PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Philadelphia 76ers plan to build a new arena called 76 Place in Market East, adjacent to Chinatown, by 2031.

“There is so much power together and it is an opportunity to be part of the community,” said Lindsey Farrell of Point Breeze.

Despite the enthusiasm of some residents, many say the Center City proposal will be harmful to people who live and work in Chinatown.

“Today is another opportunity for the city itself to stand up and say no to an arena in the heart of our city,” said Mohan Seshadri, executive director of the Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance (APIPA).

On Saturday, opponents of the proposed Center City arena gathered at City Hall. The event focused on the damage the arena would cause to Chinatown.

“The focus is really on money and greed, not on the permanent residents and the impact of the people who live here, the businesses and a thriving community,” said Dylan O’Donoghue of West Philadelphia.

Project developers declined to comment on the demonstration.

A recent impact study published by the city found that while the proposed arena could bring economic benefits, area residents and businesses may have to pay the price.

The Save Chinatown Coalition hired a firm to conduct its own poll. Of the 700 people surveyed, the organization found that 56 percent oppose the arena in Center City.

Action News also heard from some city residents who are concerned about the proximity of Jefferson Hospital.

“An arena would only increase crowding and make it even harder for the hospital to get the resources it needs,” said Pari Pamcholy, a medical student at Jefferson.

While the developers of 76 Place are pushing and working to get their arena approved in Center City, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is pushing a proposal to build the arena in Camden.

He even offered the Sixers $400 million in tax credits and outlined plans for a sprawling mixed-use waterfront development.

As for the next step, the team says they are running out of time and will explore all available options.