Portland advances planning for a potential 3,000-seat PSU venue while studying Keller’s future
Portland City Council adopted a resolution September 9, 2026, advancing pre-development for a potential approximately 3,000-seat Broadway-capable performing arts venue at Portland State University while directing parallel planning for the future of Keller Auditorium.
The action moves the proposed PSU venue forward as part of the proposed Performing Arts + Culture Center at 310/330 SW Lincoln Street. It does not approve construction or commit new City capital funding.
PSU venue remains in pre-development
Resolution 37752 supports planning for a potential City-owned venue with a goal of opening in 2030. That date is a planning target, not a guaranteed opening date, and the project still requires additional financial and policy approvals.
City staff are directed to work with Portland State University on a detailed financial plan, including a fully defined capital stack, funding timelines, operating and maintenance responsibilities, the proposed City contribution, anticipated public and private partner funding, total estimated project costs and material financial risks.
The resolution specifically states that its adoption does not authorize, appropriate or commit new City funds for development or construction of the proposed PSU venue beyond funding previously authorized by the City Council.
Next agreement deadline is December 1
The resolution directs the City to develop a Project Commitment Agreement with Portland State University by December 1, 2026. The agreement would establish the project’s scope, schedule, governance framework and shared planning commitment.
It cannot financially obligate the City to fund development or construction without later City Council approval. Before any agreement creates new City financial obligations, staff must return to the council with the detailed financial plan and proposed funding strategy.
The resolution was adopted as amended by an 8-4 council vote, according to the City’s official record.
Keller planning will continue
At the same time, the City will continue planning for Keller Auditorium. The resolution calls for community engagement, a market study, financial analysis and initial design work to evaluate a possible future venue of approximately 1,200 to 1,800 seats.
That range describes the current planning scope, not a final design, approved renovation or decision to downsize Keller. Broadway programming and City investment at Keller are directed to continue while PSU planning and potential development move forward.
What Portland residents should watch
The next major milestones are the financial plan, continued Keller studies and the proposed PSU-City commitment agreement due by December 1. Those steps will help determine whether the two-venue strategy is financially and operationally feasible.
Future decisions could affect Broadway scheduling, arts access, venue jobs, downtown activity, public spending and the long-term use of Keller Auditorium. Residents, arts organizations and nearby businesses should expect additional planning, public engagement and later council votes before construction or major new City funding is approved.
Sources
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