Creekside Quarter funding vote narrowly passes with 54% approving

MEDFORD, Nov. 4 - 17,402 ballots were received in the weeks preceding a vote on Measure 15-238, which allows the city to raise its hotel tax from 11% to 13%, with a 54% 'yes' vote. At a glance, this may seem like a somewhat trivial measure - what's the big deal? This 2% increase is said to open the door to partially fund 'Creekside Quarter' - a planned mixed-use development within and around downtown Medford, Oregon.    

At the heart of the development is a minor-league baseball stadium, which, if built, could be the new home of the Eugene Emeralds baseball team. Surrounding and supporting the possible stadium is a slate of new hotels, parking structures, and, at the forefront of discussion, a brandnew convention / event center. Additionally, the project also includes restoration of the nearby Bear Creek and surrounding public parks.    

There are some key considerations to keep in mind regarding Creekside Quarter. First, this measure - the actual increase in lodging taxes - does not take effect until and unless a public/private partnership is secured - i.e., the private funding for this project may not be fully secured, but the passing of this measure could fund the ~10% project cost that would be public involvement. The remaining 90% would be privately-funded; although it remains unclear which developer would be leading this project.

Second, it is best to view the Creekside Quarter project as a conference and events center first and foremost, with the aforementioned stadium being a possible secondary addition down the road - again, if and when the terms of funding are secured.

Lastly, this project could take years and years before the first shovel of dirt is moved - city officials estimate a 5-10 year project timeline. A feasibility study analyzing the impacts of this mega project indicated that the hotel and event center alone (completely excluding the stadium) could generate $1.69B in economic impact and $752M in local wages "over time" (timeline unsure).

Overall, we're looking forward to the possibility of a dynamic development which could revitalize downtown Medford and the surrounding southern Oregon region.The Creekside Quarter PAC has provided significant info supporting this project. More info can be found at www.creeksidequarter.com.

All information is provided by local news outlets and the Creekside Quarter PAC.