PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Comcast Spectacor is proposing a major new development plan that envisions a dramatic overhaul of the sports complex in South Philadelphia with the creation of a new concert venue, hotel and retail shopping district.
The plans released Tuesday start with major renovations at Xfinity Live later this year.
Visitors can expect enhancements to the outdoor plaza for game days and other events, as well as improvements to the interior and exterior of the building. Several new gathering areas and terraces will be added, including an outdoor balcony on the second floor. Plans include built-in seating areas on the plaza, as well as planters and horticultural improvements.
The announcement came Tuesday from Comcast Spectacor and The Cordish Companies. The $12 million project is a joint venture between the two companies, both partners in the construction and operation of Xfinity Live.
However, this project is just the first phase of Xfinity Live’s remodeling. Dan Hilferty, Comcast Spectacor chairman and CEO, said this is the “next evolution” for the site. In a statement, he said the first phase of construction will include the aforementioned enhancements as well as a 5,500-seat concert venue, a hotel, retail shops and new restaurants.
The second phase envisions “creating a live-work-play community in and around the existing sports and entertainment venues,” potentially featuring more retail and restaurants, residences, office space and green space.
Phase 1 construction will begin this year, and the plaza enhancements are expected to wrap up by late 2025 or early 2026. Work will be completed in stages in order to avoid disruptions to the operation. Comcast Spectacor aims to complete the concert venue, hotel, retail shops and restaurants by 2028.
Phase 2 is more aspirational. Comcast Spectacor said it is trying to build stakeholder support and working with the city for development rights. If all goes according to plan, Phase 2 would be complete in 10 years.
In a written statement, Erin Seifert, director of operations for Xfinity Live, says they are excited to provide a refreshed experience for the millions of guests estimated to pass through the facility every year.