Philadelphia 76ers and Comcast Spectacor Unveil $1.3 Billion Arena at Former Spectrum Site

The Philadelphia 76ers and Comcast Spectacor on Sept. 8 unveiled the first exterior renderings of a proposed arena planned for the former Spectrum site in South Philadelphia, advancing what is described as the largest fully privately funded development project in Philadelphia's history.

The arena, estimated to cost approximately $1.3 billion, is targeted to open in 2030 as the new home of the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers, the NHL's Philadelphia Flyers, and Philadelphia's incoming WNBA expansion team. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, owner of the 76ers, and Comcast Spectacor, owner of the Flyers, are equal partners in the project. Comcast will hold naming rights to the new venue, with a formal name to be announced at a later date.

Site and Design

The arena is planned for the grounds of the former Spectrum, located near South Broad Street and Pattison Avenue within the South Philadelphia Sports Complex — the same site where the Spectrum stood from 1967 until its demolition between 2010 and 2011. The new venue will sit adjacent to Xfinity Mobile Arena, the current home of both franchises, which is expected to be demolished after the new arena opens.

Global design firm Populous and architect Moody Nolan are leading the project's design. The arena's exterior draws on the Spectrum's circular form, reinterpreted through stacked, cantilevered bands intended to create a recognizable profile as a South Philadelphia landmark. Outside the building, more than half an acre of outdoor fan plazas will include a broad arrival stair at the front entrance, along with food-and-beverage pavilions. The design team incorporated fan surveys, focus groups, and community engagement into the first-look renderings, with public review continuing through the approval process.

Financing and Ownership Structure

The project carries no direct taxpayer funding. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and Comcast Spectacor are financing the development on a 50-50 basis, making it a fully private capital undertaking. A groundbreaking is targeted for early 2027, subject to City Council and regulatory approvals.

"Philly fans deserve the best arena in the world, and we are excited to partner with Comcast to deliver just that. This privately funded arena will be the home to moments and memories that define this city for generations," said Josh Harris, Co-Founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and Managing Partner of the Philadelphia 76ers. "We have an incredible opportunity ahead of us and look forward to partnering with Mayor Parker and Council President Kenyatta Johnson to transform a site rich with history, while creating thousands of jobs, driving lasting economic impact and delivering an arena that honors the deep sports and entertainment culture of the city."

"This is a new era for Philadelphia sports. To build our future where Ed Snider and the Spectrum made history makes this project truly special. Working with HBSE, we are creating a world-class experience worthy of Philadelphia's incredible fans," said Brian Roberts, Chairman of Comcast Corporation. "None of this would be possible without great partners, and I'm deeply grateful to Dan Hilferty, Josh Harris, David Adelman, David Blitzer, and all the teams who worked so hard to get us here — we can't wait to bring championships to this new home."

Projected Economic Impact

The development is projected to create nearly 15,000 jobs and generate nearly $6 billion in economic activity over the next 10 years. Developers say the project will produce hundreds of millions of dollars in new tax revenue, with proceeds directed to the School District of Philadelphia and the city. The arena is also expected to drive activity for surrounding small and neighborhood businesses and expand community programming in the South Philadelphia sports district.

The adjacent Stateside Live! entertainment complex — formerly known as Xfinity Live! — recently underwent a $12 million to $15 million expansion and renovation, reflecting continued investment in the sports-district footprint ahead of the new arena's opening.

Timeline and Next Steps

The arena is scheduled to open ahead of the 2030 inaugural season of Philadelphia's WNBA expansion team, as well as the NBA and NHL 2030 seasons. The design and approval process remains ongoing, with additional community engagement and public review planned. More information is available at ThePhillyArena.com.

Sources

Comcast Spectacor — Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers Unveil First Look at New Arena (Sept. 8, 2026)