Landmark State Investment

Before the Oregon State Legislature adjourned in June 2025, the Portland Performing Arts + Culture Center received $137.5 million in state bond funding — a win for Portland and for Oregon that reflects the project's statewide significance.

“Investments in arts and culture are investments in economic resilience, in education and the vitality of our downtown,” said Representative Dacia Grayber, whose district includes Portland State and who has been a vocal champion for the project from the very beginning. “We are choosing with these bonds to boldly sing the song of our city and who we can be for generations to come. I’m proud to represent a district that is home to a project so deeply connected to our region's future.”

The state investment includes $85 million in Article XI-G bonds for the construction of the Portland State University-owned 1,200-seat theater and academic space and $52.5 million in Article XI-F(1) bonds to develop on-site parking infrastructure. These PSU-owned spaces will combine with the city-owned Broadway-capable venue to create a multi-use arts and culture complex envisioned to serve Portland for a century.

The state bond funding is paired with $7.6 million from Prosper Portland and $12.5 million in philanthropic pledges, reflecting strong momentum and support for the center and the possibilities it holds for Oregon’s arts and economy leadership.

The Performing Arts + Culture Center is part of a coordinated effort by city and regional leaders to catalyze downtown revitalization and expand opportunities for performing arts, learning and cultural celebration. It will welcome students, artists, educators and audiences from across Oregon and will serve as an anchor in Portland across generations.