Keast & Hood has announced its role on the project team for Philadelphia’s new sports and entertainment arena, planned for the historic Spectrum grounds in South Philadelphia. In collaboration with Thornton Tomasetti, Keast & Hood is serving as a structural engineering partner for the future home of the Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers, and the city’s first WNBA expansion team.

Targeted to open in 2030, the new arena represents a major investment in the future of Philadelphia sports, entertainment, and community life. The privately funded project is being developed by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) and Comcast Spectacor, with arena design led by global design firm Populous and architecture firm Moody Nolan.

The design draws inspiration from the legacy of the Spectrum while establishing a new identity for the next generation of Philadelphia sports. Stacked, cantilevered exterior bands will create a distinctive profile while expansive outdoor plazas and gathering spaces will connect the venue to the surrounding sports complex, creating new opportunities for year-round activity.

Designed as more than a home for professional sports, the arena will accommodate concerts, live entertainment, and community programming while delivering a next-generation experience for fans and visitors. The project is anticipated to create nearly 15,000 jobs and generate approximately $6 billion in economic activity over the next decade.

For Keast & Hood, the project represents an opportunity to contribute our structural engineering expertise to a transformative project in the city our firm has called home for more than 70 years.

“We are incredibly proud to be part of the team shaping the next chapter of Philadelphia’s sports legacy,” said Denise Richards, PE, Partner. “The scale, visibility, and significance of this project make it an extraordinary opportunity for our firm, and we look forward to collaborating with Thornton Tomasetti and the entire project team to help bring this vision to life.”

As the project advances through design, Keast & Hood looks forward to helping create a new Philadelphia landmark – one designed to carry forward the energy, history, and passion of the city’s sports community for generations to come.