As expected, the City of Philadelphia appealed the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records’ decision. The appeal is designed to delay release of records related to the Philadelphia 76ers’ proposal to build a basketball arena atop Jefferson Station.
Sixers’ lobbyists began meeting behind closed doors with public officials about 76 Place in April 2022. Nearly two years later, a project the 76ers’ billionaire owners thought would be a slam dunk is far from over. The Philadelphia Inquirer recently reported:
The 76ers’ development team last year twice delayed its self-imposed deadline for winning Council approvals needed to build an arena on East Market Street, such as zoning changes. But it’s more likely than ever that the controversial plan will go before lawmakers before their summer recess at the end of June.
Councilmember Mark Squilla, whose 1st District includes the proposed site, will be at the center of the debate. He has said he doesn’t expect to receive drafts of the legislation until after the city completes its much-anticipated impact studies, which have been delayed and are expected to come out soon. And he has promised to give community groups 30 days to review the legislation before introducing it.
Legislation won’t be introduced until late February or later, meaning it may coincide with budget negotiations.
David Adelman has played the race card to try to stomp out opposition to the 76ers’ transit-oriented project in a city “without a viable transit system.” A self-serving group of jackleg preachers gave 76 Place their blessing.
But in the words of choir director and gospel singer Kirk Franklin, “It ain’t over.”
PHL Watchdog 