Moda Center Funding Advances as Lawmakers Wrap Session; Pothole Frustrations Grow
Portland, OR – March 9, 2026 – Lawmakers back $365M for Moda Center, session wraps in Salem, pothole complaints rise, and clocks spring forward.
$365M Approved for Moda Center Overhaul
Oregon House lawmakers have approved a $365 million public funding package to renovate the aging Moda Center, a move supporters say will help secure the Trail Blazers in Portland for decades to come. The proposal, which now heads to Gov. Tina Kotek, relies on taxes generated within the Rose Quarter to fund upgrades.
Backers call it a major investment in the city’s economic and cultural future. Critics argue the project will still require significant contributions from the city and county, raising fresh debate about public spending priorities.
Legislative Session Comes to a Close
The vote came as Oregon’s 35-day legislative session wrapped up in Salem. Lawmakers passed a mix of budget fixes and policy bills, including measures responding to federal immigration enforcement and other high-profile issues.
The brisk session sets the stage for longer debates ahead, especially as local governments prepare their own budgets this spring.
Pothole Complaints Pile Up
Closer to home, Portland drivers are sounding off about worsening pothole conditions across the city. Recent reporting highlights growing frustration over cratered streets and delayed repairs after a wet winter.
City officials say maintenance crews are working through a backlog, but transportation funding pressures remain a sticking point as budget talks intensify.
Rain, Light Snow and Longer Evenings
Meanwhile, daylight saving time began early Sunday, giving Portlanders a sunset after 7 p.m. Forecasters expect light rain in the valley with snow levels dropping in the Cascades into Monday night.
No major weather advisories are in effect, but commuters should watch for slick spots if temperatures dip overnight.
Sources
https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/06/oregon-house-approves-365m-moda-center-renovation
https://www.opb.org/article/2026/03/07/oregon-legislative-session-ends-opb-first-look/
https://www.portlandmercury.com/good-morning-news/2026/03/09/48366654/good-morning-news-the-citys-pothole-crisis-portland-fire-basketball-may-be-delayed-and-the-us-most-likely-bombed-an-iranian-girls-scho
https://www.aol.com/articles/rainy-sunday-portland-offers-sunset-130000426.html
