Renovation plans for Portland’s historic Keller Auditorium gain momentum
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Backing for a renovation of the Keller Auditorium is gaining momentum as the effort to bring forth a “21st Century Keller” continues.
Earlier this month, the Halprin Landscape Conservancy, City of Portland, and Metro unveiled plans to the Metro Council for a new vision of the cultural landmark. It involves paving over Third Avenue to create a wider plaza connecting the auditorium to Keller Fountain.
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Supporters say the changes will increase its ability to be used year-round for events.
Scott Andrews with Halprin Landscape Conservancy said the proposed renovations would impact “every aspect from seismic acoustics to bathrooms and concessions.”
“One of our things we like to say is, ‘Ladies, you’ll actually be able to get a drink and go to the bathroom and back to your seat in one intermission,” he said.
The Keller Auditorium was first constructed in 1917. Over a century later, a study in 2020 revealed the need for building renovations including seismic upgrades, improved restrooms and accessible seating.
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Despite proposals to replace the Keller Auditorium with a new performing arts venue, advocates of the historic landmark valued renovations over a complete teardown.
Andrews estimated that new building construction would cost $412.3 million, with an additional $105.1 million expected if a new parking structure is built as well.
The Downtown Portland Neighborhood Association, Portland Art Museum, and Oregon Ballet Theater — which would have to find a new home during Keller renovation — all supported the idea of upgrading the pre-existing building.
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“Our members live, work, run businesses and study in the downtown, the core of our city,” Downtown Neighborhood Association Board member Diana Stuart said. “We are still here fighting for this city we love. This stunning transformation of the Keller will have a catalytic impact on the downtown and the greater Portland region. It’s the win we need right now.”
Renovating the Keller will require a lengthy closure, temporarily displacing the shows typically held at the venue. Portland City Council is expected to vote on a plan this summer.
A rendering of the Keller Auditorium’s proposed renovations from the Northwest facade and proposed Third Avenue plaza (Credit: Halprin Landscape Conservancy) A rendering of the proposed Keller Auditorium renovation from the building’s Southwest facade (Credit: Halprin Landscape Conservancy) Another rendering of the Keller Auditorium’s proposed renovations from the Northwest facade and proposed Third Avenue plaza (Credit: Halprin Landscape Conservancy) A rendering of the second balcony of the reimagined Keller Auditorium for the renovation plan A rendering of the ground foyer bar of the proposed Keller Auditorium renovation A rendering of the featured stairs in the Keller Auditorium renovation plan A rendering of the reimagined first balcony for the Keller Auditorium renovation plan An exhibit photo of plans to expand and improve the footprint of the Keller Auditorium for the renovation pitch A rendering of the Keller Fountain being used for visual arts outside of the Keller Auditorium.
Stay with KOIN 6 as we continue to cover the Keller Auditorium’s plans.
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