The MLS franchise, Philadelphia Union, is celebrating its 10^th season at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, bringing thousands of fans to Chester, but is it helping the city, asks Kenneth Burns for WHYY.

The stadium, conceived 10 years ago, was billed as an economic kick start for Chester, a destination with residencies, shops and restaurants.

But Anthony Mayfield said more could have been done as the stadium was built.

“Had people [really] believed more in the stadium, I think more could have been done with it,” he said.

The Union and the City of Chester say they are starting to see rewards for their perseverance.

Drake Nakaishi, executive director of the Chester Economic Development Authority, reports spinoff growth with more to come.

Power Home Remodeling moved from Newark, Delaware to Chester in 2011 for logistics, soccer and to be part of a community on the rise.

Power partnered with the Philadelphia Union to restart Chester-Upland’s high school soccer program and sponsored the team’s training complex.

The Union and the Riverfront Alliance of Delaware County are looking at proposals in the next few months for new development along the waterfront.

Read more about the stadium’s relationship to Chester here.

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