It’s time for Portland to think big. Portlanders and the Portland City Council should get behind Portland State University’s plan for an exciting new performing arts complex, (“Could a multi-use arts complex at Portland State replace Keller Auditorium?,” April 23).

The plan ticks all the boxes. It is well-served by public transit; it offers multiple, needed venues and facilities to support the arts; it leverages new opportunities for PSU students and community members alike; it has the ability to attract new investment and it will help jumpstart and anchor the central city.

Portland has a long history of settling for half measures. At a time when we are looking to the arts to help revitalize downtown, we need to invest in purpose-built, world class facilities. Too often, we’ve gone small, or cheap, or convenient. The PSU proposal, rather than beginning with compromise, keeps Portland’s highest goals and aspirations for the arts and for the audience clearly in view.

When Portland has taken risks and embraced innovation, we have all benefited. For example, swapping a bigger Harbor Drive for Tom McCall Waterfront Park, building the Halprin Fountain Open Space Sequence, cancelling the ill-conceived Mount Hood Freeway, and turning a parking structure into Pioneer Courthouse Square - all these projects brought this entire city critical acclaim and new energy.

Central Portland does not need more of the same. It needs a project that will bring new activity, new visitors and new excitement. Portland State University’s proposed Performing Arts and Culture Center has what it takes to do just that.

Carl Abbott and Ethan Seltzer, Portland

Abbott and Seltzer are emeritus professors of urban studies and planning at Portland State University

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