Medford, OR — A major milestone for local sports enthusiasts was celebrated last Thursday as city leaders, project partners, and community members broke ground on the Lithia & Driveway Pickleball Park at Howard Memorial Sports Park, located adjacent to the Rogue X.
The $1.75 million facility will become the largest municipal pickleball complex in the region, featuring 19 lighted courts suitable for both recreational and competitive play. Construction is underway, with the park expected to open in Spring 2026.
Funding for the project comes through a public-private partnership, including $800,000 from Southern Oregon Pickleball Association fundraising efforts, which include naming rights with Lithia Motors, Inc., $500,000 from Howard Memorial Sports Park, Inc., and $400,000 from the City of Medford.
“The Department’s motto is ‘Community Thrives Here’ and this project underscores the community’s spirit of collaboration,” said Parks and Recreation Director Rich Rosenthal. “The Pickleball Park will allow the city to serve red-hot local demand for courts and host large regional or national events that provide significant economic stimulus.”
The sports park will also see additional developments, including four sand volleyball courts, three youth ballfields, a neighborhood park, a replica of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C., and 260 additional parking spaces to accommodate increased usage.
With construction underway, the new Pickleball Park is poised to become a central hub for recreation and tournaments in Medford, boosting both community engagement and local tourism.
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