.
They also point out that the arena developers won’t pay property taxes and worry about the effect on jobs and wages, especially for Black workers, based on similar projects in other cities.
However, not everyone sees the arena as a bad thing.
Some, like the NAACP’s Philadelphia branch, believe the arena could bring much-needed jobs to the area, especially for the Black community.
The 76ers organization also says the project will generate much revenue, creating around 710 jobs and $390 million in tax revenue over the next 30 years.
They’re confident that Philadelphia can support two major arenas, even though some fear it could hurt the Wells Fargo Center, the current home of the 76ers.
Still, many small business owners in Chinatown are worried.
Only about 25% of these owners own the properties they operate out of, meaning most are renters and could be forced out by rising rents if gentrification ramps up.
The report highlights this vulnerability, saying many small businesses may be unable to survive if rents skyrocket.
There’s also concern about the arena’s design. The current plans don’t include an open public space like some other arenas do, which could have been a place for gatherings and community events.
Traffic is another issue.
The report says that if too many people drive to the arena, it could cause major gridlock.
Public transportation is being pushed as a solution, with ideas like including a transit pass with each event ticket and adding large-scale bike parking.
Interestingly, New Jersey and Delaware have both expressed interest in hosting the 76ers’ new stadium, but the team says they’re committed to staying in Philadelphia. They hope to open the arena in time for the 2031-32 NBA season.
Chinatown has faced similar challenges in the past. In the 1980s, the construction of the Vine Street Expressway displaced over 600 residents, and the building of the Pennsylvania Convention Center in the 1990s forced out 200 homes and businesses.
The neighborhood has fought off other large projects, too, like a casino and a baseball stadium. This history has made the community wary of any new developments that could disrupt their way of life.
A big part of the concern is what the report calls the “Jenga effect,” where small changes to Chinatown’s social or business networks could cause the whole system to fall apart.
Many small businesses in Chinatown aren’t just about making money—they’re community hubs where people gather, celebrate, and connect. If these businesses start closing, it could push people away from the neighborhood altogether.
A recent survey showed that 67% of people said they would leave or stop visiting Chinatown if their favorite businesses shut down.
Some community members feel that the reports confirmed what they already knew—that the arena poses a serious risk to Chinatown.
They’ve been speaking out against the project for over two years, worried that it would strip the neighborhood of its unique character.
As one local cafe owner, Sam Sam, put it, “There is no way that my small business can survive six years of demolition and construction, not to mention the traffic nightmares if the arena opens.”
Chinatown leaders and activists are gearing up for more protests as the city moves closer to making a decision.
A march is planned for September 7 in Center City, and Chinatown residents are prepared to keep fighting to protect their neighborhood.
Chinatown’s history, dating back to 1871, and its role as a cultural hub for Asian immigrants in Philadelphia make this issue especially emotional for many.
The community has already lost land to development projects over the years and continues to feel the pressure of rising costs and gentrification.
Recent efforts, like a $158 million project to reconnect Chinatown with its northern section, show that the community is working to maintain its identity and preserve its space in the city.
The question remains: Will the new 76ers arena bring growth and opportunity, or will it push Chinatown to the edge, threatening to erase a historic and vibrant community in the process?
City officials, including the City Council, are set to decide later this year, but for now, Chinatown’s future hangs in the balance.
