A new study has been released that evaluates the potential impact that the new proposed Philadelphia 76ers arena in Chinatown would have on the neighborhood, writes Aaron Moselle for WHYY.

Consultants on the study have come to the conclusion that the development “could potentially result in the loss of Chinatown’s core identity and regional significance.”

It denotes increased traffic congestion and the potential for displacement as a result of increased property values as major reasons why

econ“Although the project will not lead to direct housing displacement, there is evidence for increased indirect displacement of small businesses and low- and fixed-income individuals through gentrification and loss of cultural identity in Chinatown if the 76 Place were built,” researchers concluded.

Since plans for a new Sixers arena in Chinatown was announced, the city has released a community impact assessment, an economic impact analysis, a design consulting, and a traffic, transportation and parking analysis.

The team highlights that the project would help rebuild and repair blocks east of City Hall, which can be described as a disjointed stretch of shops, government buildings, and tourist attractions that have floundered.

However, the report found the arena’s impact on Market East to be “inconclusive.”

Read more about the findings of the Sixers arena impact study in WHYY.

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