Big Changes Coming to Portland's Sports Arena

Portland is at a turning point with its main sports arena, Moda Center. The building is 31 years old and hasn’t had major updates since it opened. Leaders want to spend $365 million from state bonds to renovate it. They also need the city and county to add $222 million more. The goal is keeping the Trail Blazers around and bringing better events to Portland. The state just passed a law making Portland’s government and state equal owners of the arena. This lets the state borrow money for repairs. But the city still needs to confirm its share of the funding. Some council members doubt using clean energy funds for this project. Governor Tina Kotek says most council members support the plan and wants the city to move fast.The Trail Blazers’ lease is about to expire after a short extension. Without a new deal, the team could leave town by 2030. The team’s new owner, Tom Dundon, hasn’t promised to stay. He says full funding for renovations would make relocation less likely. Keeping the team isn’t just about the Blazers—live events and concerts also matter for Portland’s economy. Major events like the 2030 NCAA Women’s Final Four depend on arena upgrades. A three-summer renovation plan could finish just in time. Protests and debates are growing as the June deadline for the city’s decision approaches. Kotek warns that without these changes, Oregon might miss out on big sports and entertainment opportunities.