PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker hosted a town hall about the 76ers’ proposed arena in Center City on Wednesday night.
Hundreds packed the Convention Center to make their voices heard about 76 Place at Market East, which was introduced by the Sixers two years ago.
“We are going to hear directly from the community — both those in support and those in opposition,” Parker said.
Before the event, hundreds gathered outside in protest , including members of the Save Chinatown Coalition. The coalition said the arena will have far-reaching effects, including displacing residents and harming small businesses.
Ann Marie Rubbo attended the protest and said: “Ruining a neighborhood like that ruins the culture of Philadelphia, and we are a city of neighborhoods.”
Independent consultants hired by the city addressed the crowd before both sides made their case, including those in support who said it would bring new jobs and revitalize the area.