 Trailblazers GM Chris McGowan (left) and Dr. |
Today marked the end of an era in Portland Trailblazers history.
As of Aug. 13, the Rose Garden Arena will be known as the Moda Center.
Trailblazers President Chris McGowan made the announcement as part of a press conference to announce a 10-year partnership with Moda Health, the largest partnership in the team's history.
The new logo will incorporate a rose, at the request of owner Paul Allen.
Physical transformations, including new signage and other visual elements will begin immediately. According to the organization, new graphics for the home court surface will be ready by the Blazers home opener against the San Antonio Spurs on Nov. 2.
Dr. William Johnson, President of Moda Health, emphasized that the partnership would celebrate and encourage healthy urban living.
Financial terms of the agreement were undisclosed.
Initiatives for the partnership will include:
- Redesign and restoration of the landmark water and fire fountains outside the arena
- New food and beverage options for the Commons area and arena concessions
- Enhanced wayfaring signage and accessibility throughout the Rose Quarter
- Improvements to pedestrian traffic flow into the campus, including guests arriving from nearby commuter rail stations and bus stops
- Upgrading of the lands and the grounds around the Rose Quarter
- Seasonal community-building and entertainment programming on the Commons
McGowan suggested the new food options will better reflect the food culture of Portland.
For more information, go to Trailblazers.com.
