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City Officials, Developers Say 'Philly Live' Complex Will Mean Lots Of Jobs

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Officials involved in the construction of a new entertainment and shopping complex on the former site of the Spectrum in South Philadelphia provided an update today on the project, focusing on the number of jobs the project is creating.

Mayor Michael Nutter, Comcast-Spectacor president Peter Luukko, and developer Reed Cordish all said that in tough times like these, it's projects like this that will keep the city going.

"Philly Live will have created 500 construction jobs and 400 permanent jobs -- it could not be a better time for that," said the mayor.  "Construction contracts are targeted at 25 to 30 percent for minority business enterprises.  (The) construction workforce (will be) 50 percent local residents."

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(Mark Washington. Credit: Michelle Durham)

Mark Washington (right), the owner of City Mechanical, says he is grateful for the opportunity to put people to work.

"It has really helped our business and help keep our guys employed, which is great," he said today.

The "Philly Live" entertainment, retail, and dining development is being built on the former Spectrum site in the heart of the South Philadelphia sports complex, and will feature dining, shopping, and a permanent stage for events (see previous story).

It is slated to open next spring.

Reported by Michelle Durham, KYW Newsradio 1060

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