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MEDFORD, Ore. — Medford city officials will meet Thursday to discuss a baseball stadium project at Hawthorne Park that could require about $80.5 million in public funding, but staff have raised concerns that the current cost estimate may not fully account for the city’s financial responsibilities.
Council To Discuss Stadium Proposal Thursday Ahead of Possible November 18 Vote
The City Council study session is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, at 6 p.m. in the Medford Police Station Prescott Room, ahead of a possible council decision on November 18.
The stadium proposal would bring a Minor League Baseball (MiLB) stadium to Hawthorne Park, but questions remain over its cost and how much the city should contribute.
Construction could potentially be completed by April 6, 2029, in time for the beginning of the MiLB season. Thursday’s meeting is for discussing staff direction on whether to advance the project and how it might be financed.
No vote or public comment is scheduled at the study session.
Staff Anticipate Higher Stadium Costs and Ask How Much Public Money Council Would Commit
A due diligence report in the council packet estimates the Hawthorne Park project at approximately $75.2 million, including $72.1 million in construction costs.
However, city staff believe some expenses may have been underestimated or excluded, putting their more conservative funding scenario closer to $90.5 million.
After allowing for an assumed $10 million in outside contributions, the city’s or Medford Urban Renewal Agency’s share could reach approximately $80.5 million.
Tidings Data Snapshot
Staff’s Potential Stadium FundingHawthorne Park scenario in the November 12 council packet| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Staff worksheet starting cost | $78.0 million |
| Additional city costs | $12.5 million |
| Total project scenario | $90.5 million |
| Assumed outside contributions | $10.0 million |
| Estimated City / MURA contribution | $80.5 million |
Rounded figures. The staff worksheet starts at $78 million; the separate consultant estimate is $75.2 million. Outside contributions are assumed, and no funding plan has been approved.
Source: City of Medford / November 12, 2026 study-session packet, page 6DailyTidings.com
Staff want Council to establish how much public funding it is prepared to commit and whether Elmore Sports Group, owner of the Eugene Emeralds, or another entity should be required to contribute.
Potential funding sources include dedicating approximately 30% of future MURA 2.0 revenues to the project, as well as possible increases in car rental taxes, park utility fees and parks system development charges (SDCs).
No funding arrangement has been approved yet.
Hawthorne Park Is the Focus After the Team Rejects Harry & David Field
The feasibility study examined both Hawthorne Park and Harry & David Field. However, the Emeralds’ owners have said they will not financially participate in upgrading Harry & David Field or relocate the franchise there following renovations.
The proposed Hawthorne Park stadium would accommodate up to 3,004 people, with fixed seating, premium club and suite seats, and berm seating.
Tidings Data Snapshot
Proposed Hawthorne Park Stadium Seating3,004 total spaces in the October 2026 concept design- 67.8%Fixed seats
- 25.4%Club and suite premium seats
- 6.8%Berm seating
Counts are 2,036 fixed seats, 764 premium seats and 204 berm spaces. Percentages are rounded shares of proposed capacity.
Source: City of Medford / KNO Construction and DLR Group concept designDailyTidings.com
Repurposing Hawthorne Park also raises questions about the loss of one of downtown Medford’s significant public green spaces and the stadium’s potential use for outdoor markets, concerts, and other community events.
Replacing park amenities and continued public access are important considerations beyond the stadium’s sporting and financial objectives.
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