Medford, Ore. — This Saturday, downtown Medford will once again be transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly zone as the city hosts its annual Medford Open Streets event. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., residents and visitors can enjoy three blocks of West 6th and Main streets, between Ivy and Fir, free from vehicular traffic.
The event aims to promote active transportation and stimulate local businesses by temporarily converting the city’s largest public space—the streets—into a welcoming area for walkers, bikers, and community members to connect.
In addition to free, secure bicycle parking, attendees can look forward to a variety of live performances, including shows from Spartan Boxing and SO Roller Derby, among others. The event also encourages participation through a downtown bingo card program, where visitors can collect stamps at participating businesses and enter a raffle for prizes.
Medford City Planner Casandra Brown emphasized the significance of reclaiming urban space typically reserved for cars. “This is space that otherwise is off the table for people who aren’t in cars,” Brown said. “What could our city—or other cities—look like when you reclaim that space, even just temporarily?”
The initiative invites the community to reimagine public spaces and consider alternative uses for streets beyond vehicular traffic. By promoting walkability and active transportation, Medford Open Streets offers a glimpse of a more connected and vibrant downtown.
The event is free and open to the public, offering a unique opportunity for residents to experience downtown Medford from a fresh perspective, free from the usual bustle of traffic.