Portland State Univ. requests $44M from city ahead of approval of new Broadway venue plan
KATU • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Portland's City Life Committee will vote on a proposal to partner with Portland State University (PSU) to build a new 3,000-seat Broadway-capable theater as part of a $450 million academic building project on the University Place Hotel site.
- Approval would initiate design and financial planning but not commit city funds; however, PSU requests a $44 million city commitment by December 1 to secure state bond money and attract private funding.
- Supporters argue the new venue would enhance Portland's live theater industry, create jobs, and boost PSU’s arts education reputation, while critics caution that committing funds before finalizing plans is premature.
- The existing Keller Auditorium would continue hosting productions until the new venue opens in 2030, after which it would be downsized and renovated, raising concerns about its future financial viability and need for subsidies.
- The City Life Committee vote is scheduled for Tuesday at 2 p.m., marking an early but significant step in the project’s development.
