The Portland Diamond Project (PDP) infused fresh energy into Portland baseball dreams on Monday, unveiling new renderings of the proposed MLB stadium that stunned state lawmakers and re-opened local hopes.
CEO of PDP Cheek addressed the committee, saying that construction on the South Waterfront stadium can begin as early as 2027—if the city is granted an MLB team.
Since 2017, the Portland Diamond Project has been trying to bring Major League Baseball to Portland, with both setbacks and gains. The committee in September targeted the Zidell Yards area as the most suitable for the stadium, and Cheek testified that there was a purchase sale agreement in place by early February.
The project also has backing from local government, with the Portland City Council unanimously voting in October on a resolution endorsing PDP’s stadium proposal.
“This is a landmark site,” Cheek told the committee. “If you look at the 30 existing MLB ballparks throughout the country, there might not be a more suitable site.”
New photos of the proposed MLB stadium in Portland
Cheek revealed the never-before-seen drawings of the planned 32,000-seat stadium that would feature a translucent retractable roof—making it a year-round community asset.
The wood and glass stadium structure will be situated between Ross Island Bridge and Tilikum Crossing. The stadium will be designed by architect Jeff Yrazabal of Populous, who has previously worked on guiding the renovation of Reser Stadium at Oregon State and redeveloping Hayward Field in Eugene. Populous also created the new Hillsboro Hops stadium that is currently under construction.
Wilson, who supports the project, stressed its significance, saying, “This is the kind of project we need, and we need it now.” He further stated that city officials are coordinating their efforts with PDP to develop a solid bid to Major League Baseball.
Portland is competing against other cities, such as Salt Lake City, for an MLB club.
Yet, one fundamental problem that has not been debated in the committee meeting is the funding plan for the stadium. Cheek has previously stated that the majority of the money will be private investment, with the whole project totaling over $1.2 billion. The potential buyer of the new team is still unknown.
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Rendering of proposed MLB stadium in Portland unveiled: Factsheet
Project Overview
Portland Diamond Project (PDP) wants to bring a Major League Baseball team to Portland, Oregon
New renderings show a proposed stadium on the South Waterfront in Portland
Construction could begin as early as 2027 if Portland hosts an MLB team
Stadium Details
Site: Zidell Yards on Portland’s waterfront between Tillikum Crossing and Ross Island Bridge
Seats: 32,000
Design features: Retractable roof made of translucent material, glass and timber elements
Structured to function as a year-round community asset
Architect: Jeff Yrazabal of Populous (same company that designed Reser Stadium renovation, Hayward Field redesign, and new Hillsboro Hops ballpark)
Portland Proposed MLB stadium status
PDP since 2017 has tried to get MLB to Portland
Buy sale deal contract for Zidell Yards finalized February 2025
Portland City Council voted with unequivocal approval to confirm the plans in October
Portland is in bids from various cities like Salt Lake City
Financial information
Estimated project cost: Well over $1.2 billion
Funding to come primarily from private investments
Ownership of team not disclosed
Read also: Sacramento Republic FC Reveals Latest Rendering for $321M Railyards Stadium
