NW Medford’s Howard Park Reopens After $2.3 Million Upgrade

Medford, Oregon- After nearly a year of construction, Howard School Park has officially reopened, offering northwest Medford families and residents a refreshed community space with modern amenities and innovative play features.

The park’s extensive upgrades, which began in July 2024, include a large splash pad to help beat the summer heat, a fully enclosed dog run, shaded seating areas, picnic tables, two pickleball courts, a small basketball court, and a walking path. A Portland Loo restroom is also set to be installed later this fall.

Among the most distinctive additions is the city’s first installation of Lappset interactive playground equipment, designed to blend physical activity with technology for children of all ages.

The “Sona” is an interactive dance and play arch that uses motion sensors to activate a variety of movement-based games, encouraging physical engagement and social interaction. Nearby, the “Memo” features LED touchscreens on cylindrical play pillars that challenge children with memory games and educational activities, integrating fun with cognitive development.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, June 26, with city officials, project partners, and Councilors Garrett West and Kevin Stine on hand to celebrate the park’s official reopening.

“The revitalized Howard School Park offers a bit of everything. Whether it is the splash pad, interactive games, basketball, pickleball, the walking path, going to the dog park, or simply reading a book under a tree, there’s something for everyone,” said Councilor Kevin Stine. “This is another successful project and another asset for Medford. I was proud to cut the ribbon on behalf of the city, and encourage everyone to check it out.”

The $2.3 million project was funded through a combination of sources, including a $714,300 Local Government Grant, $925,800 from the American Rescue Plan Act, and contributions from the Medford Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department’s Capital Improvement Fund. Construction was completed by Adroit Construction Co.

Located at 286 Mace Road, the 9.2-acre neighborhood park now serves roughly 871 households and approximately 3,000 residents within a half-mile radius.