Portland Approves Funding Framework to Keep Trail Blazers and Renovate Moda Center

Multnomah County approved a funding framework overnight allowing up to $101.6 million toward renovating Portland's Moda Center, home of the NBA's Trail Blazers and player Deni Avdija. This approval, passed 4-1, is a key step in a larger $600 million upgrade project but does not yet release funds. It sets the stage for negotiations between the county, Portland city officials, and the Trail Blazers organization, with final financing sources still unresolved. The funding is expected mainly from vehicle rental and tourism taxes, though some council members expressed doubts about fully covering the commitment.

Previously, Oregon state authorized up to $365 million in bonds for the arena's renovation, and Portland city is considering contributing up to $120 million. If all funding components are approved, the 31-year-old arena will undergo extensive upgrades and maintenance expected to continue over the next two decades. Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon has stated he will not finance the public portion, so local authorities are seeking budget solutions.

A time constraint exists as well: to access state funds, a long-term agreement on the Trail Blazers' continued use of the arena must be reached by the end of 2026. The team's current lease runs through 2030. While the process remains complex, Portland officials view the recent county decision as a significant move toward modernizing the Trail Blazers' home and ensuring the team's future in Oregon.