Halprin Landscape Conservancy News Today

Portland leaders are weighing three proposals for the Keller Auditorium; a massive renovation and two replacement plans. Public testimony showed a clear favorite.

Portland City Council is months away from choosing where the performing arts center could land.

The $10 million donation from Jordan Schnitzer to Portland State University for an art museum comes at the same time PSU is putting together a bid to replace Keller Auditorium.

The Keller Auditorium is receiving increased support for renovations that would create a wider plaza connecting the auditorium to Keller Fountain and improve its seismic acoustics, bathrooms, and accessible seating.

Backing for a renovation of the Keller Auditorium gains momentum as plans unveiled for a 21st Century Keller. Supporters say changes will increase its use for events.

Portland State University and the Lloyd Center have proposed design concepts for a new venue.

Despite proposals to replace the Keller Auditorium with a new performing arts venue, Portland leaders and organizations are still pushing to invest in the historic building. The Keller Auditorium was first constructed in 1917. Over a century later in 2020, a study unveiled the need to renovate the building with seismic upgrades, improved restrooms and accessible seating.

Two out of three proposals call for a new performing arts center to be built; the other would be a massive redevelopment of the current Keller Auditorium.

Later this month, the Portland City Council will consider a proposal by Portland State University to replace the aging Keller Auditorium with a new concert hall that’s better suited for Broadway shows and designed to meet modern earthquake standards.

As city officials begin to weigh whether to replace or renovate Portland's Keller Auditorium, the group behind renovating the landmark has shared new renderings for their vision.