Behind the Fence: A look at the new Lloyd Center concert venue

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- KOIN 6 News scored a behind-the-scenes look at the new concert venue at the Lloyd Center.

Construction is already underway at the old Nordstrom site at Northeast 9th & Multnomah. When the buildout is complete, it will be the site of a $70 million performance venue by local promoter Monqui Presents.

The 66,000 square foot space is expected to seat up to 4,200 people and host 125 shows in the first year.

Mike Quinn, founder of Monqui Presents, said there will be stadium and floor seating on the first floor, along with a couple of bars and food options. A mezzanine on the second floor will have fixed seating, more bars and great sight lines to the stage. The old Nordstrom escalators will be removed.

"The concept here is more of an expanded club, exploded club vibe, rather than a decreased arena vibe," Quinn said.

This has been in the works for about a decade, according to Quinn. It's a partnership with entertainment venue developer AEG and contractor Lease Crutcher Lewis is doing the work.

Quinn said he's confident the venue will be a success, even with other new performing arts venues in the works. That includes projects by Live Nation on Portland's inner east side, and plans by Portland State University to build a new performance venue on campus, as well as the renovation of the Keller Auditorium.

"We're excited about Portland," Quinn added. "You know, it's kind of in a rough spot right now, but we think this will help a lot."

Quinn noted they've already met with neighbors and nearby businesses who hope for an economic boost.

"We've finally seen the end of the tunnel and it's getting brighter," he said.

The demolition should be complete by this September and then the buildout begins.

The first shows are expected to play at the new venue in the spring of 2027.