City Council Unanimously Approves Resolution on the Future of the Keller Auditorium

Press Release

Resolution includes strategy for two Broadway-capable venues and authorizes completion of a Market Feasibility Analysis.

Portland, Ore.- In a major step forward for Portland's performing arts scene, Portland City Council today unanimously approved a resolution that will shape the future of the Keller Auditorium and enhance the city's arts and culture economy.

The resolution outlines a strategic plan for developing two Broadway-capable venues, which includes renovating the existing Keller Auditorium and developing a new performing-arts facility at Portland State University. This strategy ensures that Portland remains a premier destination for Broadway productions and other performances while minimizing disruptions to the schedule of events during any future renovation of the Keller Auditorium.

The resolution also authorizes a comprehensive Market Feasibility Analysis to evaluate optimal seating capacities, financial feasibility, and construction timelines for both proposed venues. The findings of the analysis will provide critical data to inform decisions on the size and scope of the projects.

"This next chapter for the Keller Auditorium will shape the cultural and social fabric of our city for the next century," said Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler. "This resolution will restore our beloved Keller stage while also creating a new premier venue at Portland State University, a strategy that I believe will achieve the best possible outcome for all of Portland."

"This project is an important investment in Portland's economic growth and community pride," said Deputy City Administrator Donnie Oliveira. "With the approved resolution, we're preserving an important part of our arts landscape and paving the way for economic growth that benefits everyone in our city. These venues will draw visitors, support local businesses, and create jobs, all while providing our community with vibrant spaces to gather and celebrate the arts."

"We applaud the decision to move ahead with a reimagined, renovated Keller Auditorium. Removing the cloud of uncertainty and committing to the future of this beloved, profitable venue, is the right decision for the future of Portland's arts and culture economy and for the future of downtown," said Bob Naito, co-chair of the Halprin Landscape Conservancy. "On behalf of the Halprin Landscape Conservancy Board of Directors and the many community organizations and individuals who have advocated for a renovated Keller, we look forward to working with the City and PSU to turn this exciting and inclusive vision into a reality."

"Portland is embarking on an exciting new project that will have a century's worth of impact on arts and culture - and the City of Portland won't go it alone. As one of the most active developers in downtown Portland and a proven partner to governments and nonprofits throughout the region, PSU is stepping up to deliver on this visionary project for all Oregonians," said PSU President Ann Cudd. "We've always known Portland can do big things and we can't wait to raise the curtain on the city's next great era."

Highlights of the Resolution:

• Two Broadway-capable venues: A plan to move forward with both the renovation of the existing Keller Auditorium and the development of a new performing-arts venue at Portland State University, ensuring Portland can continue to attract and host Broadway productions and other major performances. "Broadway capable" refers to several specific logistics required to host Broadway performances including stage size, lighting, loading/unloading capabilities and more. It does not limit either venue to hosting only Broadway performances.
• Market Feasibility Analysis: An assessment of optimal seating capacity, financial feasibility, construction timelines, and more.
• Collaboration with Portland State University: The City will sign a Letter of Intent with Portland State University for future site development including traffic-study impacts, building programming, development concepts and more.
• Project Oversight: A project steering committee would be established to oversee the financial planning, construction management, and overall coordination of the proposed strategy.
• Traffic Study: Staff would explore the development of Third Avenue, beginning with a traffic study to evaluate the impact of a potential street closure. Development of Third Avenue would be considered as part of the future proposal to create a destination where visitors could enjoy a variety of experiences, drawing and keeping more people downtown.

View the Resolution

Background

On Aug. 14, following more than a month of public engagement, City Council asked City staff and project teams from Halprin Land Conservancy and Portland State University to collaborate on a larger vision, considering community needs, strengthening arts and culture and revitalizing downtown.

Like most older civic buildings, the Keller was not built to withstand a major earthquake. A 2020 seismic report provided a preliminary analysis of renovations needed to meet modern safety standards. Guest amenities, backstage facilities, and mechanical and production systems are also outdated; Keller Auditorium needs modern upgrades to continue operating long into the future.
Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach that celebrates investments in creative placemaking, supports arts and culture, and enhances Portland's Central City, the City brought together the two project teams to develop this strategic, cohesive vision that addresses community needs and strengthens arts, culture and downtown's revitalization.

About the Spectator Venues Program

The Spectator Venues and Visitor Activities Program oversees City-owned venues at the Rose Quarter and Providence Park. These venues attract millions of visitors each year and contribute significantly to Portland's local economy. The Program also supports travel, tourism and economic growth through partnerships with Travel Portland, Sport Oregon, and others. Funding for Program activities come from the Spectator Venues and Visitor Activities Fund which receives revenues from ticket fees and parking charges at City-owned venues as well as a small annual allocation from the Visitor Facilities Trust Account. The Trust Account receives dedicated funding from transient lodging taxes and vehicle rental fees.

The Program is part of the City's Community and Economic Development Service Area which includes the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, the Portland Housing Bureau, Portland Permitting and Development, and Prosper Portland.

About the Office of Arts & Culture

The Office of Arts & Culture puts arts at the center of public life for all Portlanders by supporting a diverse array of creative expressions - from music and performance art to visual arts and beyond. The Office of Arts & Culture manages the City's arts-related investments, including the Percent For Art Fund, General Fund, and Arts Access Fund. These resources support arts education in public schools, grants for artists and nonprofit organizations, performing arts venues, cultural planning, strategic initiatives, and public art. The Office of Arts & Culture also oversees the City-owned theaters operated by Portland'5 Centers for the Arts.

The Office of Arts & Culture is part of the City's Vibrant Communities Service Area which includes Portland Parks & Recreation, Portland Children's Levy, Support Services, and the Office of Arts & Culture.

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