New analysis fuels debate over Portland's Keller vs PSU performing arts center
According to a recent Economic Impact Analysis conducted by Hunden Partners, the envisioned 3,200-seat performing arts center at Portland State University (PSU) is expected to produce an annual revenue of $98.2 million, surpassing the $84.9 million projected for a renovated Keller Auditorium. This report, released on April 29 by the PSU Foundation, indicates a 16% increase in spending, the creation of 378 jobs, and $1.8 million in lodging tax revenue. Advocates for the Keller, such as Elise Haas from Save the Keller, contend that the analysis fails to account for $50 million in yearly economic losses resulting from the venue's closure. Renovation costs for the Keller are estimated at $290 million, while the new PSU center could reach up to $447 million, with plans to open by 2030. A Metro report from March 2 highlighted $336 million in maintenance requirements for Portland's Centers for the Arts.
Key facts
- Hunden Partners analysis: PSU center generates $98.2M annual economic impact vs $84.9M for renovated Keller.
- PSU center would support 378 jobs, $17.9M in earnings, $1.8M in transient lodging taxes.
- Keller supporters claim study ignores $50M/year economic damage of closing the venue.
- Renovating Keller costs ~$290M; building new PSU center costs up to $447M.
- Keller at 222 S.W. Clay St. needs seismic upgrades; 2020 report warned of collapse risk.
- PSU Performing Arts + Culture Center at 310 S.W. Market St. includes 3,200-seat hall, 1,200-seat theater, hotel, conference center.
- Previous Hunden study found Portland cannot support two Broadway-capable centers.
- City Council decision pending; PSU targets 2030 opening.
- Metro report: $336M maintenance needed for Portland's5 Centers; management transfers July 1, 2027.
- 16-member Ex-Officio Table appointed by Mayor Keith Wilson advises on decision.
Entities
Institutions
- Portland State University
- Portland State University Foundation
- Hunden Partners
- Save the Keller
- Portland's5 Centers for the Arts
- Keller Auditorium
- Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
- Antoinette Hatfield Hall
- Brunish Theater
- Newmark Theatre
- Winningstad Theatre
- Portland Opera
- Oregon Ballet Theatre
- Metro
- City of Portland
- Multnomah County
- Bora Architecture & Interiors
Locations
- Portland
- Oregon
- United States
- 222 S.W. Clay St.
- 310 S.W. Market St.
- 1037 S.W. Broadway
- Southwest Main Street
- Chicago
- Illinois