Arena for 76ers and Flyers to open in 2030, marking ‘new era’

The 76ers and Flyers unveiled images of their new arena at the former Spectrum site in South Philadelphia, which the organizations call the largest entirely privately funded project in the city’s history.

The arena is now slated to open ahead of the 2030 WNBA season, when Philadelphia’s expansion team begins playing. The Sixers, owned by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), have partnered with Comcast Spectacor on the new arena 50-50 after spending more than a decade as tenants.

“This is a new era for sports in Philadelphia,” said Comcast Chairman Brian Roberts. “Building our future with Ed Snyder and Spectrum making history makes this project truly special. Working with HBSE, we are creating a world-class experience worthy of Philadelphia’s incredible fans.”

The Spectrum-inspired design includes more than half an acre of outdoor gathering space with fan areas, food and drink options, and a large entry staircase inspired by the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

“Philadelphia fans deserve the best arena in the world, and we are excited to partner with Comcast to deliver just that,” said Sixers managing partner Josh Harris. “This privately funded arena will be home to moments and memories that will define this city for generations.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver added: “I am thrilled to see the first images of what promises to be an extraordinary home for NBA and WNBA basketball, as well as many other world-class events. In addition to the incredible experience the new arena will bring to fans, I thank HBSE and Comcast for making such a significant economic investment in Philadelphia.”

For the Flyers, the move returns the team to the stadium where it began playing in 1967 and won its only two Stanley Cups.

Since taking over as Flyers governor in 2023, Dan Hilferty has also overseen a restructuring of Philadelphia’s front office and made returning the franchise to consistent Stanley Cup contention a priority.

“This new arena will be a state-of-the-art home worthy of the Flyers, their fans and the entire city,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. “Comcast Spectacor and HBSE’s commitment to this project reflects a shared belief in the future of Philadelphia and a long-term investment in the economic vitality of the city.”

The organizations project the arena will create approximately 15,000 jobs and generate nearly $6 billion in economic activity over the next decade, as well as hundreds of millions of dollars in new tax revenue that will benefit the city and School District of Philadelphia.