Chinatown leaders, Jason Kelce react to Philadelphia 76ers arena deal in Center City [Video]

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Members of the Chinatown community say they feel blindsided by Wednesday’s announcement from Mayor Cherelle Parker that her administration had reached a deal with the 76ers to build a new arena in Center City.

“With no warning whatsoever, we got this announcement,” said Mohan Seshadri, executive director of the Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance, which plays a key role in the Save Chinatown Coalition.

“It’s a shame and for us, this really goes to show that this whole process has really been a sham from the beginning,” he said.

Seshadri spent much of his day Thursday in meetings with people and groups who are worried about what the mayor’s decision means for Chinatown.

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