By the Numbers
An independent market, financial, and economic analysis was conducted to see if the Medford region could support a conference center. The study confirmed that a modern conference facility paired with an on-site hotel would meet regional demand and deliver significant economic benefits to Medford. This project is one component of the larger Creekside Quarter vision.
Medford’s Potential
Today, Medford lacks a high-quality, flexible venue that can comfortably host 500+ attendees with standard breakout space—forcing many events to look elsewhere. The recommended program directly addresses this gap and positions Medford to compete with leading regional facilities.
30-Year Economic Impact (Illustrative)
Total local spending
$1.69B (net new, large scenario).
Earnings
$752M to local workers.
Jobs
318 ongoing FTE supported by activity associated with the project. These impacts reflect visitor spending circulating through the economy over time.
Conference Center ROI
Fiscal Returns
Modeled fiscal effects include an estimated $67.6M in net new hotel and property taxes to the City over 30 years.
Investment Snapshot
The large scenario’s development cost is estimated at $103.7M, reflecting both hotel and conference components, with an identified feasibility gap of about $55.1M. Public financing tools commonly used for projects of this type are noted as available in the current environment.
Community & Downtown Benefits
Attaching the hotel to the conference center creates an efficient “meet-and-stay” experience—driving overnight visits (the highest-value visitor segment), increasing foot traffic, and supporting local restaurants and shops, especially in a central downtown location.
Program (High Level)
Recommended large scenario: ~26,400 SF of flexible function space (Grand & Junior Ballrooms plus meeting rooms), ~220 guest rooms, on-site food & beverage (restaurant, catering, rooftop), and appropriate parking—configured to host regional meetings, celebrations, and multi-day events.
Conference Center Snapshot
An independent market, financial, and economic analysis recommends a modern conference facility paired with an on-site hotel to meet regional demand. Two concepts were tested; the preferred “large scenario” includes ~26,400 SF of function space anchored by an 18,000-SF Grand Ballroom, complemented by an attached 220-key hotel.
Why downtown? Locating the project in Medford’s core maximizes walkability, strengthens nearby businesses, and serves as a year-round anchor for future retail and dining.
Get Involved
Be a part of the project. Together lets build a better future for Medford.
