Inspiration for the building's architecture came from the Harris County Domed Stadium (now known as the NRG Astrodome) in Houston, Texas, which was under construction at the time.

The enclosed stadium was intended to attract a major professional sports franchise and increase the city's odds if they were to bid to host an Olympic Games.

[9] In August, Governor Mark Hatfield convinced Multnomah County Commissioner David Eccles to change his vote in favor of placing the bond on the general election ballot.

[1][2][11] In March 1965, a bill was introduced into the state legislature to fund the Delta Dome by imposing a three percent tax on hotels and other forms of lodgings to out-of-state residents.

[13] The bond measures ultimately failed, due in part to voters not believing Portland could attract or sustain a major sports franchise.

[19] Shortly before the county voted on the bond measure, pro-Delta Dome leaflets were mistakenly included with material that attacked President Lyndon Johnson's re-election campaign.

[20] After it was voted down in November 1964,[1][2] there was speculation that the Delta Dome would form a corporation and issue stock for citizens to buy, but the idea never materialized.

Delta Dome will be the largest covered stadium in the world, Oregon's big landmark of distinction like the Eiffel Tower, the Empire State Building, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Space Needle.

Delta Dome will be our international symbol of progress, a year-round, weatherproof, family fun center servicing three million people a year.The Delta Dome covered stadium is the best investment ever offered [sic] any community [...] We would bring thousands of tourists just to see such a stadium, and thousands more from nearby states to see events.Do not be fooled by the last minute snowstorm of propaganda.