As 2025 comes to a close, the City of Medford is reflecting on a year focused on community connection, public safety, and continued investment in services and infrastructure that support residents.
Community Connection and Events
Medford residents came together throughout the year for events and initiatives that strengthened community ties. The City hosted its second annual Trunk or Treat at City Hall, welcoming families for a safe fall tradition. In the spring, community town halls focused on emergency preparedness while giving residents an opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with City leadership.
The City also announced the winners of the Council Community Art Contest, awarding four local high school students $1,000 each. Their artwork is now displayed inside City Hall, celebrating student creativity and local talent.
Parks and Recreation events continued to draw strong participation, including Rogue Credit Union Movies in the Park and the Winter Lights Festival, while new events such as Corgi-Con and Doxin-Dash added to the year’s offerings.
Public Safety and Emergency Response
Public safety remained a top priority in 2025, with continued investment in emergency response, preparedness, and transparency.
Public Works crews responded to weather events throughout the year, including the early February snowstorm, working extended hours to keep roadways passable and address storm impacts.
Medford Fire launched a third Fire EMS Squad, expanding emergency medical response capacity, and construction began on the new Fire Station 15 to support long-term service needs.
The City also completed construction of the Public Safety Tower and celebrated its opening with the community, strengthening emergency communications and coordination.
The Medford Police Department expanded transparency and engagement by launching a new online public safety information portal, giving residents access to crime data, public safety trends, and department initiatives. MPD also hosted its annual Citizen Academy and a Latino Citizen Academy, designed to build understanding and strengthen community relationships.
Community Investment and Access
In 2025, the City secured funding for projects directly benefiting residents, including support for the revitalization of Jackson Park and assistance for local housing renovations and services.
City Council approved $611,750 through the Council Community Initiative Fund (CCIF), supporting local businesses and organizations that positively impact the community. Since 2020, the Council has awarded more than $5.7 million in CCIF grants for initiatives such as childcare and swim scholarships, homelessness-prevention efforts, and facility improvements for local nonprofits.
The Municipal Court’s Outreach Court continued expanding access to court services, improving accessibility and meeting people where they are.
Infrastructure, Planning, and Community Improvements
The City made major progress on key infrastructure projects, including continued work on the Foothill Road project, improving safety and connectivity.
City Council approved the Medford Downtown Plan, establishing a long-term framework to guide growth, revitalization, and future investment in the downtown area.
Additional improvements included the reopening of Howard School Park, installation of Medford’s first TRACK Trail, restoration of the historic Palm Fountain in Alba Park, and ongoing preservation work at Eastwood Cemetery.
Staying Informed
In July, the City launched a new online newsroom to share updates on projects, programs, and events. Coverage included the Creekside Quarter concept, discussions on the future of Main Street, and improvements at Wes Howard Memorial Sports Park, including the groundbreaking of Lithia & Driveway Pickleball Park.
Residents can stay informed in the year ahead by subscribing to text and email updates at medfordoregon.gov/subscribe.