PHILADELPHIA - Major renovations are coming to the home of Philadelphia's major sports team thanks to a new partnership.
The Phillies announced on Thursday that they are joining Comcast Spectacor on a $2.5 billion development project for the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.
"The two organizations will collaborate to make the destination a world-class, live-work-play sports and entertainment district."
Xfinity Live! to make $12M upgrades, enhancing outdoor plaza, adding new gathering areas
Xfinity Live! is getting a $12 million facelift after Comcast Spectacor and The Cordish Companies announced plans to upgrade the popular South Philly spot adding new gathering areas and improving old ones.
The project will be completed in two different phases over the next several years.
Phase One:
- New, mid-sized concert venue, hotel, retail shops and an outdoor plaza
- Upgrades to Xfinity Live!
These developments will involve lots between Pattison Avenue and the Wells Fargo Center.
Phase Two:
- Another hotel, residential units, more retail, restaurants, office space and significant green space
- Dedicated "Phillies Plaza" adjacent to Citizens Bank Park to provide gathering spaces and immersive experiences
The second, and final phase, will expand north of Pattison Avenue to lots currently controlled by the Phillies from Broad Street to Citizens Bank Park, along with additional development around the Wells Fargo Center.
The Phillies say Comcast Spectacor already has development rights for Phase One, and that they will be seeking approvals and rights for Phase Two from the City of Philadelphia.
No start dates have been released for either phase, but Phase One is expected to be complete by 2028.
"With the creation of new spaces and experiences, Philadelphians and visitors will have more opportunities to celebrate the passion and pride we have for our city and our teams," said John Middleton, managing partner and CEO of the Philadelphia Phillies.
FOX 29's Jeff Cole spoke with Comcast Spectacor executive, Phil Laws, who is ready to give Philly something refreshing.
"Not only come here for events, but come here to work, to live and enjoy Philadelphia in an entirely different way," said Laws. "They want to have this wonderful Phillies Plaza, a great activation space. It changes in terms of scope gives a lot more land to work with."
The Phillies jump on board as the Sixers push to build a new area in the Market East neighborhood in the face of some community opposition. The NBA team declined to comment.
South Philly resident Ronald Cdrone says the plan is okay if it includes a gate for his community.
"Just think about gating it so this way we won’t have to worry about coming home and parking," said Cdrone.