Medford, Ore. – Jackson Park, one of Medford’s oldest and most beloved parks, is set to undergo a significant transformation with a $2.3 million revitalization project. Located in west Medford, Jackson Park has served the local community since the 1960s. However, with Jackson Pool no longer in operation and the community now served by Rogue X, the park is ready for an upgrade that aims to breathe new life into the space.
The upcoming renovation plans include the replacement of the old pool with a large, modern splash pad, providing a new way for families to cool off during the summer months. In addition to the splash pad, the park will feature new sand volleyball courts, a dog park, and an updated picnic area, providing a variety of recreational opportunities for park visitors of all ages.
Rich Rosenthal, the City of Medford’s Parks and Recreation Director, shared his excitement about the project, emphasizing its importance in improving one of the city’s most outdated parks. “It’s the same thing; it’s maybe our worst park in terms of quality and age. It’s going to go from the bottom of the list to probably the top five in terms of coolness,” Rosenthal said.
The $2.3 million project will be funded through Medford’s ‘park improvement fund,’ with the possibility of additional funding through a state grant. If the state grant is not awarded, the city has committed to securing the remaining $1 million from the next biennial budget. The city is hopeful that the revitalization efforts will be as successful as those seen in other recent projects, such as the renovations at Howard Elementary School Park, which also benefited from state grant funding.
The first step of the renovation will be the demolition of the old pool, slated to begin this summer. However, the full range of updates and upgrades will not be completed until 2026. Despite the long timeline, community members are eager for the changes that will improve Jackson Park’s appeal and usability for years to come.
The improvements are expected to attract more visitors and enhance the sense of community in the area, helping to make Jackson Park a prime destination for recreation and social activities. With its updated amenities, the park is poised to become a vibrant and engaging space for both residents and visitors alike.