In 2018, the City of Salem developed a new Salem Riverfront Park Master Plan that provides for the addition of new amenities to the 26-acre downtown park described by residents as "Salem's Living Room." The plan guides management and development of the urban park for the next 20 years. With its wide paths, open lawns, and views of the river, Riverfront Park provides ample passive recreation opportunities.

Construction of Phase 1 amenities was completed in 2021.

Gerry Frank | Rotary Amphitheater

The new Gerry Frank | Rotary Stage and Amphitheater was constructed in partnership with the Rotary Club of Salem on 3.8 acres of park property acquired from Boise Cascade at the southeast end of Riverfront Park. The Club is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2020 and committed to building a covered and enhanced performance stage at Riverfront Park in support of that milestone.

The new performance area features a a sweeping wood structure using a "basket weave" concept developed by CB|Two Architects, inspired by the open-weave baskets of the Kalapuya Native American tribe.

North Meadow Restroom

A new 8-unit restroom facility will be constructed near the North meadow and existing Rotary Pavillion, across Front Street from Court Street. An Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Local Government Grant is helping to fund the project. Construction is planned between late May and October.

Early construction work will involve moving existing plumbing and electrical service to the splash fountain so that the restroom project won't inhibit the opening of the fountain.