In a milestone moment, the city’s Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the land use applications for the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts and new district public parking garage at their Feb. 6 meeting. The decision brings the city one step closer to our community vision for a dynamic center to meet the region’s diverse arts and culture needs. “The center is an investment in the future,” explained General Manager Chris Ayzoukian. “It will be a destination for a variety of regional and national arts, culture and entertainment experiences closer to home. A place to be enjoyed by all and for generations to come.
A capital fundraising campaign for the project is underway. Currently, approximately $6 million remains to be raised of the total $46 million project budget.
“We are grateful for the generosity and outpouring of support we’ve realized since launching the campaign last year,” said Beaverton Arts Foundation Executive Director Lani Faith. “It’s exciting to be a part of a project that will shift the landscape of the city so significantly, and based on our conversations and fundraising success thus far we know that people throughout the region find this an inspiring and compelling investment opportunity.”
Groundbreaking for the project is currently planned for fall 2019, upon completion of fundraising goals and in coordination with construction of the district public parking garage. The seven-story garage with space for retail and restaurant use is funded separately by the Beaverton Urban Redevelopment Agency (BURA). It is estimated to cost $24 million and will be paid by a special revenue bond. Both projects are anticipated to be complete in spring 2021.
“We’re on a verge of a new era in Beaverton,” continued Chris. “The center symbolizes the capstone of a more vibrant downtown, which we’re already seeing taking place—a livelier and welcoming part of the city. It’s exciting to be a part of the transformation.”
