76ers Cancel Apartment Tower Plans for Arena

The Philadelphia 76ers have officially scrapped plans for a $250 million apartment tower as part of their proposed Center City arena project, 76 Place. This decision, requested by Councilman Mark Squilla, came after concerns from the Chinatown community, who felt the development would not provide affordable housing or benefits to the neighborhood. Originally, the tower was set to include 395 units, with 20% designated for affordable housing, but local opposition led to its removal. The arena project, estimated at $1.3 billion, will proceed without any city funding, and construction is expected to begin in 2028. Mayor Cherelle Parker supports the arena, asserting it will benefit the city, despite criticism regarding the lack of affordable housing. Meanwhile, the New Jersey government has expressed interest in hosting the Sixers if the Philadelphia plans falter.