Sixers Arena

The Sixers successfully pushed to build a new arena in Center City. Now the controversial project is in the rearview after an about-face no one saw coming.

“We have built a generation of leaders that will never give up, and have the drive to continue to build the city that we deserve," said two activists.

The African American Chamber of Commerce, Philly's NAACP president and other groups and civic leaders supported the Center City project as an economic win for Black residents.

Comcast promised to be a minority stakeholder if the city lands a team. NBA commissioner Adam Silver mentioned “more teams to come” in remarks.

The sudden turn of events comes after Philly City Council recently approved a controversial plan to build an arena in Center City near Chinatown.

City Council members fume while activists celebrate the news. The mayor is set to speak Monday at 11 a.m.

The decision is rooted in a deal struck with Comcast Spectacor, which hopes to transform the South Philly sports complex over the next decade.

The controversial development is now on track to open in Center City in 2031.

The arena proposal is expected to receive full City Council approval this week.

Roughly 70 vehicles disrupted traffic on Market Street to simulate traffic congestion before and after events at the proposed 18,500-seat arena.

The Sixers have not yet agreed to proposed amendments to a legislative package containing the approvals the team needs to build the $1.3 billion arena.

City Council is expected to take a preliminary vote on the arena next week. The team says it needs the body to approve development before the end of the year.

Supporters and opponents showed up for a final, testy, raucous hearing on the Sixers arena proposal Monday night.

Lawmakers must vote enabling legislation out of committee by Dec. 12 to authorize the arena before the end of the year.

Here’s what you need to know as City Council moves toward crucial votes at arena hearings.