Council Fund Supports Downtown Storefront Activation Program

Published on February 03, 2026

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The Downtown Medford Association (DMA) has launched a Storefront Activation Program aimed at reducing vacancies and supporting business growth in the downtown area. The initiative will focus on filling three to five vacant storefronts with businesses that align with the area’s character and economic goals.

The program is designed to increase occupancy, activate street-level storefronts, improve walkability, and help market available commercial properties. Project budgets are expected to range from $2,000 to $7,000 per storefront.

The initiative is funded with $25,000 from the Council Community Initiative Fund (CCIF), part of a $150,000 grant package awarded to DMA by the City Council last September. The CCIF is supported by local and state marijuana tax revenues.

As part of the program, DMA will host Reimagine Tours that bring together property owners, prospective business owners, and community partners to explore available downtown spaces. Similar tours held in 2023 and 2024 helped generate new business activity downtown.

Upcoming Reimagine Tours (RSVP required):

  • Tuesday, Feb. 24, 3–5:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, April 9, 3–5:30 p.m.

For more information, email info@downtownmedford.org or visit DMA’s website here.