Photo: New Jersey Economic Development Authority
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has released an artist's rendering of a proposed arena for the Philadelphia 76ers on Camden's waterfront. The proposed site, located north of the Ben Franklin Bridge, is currently owned by the state and is ready for development. The rendering showcases a state-of-the-art arena surrounded by open space, new housing, restaurants, and office space. A dock for a ferry service to transport fans from Philadelphia is also included in the design.
The NJEDA's CEO, Tim Sullivan, expressed his excitement about the potential transformation of Camden's waterfront. "The proposed project is more than just a state-of-the-art arena; it's open space, new housing, restaurants, and office space, which will help bring new, good-paying jobs to the city," Sullivan said in a statement to NBC Philadelphia.
The NJEDA has offered the 76ers up to $400 million in tax incentives to relocate to Camden, where the team already has a practice facility. The proposed move is still under negotiation, with the 76ers' lease agreement with the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia set to expire in 2031. The team has called New Jersey's offer "thoughtful and compelling," and is taking all potential options seriously.