Medford to Decide on Proposed North Riverside Market Development

Medford, Oregon- On October 4, 2024, the Medford Site Plan and Architectural Committee (SPAC) will deliberate on a proposal for a new 15,000 square foot neighborhood market on N. Riverside Avenue. The site, previously home to Pacific Survey, is now razed and vacant. It was acquired by the Medford Urban Renewal Agency (MURA) in 2023 as part of a broader plan to revitalize the area.

The development is a collaboration between the applicant and MURA, with the project intended to address both economic and infrastructural needs in the surrounding area. MURA acquired the site, along with an adjacent parcel, with the aim of boosting local economic opportunities. The proposed market is seen as a significant contribution to the community, offering a much-needed grocery store for nearby residents.

In addition to the market, the project includes a critical stormwater management component. MURA plans to construct a stormwater detention facility on the adjacent parcel to handle runoff from a 60-acre area. A Conditional Use Permit for relocating the stormwater outfall to Bear Creek is currently under review.

The submitted site plan for the market includes a range of features to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Steel pergolas will be installed to provide shade for outdoor seating areas and bicycle parking. The main entrance on the north side of the building will also be accented by a pergola. The building’s frontage along Riverside Avenue will be enhanced with a sidewalk, planter strips, and raised planters, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment.

Parking is another key aspect of the plan. A total of 137 parking spaces will be provided, shared between the market and the neighboring Fiesta Restaurant. The existing access to Riverside Avenue will be relocated, and the nearby Fiesta Restaurant’s parking area will be reconfigured to accommodate the changes. While there is no minimum parking requirement due to the site’s location within a Frequent Transit Corridor (FTC) Overlay, the plan complies with the maximum allowable parking spaces. RVTD is also expected to add a bus stop and shelter at the location.

Plans show pedestrian access is a priority, with walkways designed to connect to existing sidewalks and bike paths. However, the site plan does not show a clear connection to the existing Fiesta Restaurant, which may require further consideration by SPAC.

The proposed architecture of the building aims to blend with the surrounding structures. According to the applicant, the building’s design will complement the nearby Fiesta Market, Fiesta Restaurant, and Tequila Nightclub. The proposed structure features a “Tucson” style with stucco siding in tan and celery seed colors, accented by burnt umber trellises. Large street-front windows and the trellises are intended to break up the mass of the building and avoid a flat, monotonous appearance. The roof will be a flat design with a weatherproof membrane.

If SPAC approves the project, the site is ready for construction, with building work potentially starting before the end of the year.