JACKSONVILLE, Ore. – The City of Jacksonville is inviting residents to share their thoughts on an exciting new project that could significantly transform the heart of the historic town. A proposal to redesign North 3rd Street, creating either a Public Plaza or Festival Street, is currently under consideration by the city.
This project, nearly a decade in the making, aims to breathe new life into the downtown area by creating a pedestrian-friendly space designed for community events and gatherings. The goal is to foster a vibrant and accessible public space that reflects Jacksonville’s unique history and culture.
Planning Director Ian Foster expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that it would provide a much-needed area for residents and visitors alike to come together. “This project will give us a place where people can gather, something easy and accessible for everyone,” Foster said. “We want to celebrate Jacksonville’s history and culture and make this space a true community hub.”
At present, two design options are being considered, both of which prioritize pedestrian access and community engagement, but in different ways.
The Pedestrian Plaza Concept proposes permanently closing the southern half of North 3rd Street to vehicle traffic, with the exception of emergency access. This would allow for the creation of a public plaza, complete with trees, public art, and expansive open spaces suitable for hosting town events such as Jacksonville’s annual Christmas tree lighting. The northern half of the street would remain open to vehicles, ensuring continued access to the alleyway.
Meanwhile, the Festival Street Concept offers a more flexible approach. While the street would primarily remain open to vehicle traffic, it would be closed off for special events such as festivals, concerts, and other community gatherings. The design would also incorporate more greenery and feature a small plaza for performances and activities. This option would preserve more parking spaces compared to the pedestrian plaza concept.
Residents of Jacksonville have expressed a range of opinions on the proposed changes. Some are excited about the possibility of a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly downtown, while others have voiced concerns about potential impacts on privacy and parking availability.
Foster emphasized the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process. “Community input is critical to us. It’s essential to include the voices of the people who live and work here,” he said. “We want this to reflect the vision of Jacksonville’s residents, so we’re encouraging everyone to participate.”
As the city moves forward with the project, public feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the final design. Jacksonville officials hope to ensure that whatever plan is chosen will meet the needs of the community while also enhancing the town’s cultural and historical charm.