Full Breakdown
Oregon Legislature Approves $365 Million Moda Center Renovation Bill
3/7/2026, 6:30:16 AM
Key Legislative Action on Moda Center Renovations
On March 6, 2026, the Oregon House approved Senate Bill 1501, a $365 million funding bill aimed at renovating the Moda Center, home of the Portland Trail Blazers. The bill received overwhelming support in the House, following its passage in the Senate earlier that week. This legislative action is seen as crucial for retaining the Trail Blazers in Portland, with Governor Tina Kotek expected to sign the bill into law.
Legislative Framework and Financial Mechanisms
Senate Bill 1501 allows the state to partner with local governments to oversee the renovation project. It mandates that the project’s scope, budget, and construction timeline receive approval before any financing can proceed. The state plans to issue up to $365 million in bonds to fund the renovations, functioning similarly to a loan where the state borrows money from investors and repays it over time. Additional provisions are included to protect taxpayers, such as requiring a finalized sale of the Trail Blazers, a minimum 20-year lease agreement with the team, and financial commitments from both the city of Portland and Multnomah County.
Support from Key Figures
Supporters of the renovation bill, including Dewayne Hankins, President of Business Operations for the Trail Blazers, expressed gratitude to lawmakers for their support. Hankins stated, “This is a great day for our community,” emphasizing the economic growth potential the renovations could bring to the Lower Albina neighborhood. House Majority Leader Julie Fahey highlighted the personal significance of the Blazers to Oregonians, stating, “The Blazers are our team. They create jobs. They make our state more vibrant.”
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the bill's passage, some dissenting voices emerged. House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer indicated skepticism regarding the likelihood of House Republicans supporting the suspension of legislative rules necessary for the bonding bill's passage. This reflects a broader concern among some lawmakers about the financial implications of such public investments.
Broader Implications for Oregon
The renovations at the Moda Center are positioned as a vital investment not only for the Trail Blazers but also for the economic and cultural identity of Oregon. Representative Tawna Sanchez noted that public investment in the arena would benefit historically displaced members of the Lower Albina community and reinforce Oregon's values in economic development.
What's Next
Following the approval of Senate Bill 1501, the Oregon Legislature is expected to address a separate bonding bill necessary for financing the renovations. If passed, this would finalize the funding framework for the project, allowing the renovations to commence and potentially transforming the Moda Center into a modern entertainment hub.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a great day for our community,” — Dewayne Hankins, President of Business Operations, Portland Trail Blazers
- “The Blazers are our team. They create jobs. They make our state more vibrant. They are an asset that we should fight to keep.” — Julie Fahey, House Majority Leader
