Trail Blazers expected to extend Moda Center lease in Portland
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Trail Blazer fans, make some noise: Portland’s reputation as Rip City is expected to remain for the next six years.
Next week, Portland City Council will consider two ordinances to extend a short-term lease between the city and Rip City Management for Moda Center.
Rip City Management’s current lease will end in 2025, but the proposed agreement would keep the Blazers at the Moda Center through their 2030 season with a possible extension into 2035.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said the city’s partnership with the Blazers is a critical part of revitalizing the Rose Quarter, noting that it is “central to Portland’s identity and civic pride.”
“This bridge agreement is an exciting step towards a long-term partnership with Rip City Management and the Trail Blazers to maintain world-class sports and entertainment in Portland for years to come,” Wheeler said.
City leaders say the agreement gives Portland officials more time to develop a major renovation of the Moda Center in an effort to commit the basketball team to the city. Currently, the arena is the oldest to have never undergone a major renovation in the NBA.
“The Trail Blazers and Rip City are a key part of who we are as a community—a source of civic pride and identity across Portland and all of Oregon,” said Dewayne Hankins, the president of business operations for the Trail Blazers and Rip City Management.
Portland City Council will consider the ordinances on Aug. 7.