PHILADELPHIA – (Staff and Wire Report) – Will there be the “Fashion Street Bullies” of the NBA? The Philadelphia 76ers organization is proposing a privately funded new arena in the downtown, intended to be complete by the time the Sixers’ lease expires at the Wells Fargo Center in 2031, a building largely run by the parent group of the Philadelphia Flyers, once known as the “Broad Street Bullies,” because of the old Philly Spectrum’s location.
“We’re committed to building a world-class home in the heart of the city and creating a privately-funded arena that strengthens ties within the local community,” said Josh Harris, the Sixers’ managing partner.
At 18,000 seats, the capacity of the new indoor arena would shrink by about 2,000 compared to the Wells Fargo Center.
The project is a joint venture between the Sixers, the Fashion District shopping center’s California-based operator Macerich, and Philadelphia real estate magnate David Adelman, the owner of Campus Apartments.
Car parking would be an issue at the new location, especially for fans travelling from southern New Jersey, Delaware and suburban Pennsylvania.