Downtown Medford Launches Storefront Activation Program – Tour Dates Available

Economic Improvement District Ordinance Advances at City Council as Downtown Medford Launches Storefront Activation Program

Medford, OR — After two years of planning and collaboration, downtown Medford reached a significant milestone this week as Medford City Council unanimously approved the ordinance establishing the Economic Improvement District (EID). The approval marks an important step toward long-term, sustainable investment in downtown services, activation, and economic vitality.

Alongside this milestone, the Downtown Medford Association (DMA) is launching its Storefront Activation Program, a complementary initiative designed to reduce vacancies and support business growth in the downtown core. Funded by $25,000 from the City Council Community Initiative Fund, the program will focus on filling three to five vacant storefronts with businesses that align with downtown’s character and economic goals.

“The Economic Improvement District provides a framework for consistent, locally driven investment in downtown,” said Annie Jenkins, Executive Director of the Downtown Medford Association. “At the same time, the Storefront Activation Program allows us to take immediate, visible action by helping activate vacant spaces and supporting entrepreneurs ready to grow downtown.”

As part of the Storefront Activation Program, DMA will host a series of Reimagine Tours, which bring together property owners, prospective business owners, and community partners to explore available properties and discuss potential uses. These tours were well-attended in 2023 and 2024 and helped generate new business activity downtown.

Upcoming Reimagine Tours (RSVP required):
• Thursday, January 29 | 3:00–5:30 pm
• Tuesday, February 24 | 3:00–5:30 pm
• Thursday, April 9 | 3:00–5:30 pm

Registration Link for Tours

The next step in the EID process is a public hearing anticipated in mid-February, providing an opportunity for community members and property owners to share input on the proposed district before final consideration.

Together, the Economic Improvement District and Storefront Activation Program represent a coordinated approach to strengthening downtown Medford—pairing long-term investment strategies with near-term activation and business support.

Additional Information at the following links: Storefront Activation Program & Economic Improvement District

About the Downtown Medford Association

The Downtown Medford Association is committed to enhancing the physical, cultural, and economic vitality of downtown Medford through collaborative leadership, historic preservation, business support, and placemaking initiatives. For more information about Downtown Medford Association visit www.downtownmedford.org.

Media Contact
Downtown Medford Association
Annie Jenkins
541-941-5204  executivedirector@downtownmedford.org
DowntownMedford.org