SALEM, OR — State and local leaders testified in support of Senate Bill 1501, which outlines a path to renovate the Moda Center into a premier venue for sports, entertainment and community events without raising taxes.
The bill, sponsored by Senate President Rob Wagner, authorizes the Oregon Department of Administrative Services to enter into agreements with public bodies or management entities to jointly own and operate the Moda Center. It establishes the Oregon Arena Fund to support arena upgrades, operations and long-term maintenance, funded through a portion of tax revenue generated in and around the arena.
Governor Tina Kotek said the proposal represents a smart investment in Oregon’s future.
“Every generation of Oregonians has invested in building community spaces that bring people together,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “This is our opportunity to secure Portland’s future, revitalize historic neighborhoods and strengthen Oregon’s economic competitiveness. Upgrading Moda Center is a smart investment in Oregon’s economic future. This is Oregon’s moment to step up, and Senate Bill 1501 is the way to do that.”
Senate President Rob Wagner said the legislation is essential to preserving economic momentum in the region.
“Supporting the Moda Center with the Trail Blazers as its anchor tenant is a step this Legislature needs to take to keep millions of dollars in economic activity in Oregon, continue to draw major events and tourists to our state, and preserve the growth and investment we are seeing in the neighborhood surrounding the arena,” said Senate President Rob Wagner.
House Majority Leader Ben Bowman said the Blazers carry both personal meaning and economic significance for many Oregonians.
“For those of us who grew up watching this team, who suffered through the 2000 Western Conference Finals, who leapt to their feet watching Brandon Roy hit buzzer beaters, who celebrated the return of Damian Lillard, for us, this isn’t abstract. It’s personal. And it’s also practical,” said House Majority Leader Ben Bowman. “The Blazers are proof that something can be both emotionally meaningful and economically strategic. Investing in an anchor institution like this is not about nostalgia, it’s about foresight.”
Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama said the project would support job creation and local businesses.
“Oregon’s arena has the power to spark economic vitality along with community spirit,” said Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama. “I’m eager to work with other state and local leaders to grow local jobs at the arena and in surrounding businesses.”
Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson said public investment in the Moda Center is vital to maintaining economic recovery.
“Our city, county and state can’t afford to let this opportunity pass, and we’re here today to show the kind of teamwork Rip City expects,” said Chair Jessica Vega Pederson. “The Moda Center is a crucial economic engine for our state, and engines need maintenance over time. Our shared public investment will ensure we keep our economic recovery on track, and that’s essential for fostering the work we do at the County to address homelessness, behavioral health and public safety.”
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said the renovation would have lasting statewide benefits.
“Renovating the Moda Center isn’t about one building, it’s about Oregon’s future,” said Mayor Keith Wilson. “This project strengthens our economy, supports communities across the state and ensures Oregon remains competitive for major events and investment. With state partnership, it becomes a generational investment in jobs, culture and long-term economic relevance.”
The Moda Center is responsible for an estimated $670 million in annual regional economic impact, supporting nearly 4,500 jobs and hosting more than 240 days of programming each year. The Portland Trail Blazers bring 41 home games annually, along with consistent year-round activity and national exposure.
Senate Bill 1501 enables the state and city to partner as co-owners of the facility. It creates a dedicated fund supported by redirected state tax revenues related to payroll and activity in the Rose Quarter. The bill restricts the use of general state funds and does not authorize new taxes.
The fund will be eligible to receive transfers only if a men’s professional basketball team is under contract to lease the facility. The legislation also requires the Oregon Department of Administrative Services to submit quarterly reports to the Legislature on project progress, spending and revenue through January 2032.
Senate Bill 1501 declares an emergency and would take effect upon passage.
