The 76ers and City Council: Negotiating a $50 Million+ Community Benefits Agreement

The Philadelphia 76ers are making waves in Center City with their ambitious $1.3 billion arena proposal—but the road to approval hinges on their negotiations with City Council President Kenyatta Johnson’s office. At the heart of the discussions? A community benefits agreement (CBA) that could exceed $50 million.

David Gould, the 76ers’ chief corporate affairs officer, confirmed ongoing talks with Johnson, stating, “We are in conversations with the council president about the overall CBA number.” The statement signals the team’s willingness to address community concerns and move the project forward before City Council wraps up for winter recess on December 19.

What’s at Stake?

The proposal has drawn scrutiny during recent hearings, with council members raising critical questions about the project’s potential impact. Chief among the concerns are:

• Community needs: Will the agreement provide enough resources to benefit residents and businesses, particularly in nearby neighborhoods like Chinatown?

  
  

• Chinatown’s future: How will the arena affect this historic and culturally rich community?

  
  

• SEPTA’s costs: The transit authority could face millions in added operational expenses due to increased demand and changes to infrastructure.

  
  

With only three regular council meetings left this year, the clock is ticking for the 76ers to secure approval. The team insists that meeting this deadline is crucial to staying on track with their construction timeline.

Final Stages of Negotiation

As the discussions enter the final stages, the pressure is mounting for all parties to reach an agreement. Johnson’s office, council members, and the 76ers are working to strike a balance between the city’s needs and the team’s ambitions.

This isn’t just about building an arena—it’s about shaping the future of Center City. With millions of dollars on the line and the potential to transform a major part of Philadelphia, the next few weeks will be pivotal for both the team and the community.

For more details on this ongoing story, check out the original reporting by the Philadelphia Inquirer.