The Portland City Council has approved plans to renovate PGE Park in preparation for the city's Major League Soccer debut in 2011.
 
Back in July, the council approved a preliminary agreement and financing plan with United Soccer League First Division side Portland Timbers and its owner Merritt Paulson.
 
Final approval was given on Wednesday, however, when the council voted 4-1 to back the US$31 million plan that will see the Timbers' home stadium upgraded before the team makes the step up to the MLS next year.
 
“This is a great day for Portland and a great day for soccer,” Paulson said in a statement. “I thank our fans for their support and the city council for its leadership. Now, we look forward to showing the rest of the country why we are Soccer City USA.”
 
The Timbers immediately announced they’re accepting season ticket deposits.