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Grants Pass, Oregon
Grants Pass, Oregon
Grants Pass, Oregon
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Grants Pass is a city in and the county seat of Josephine County, Oregon, United States.[8] The city is located on Interstate 5, northwest of Medford, along the Rogue River. The population is 39,194 according to the 2020 census, making it the 15th most populous city in Oregon.[9]

Key Information

History

[edit]

Early Hudson's Bay Company hunters and trappers, following the Siskiyou Trail, passed through the site beginning in the 1820s. In the late 1840s, settlers following the Applegate Trail began traveling through the area on their way to the Willamette Valley. The city states[10] that the name was selected to honor General Ulysses S. Grant's incredible success in the Vicksburg Campaign. The Grants Pass post office was established on March 22, 1865.[11] The city of Grants Pass was incorporated in 1887.[12]

The Oregon–Utah Sugar Company, financed by Charles W. Nibley, was created, leading to a sugar beet factory being built in Grants Pass in 1916.[13] Before the factory opened, Oregon-Utah Sugar was merged into the Utah-Idaho Sugar Company.[13] Due to labor shortages and low acreage planted in sugar beets, the processing machinery was moved to Toppenish, Washington, in 1918 or 1919.[13]

Grants Pass was formerly a sundown town.[14][15][16] The Ku Klux Klan was active from the 1920s to 1960s.[17]

Geography

[edit]

Grants Pass is located in the Rogue Valley; the Rogue River runs through the city. U.S. Route 199 passes through the city, and joins Interstate 5. The city has a total area of 11.03 square miles (28.6 km2), of which 10.87 square miles (28.2 km2) is land and 0.16 square miles (0.41 km2) is water.[18]

Climate

[edit]
Welcome sign in Grants Pass

Grants Pass has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen: Csa), and is in USDA plant hardiness zone 8b.[19]

Summer days are sunny, dry and hot, with dramatic cooling at night; the average August high temperature is 90.6 °F (32.6 °C) and the low is 54.9 °F (12.7 °C). Winters are cool and fairly rainy, with only occasional snow; the average January high temperature is 47.6 °F (8.7 °C) and the low is 35.3 °F (1.8 °C). Grants Pass receives roughly 31 inches (790 mm) precipitation per year, with three-quarters of it occurring between November 1 and March 31. The mild winters and dry summers support a native vegetation structure quite different from the rest of Oregon, dominated by madrone, deciduous and evergreen oak, manzanita, pine, bush chinquapin, and other species that are far less abundant further north.[20]

The record high temperature of 115 °F (46 °C) was on July 4, 2022. The record low temperature of −3 °F (−19 °C) was on December 21, 1990.[21][22] There are an average of 51.3 afternoons annually with highs of 90 °F (32 °C) or higher, eight afternoons reaching at least 100 °F (38 °C), and 77.5 mornings annually with lows of 29 °F (−2 °C) or lower.

Measurable precipitation falls on an average of 110 days annually. The wettest rain year on record was from July 1955 to June 1956 with 50.69 inches (1,288 mm) of precipitation, and the driest from July 1923 to June 1924 with 13.43 inches (341 mm). The most precipitation in one month was 20.63 inches (524 mm) in December 1996, and the most precipitation in one day was 5.27 inches (134 mm) on October 29, 1950 – part of a two-day fall of 9.38 inches (238 mm) and ending a five-day fall of 11.26 inches (286 mm). There is an average of only 4.6 inches (0.12 m) of snow annually. The most snowfall in one month was 34.1 inches (0.87 m) in February 1917.[23]

Climate data for Grants Pass, Oregon (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1893–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °F (°C) 71
(22) 		76
(24) 		86
(30) 		98
(37) 		102
(39) 		113
(45) 		114
(46) 		111
(44) 		108
(42) 		99
(37) 		77
(25) 		75
(24) 		114
(46)
Mean maximum °F (°C) 59.0
(15.0) 		65.1
(18.4) 		74.3
(23.5) 		83.5
(28.6) 		93.0
(33.9) 		97.5
(36.4) 		102.8
(39.3) 		103.1
(39.5) 		97.9
(36.6) 		85.1
(29.5) 		68.0
(20.0) 		59.1
(15.1) 		105.3
(40.7)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 47.6
(8.7) 		53.9
(12.2) 		59.6
(15.3) 		65.4
(18.6) 		74.1
(23.4) 		81.2
(27.3) 		90.5
(32.5) 		90.6
(32.6) 		83.8
(28.8) 		69.8
(21.0) 		53.8
(12.1) 		45.7
(7.6) 		68.0
(20.0)
Daily mean °F (°C) 41.5
(5.3) 		44.8
(7.1) 		48.2
(9.0) 		52.6
(11.4) 		59.9
(15.5) 		65.9
(18.8) 		73.4
(23.0) 		72.7
(22.6) 		66.1
(18.9) 		55.5
(13.1) 		46.1
(7.8) 		40.4
(4.7) 		55.6
(13.1)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 35.3
(1.8) 		35.6
(2.0) 		36.9
(2.7) 		39.8
(4.3) 		45.7
(7.6) 		50.5
(10.3) 		56.3
(13.5) 		54.9
(12.7) 		48.3
(9.1) 		41.1
(5.1) 		38.5
(3.6) 		35.1
(1.7) 		43.2
(6.2)
Mean minimum °F (°C) 24.1
(−4.4) 		24.9
(−3.9) 		27.4
(−2.6) 		30.2
(−1.0) 		34.5
(1.4) 		40.6
(4.8) 		47.2
(8.4) 		45.7
(7.6) 		38.3
(3.5) 		30.2
(−1.0) 		26.2
(−3.2) 		23.9
(−4.5) 		19.5
(−6.9)
Record low °F (°C) 1
(−17) 		5
(−15) 		15
(−9) 		20
(−7) 		24
(−4) 		30
(−1) 		35
(2) 		30
(−1) 		24
(−4) 		20
(−7) 		12
(−11) 		−1
(−18) 		−1
(−18)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 5.08
(129) 		3.97
(101) 		3.65
(93) 		2.31
(59) 		1.39
(35) 		0.68
(17) 		0.37
(9.4) 		0.26
(6.6) 		0.56
(14) 		2.07
(53) 		4.42
(112) 		6.55
(166) 		31.31
(795)
Average snowfall inches (cm) 0.6
(1.5) 		0.1
(0.25) 		0.1
(0.25) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.1
(0.25) 		0.9
(2.3)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) 17.1 14.3 15.5 13.4 8.6 4.5 1.9 1.6 3.3 8.0 15.8 16.8 120.8
Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 1.3
Source: NOAA[24][25]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1880250—
18901,432472.8%
19002,29059.9%
19103,89770.2%
19204,2007.8%
19304,66611.1%
19406,02829.2%
19508,11634.6%
196010,11824.7%
197012,45523.1%
198014,97720.2%
199017,48816.8%
200023,00331.5%
201034,53350.1%
202039,18913.5%
Source:[26]
U.S. Decennial Census[27]
[4]

2020 census

[edit]

As of the 2020 census, Grants Pass had a population of 39,189. The median age was 41.3 years. 21.7% of residents were under the age of 18 and 23.3% of residents were 65 years of age or older. For every 100 females there were 90.8 males, and for every 100 females age 18 and over there were 86.6 males age 18 and over.[28]

99.7% of residents lived in urban areas, while 0.3% lived in rural areas.[29]

There were 15,865 households in Grants Pass, of which 28.6% had children under the age of 18 living in them. Of all households, 40.2% were married-couple households, 17.9% were households with a male householder and no spouse or partner present, and 33.1% were households with a female householder and no spouse or partner present. About 31.5% of all households were made up of individuals and 17.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.[28]

There were 16,681 housing units, of which 4.9% were vacant. Among occupied housing units, 54.9% were owner-occupied and 45.1% were renter-occupied. The homeowner vacancy rate was 1.4% and the rental vacancy rate was 3.8%.[28]

Racial composition as of the 2020 census[30]
Race Number Percent
White 32,755 83.6%
Black or African American 225 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 524 1.3%
Asian 506 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 83 0.2%
Some other race 1,242 3.2%
Two or more races 3,854 9.8%
Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 3,912 10.0%

2010 census

[edit]

As of the census of 2010,[31] there were 34,533 people, 14,313 households, and 8,700 families residing in the city. The population density was 3,176.9 inhabitants per square mile (1,226.6/km2). There were 15,561 housing units at an average density of 1,431.6 per square mile (552.7/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 90.9% White, 1.2% Native American, 1.1% Asian, 0.5% African American, 0.3% Pacific Islander, 2.3% from other races, and 3.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8.5% of the population.

There were 14,313 households, of which 30.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.3% were married couples living together, 14.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.2% were non-families. 32.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age in the city was 39.3 years. 24.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.6% were from 25 to 44; 25% were from 45 to 64; and 18.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.3% male and 52.7% female.

2000 census

[edit]

As of the census[6] of 2000, there were 23,003 people, 9,376 households, and 5,925 families residing in the city. The population density was 3,033 inhabitants per square mile (1,171/km2). There were 9,885 housing units at an average density of 1,303.3 per square mile (503.2/km2). By 2008, the city's population had increased to 33,239. According to U.S. Census figures from the 2006-2008 American Community Survey, the racial composition of the city's population was 93.6% white, 0.2% black, 1.6% American Indian, 1.1% Asian, 1.2% other race, and 2.3% two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos, who may be of any race, formed 7.2% of the city's population.

There were 9,376 households, out of which 31.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.5% were married couples living together, 14.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.8% were non-families. 31.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.36 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 26.0% under the age of 18, 8.1% from 18 to 24, 25.7% from 25 to 44, 20.7% from 45 to 64, and 19.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,197, and the median income for a family was $36,284. Males had a median income of $31,128 versus $23,579 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,234. About 12.2% of families and 34.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 20.8% of those under age 18 and 7.3% of those age 65 or over.

Government and politics

[edit]

The city council has 8 members as of 2019, representing 4 wards and are elected to 4 year terms by the city. The city council and mayor are not paid, and they volunteer their time. The council oversees the city government and chooses the city manager. The mayor's job is to provide leadership and preside over city council meetings. The Mayor can also issue vetoes and make a tiebreaker vote. Grants Pass is conservative leaning and represented in the United States House of Representatives by Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario). At the state level of politics, Grants Pass is represented in the Oregon Senate by Art Robinson (R-Cave Junction) who holds Oregon's 2nd Senate district,[32] and represented in the Oregon House of Representatives by Lily Morgan (R-Grants Pass) holding Oregon's 3rd House district[33] and Christine Goodwin (R-Grants Pass) holding Oregon's 4th House district.[33]

Economy

[edit]

The lumber industry was the major employer for Grants Pass up until the early 1970s. At that point the entire region started to see a steady decline in all lumber harvesting, production, and processing. Since then there has been a shift to a large service industry sector covering areas of outdoors/sports/recreation and health care infrastructure. This is augmented by multiple small and medium businesses and growth in marijuana-related businesses due to state legalization.

Arts and culture

[edit]
Caveman statue next to the visitor center
Jetboat on the Rogue River at Grants Pass

Annual cultural events

[edit]

Boatnik, a hydroplane boat race and carnival event, is held every Memorial Day weekend in Riverside Park.[34]

They also host the Josephine County Fair which usually occurs in late August.[35]

Museums and other points of interest

[edit]

The historic Rogue Theatre downtown has been transformed into a performing arts venue that hosts mostly local acts.[36] The Grants Pass Towne Center Association's "Back to the '50s" Celebration includes free concerts, a nearly 600-vehicle Classic Car Cruise, poker runs, and thematic shopping in the town's downtown historic district.[37]

Year round, there are First Friday Art Nights. On the first Friday of every month, many of the city's downtown stores hold art shows and promotional events.[38]

The Grants Pass post office contains two tempera murals done through the U.S. Treasury Department Section on Fine Arts (often mistakenly referred to as the "WPA"), both painted in 1938. There are ten government-sponsored New Deal era murals in Oregon; Grants Pass is the only post office that contains two. The murals are "Rogue River Indians" by Louis DeMott Bunce (who also painted a 1959 mural at Portland International Airport) and "Early and Contemporary Industries" by Eric Lamade.[39]

The Caveman Bridge on 6th Street was built by Conde McCullough in 1933. The through arch design bridge has been a landmark of Grants Pass for many years, and the bridge was refurbished in 2019. The Redwood Empire sign at the beginning of the bridge has also been a landmark for many years, and it was redone in 2021 due to a car crash.[40]

The Redwood Empire sign on 6th Street
The Caveman Bridge over the Rogue River on 6th Street

Parks and recreation

[edit]

Grants Pass has numerous and diverse parks and green spaces.[41] Notable city-run parks include Riverside Park, summer home to the local Concerts in the Park series, and the Reinhart Volunteer Park, a park largely built through the efforts of community volunteers and featuring facilities for many sports.[42][43] In addition, the Bureau of Land Management maintains the Cathedral Hills Trail System on the outskirts of Grants Pass,[44] which is home to several endangered species of plants, the largest whiteleaf manzanita in the state, as well the tallest knobcone pine.[45] Grants Pass is a Tree City USA Community and has been for 35 years.[46]

The city was involved in litigation before the Supreme Court of the United States in the case of City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, regarding an ordinance preventing homeless people from camping in its parks.[47] On June 28, 2024, in a 6–3 decision, the Court upheld the city's ordinance.[48]

Education

[edit]

Grants Pass area public schools are served by Grants Pass School District, including Grants Pass High School, and Three Rivers School District, including Illinois Valley High School, North Valley High School, Rivers Edge Academy Charter School, and Hidden Valley High School. Rogue Community College's (RCC) main (Redwood Campus) is located south of Grants Pass on Redwood Highway with additional campuses located in Medford, Oregon (Riverside Campus) and White City (Table Rock Campus).[49]

Law enforcement

[edit]

The City of Grants Pass is served by individual departments, each with their own respective buildings.[50]

Media

[edit]

Newspapers

[edit]

The Grants Pass Daily Courier is the region's newspaper. It was established in 1885 as the Grant's Pass Courier and then Rogue River Courier. After it became a daily, the name was changed to what it is today.

The other paper of record in Josephine County is the Illinois Valley News in Cave Junction, established in 1937.

Radio

[edit]
AM
  • KAGI 930 JPR — News and Information
  • KAJO 1270 — Classic Hits/News/Talk
FM

(Medford and Ashland stations listed by Grants Pass translator frequencies)

  • KDOV 88.1 Religious
  • KLXG 91.1 K-LOVE — Religious
  • KTMT-FM 92.1 Top 40
  • KIFS 93.1 Top 40
  • KRRM 94.7 Traditional Country
  • KBOY-FM 96.1 Classic Rock
  • KROG 96.9 The Rogue — Active Rock
  • KLDR 98.3 Top 40
  • KRWQ 98.7 Country
  • KCMD 99.3 Oldies
  • KLDZ 100.7 Classic Hits
  • KSOR 101.5 JPR Classical
  • KCNA 102.7 The Drive — Classic Hits
  • KAWZ 103.1 CSN — Religious
  • KAKT 104.7 Country
  • KMED 106.3 News/Talk
  • KGPZ-LP 106.7 Christian
  • KCMX-FM 107.1 Adult Contemporary
  • KJCR-LP 107.9 Catholic Talk

Transportation

[edit]

Road

[edit]

Bus

[edit]

Rail

[edit]

Air

[edit]

Notable people

[edit]

National Football League (NFL) players

[edit]

Sister city

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Grants Pass, Oregon

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Grants Pass is a city in Josephine County, southwestern , , serving as the county seat and located along the Rogue River in the . Incorporated in following its establishment as a railhead in 1884, the city has a population of approximately 39,000 residents and an elevation of 948 feet. The city's economy historically relied on , , and , but has diversified into , healthcare, retail, and local manufacturing, with efforts to support smaller businesses and improve living standards. Grants Pass promotes its mild through the longstanding "It's the Climate" slogan, featured on a sign erected over downtown in 1920 to attract visitors and settlers, bolstering a sector centered on Rogue River activities such as jet boating, , and .

History

Founding and Early Development

The area now known as Grants Pass was originally inhabited by the Takelma Native American tribe prior to European-American settlement in the mid-19th century. Settlement accelerated following the discovery of gold in nearby Jacksonville in the 1850s, drawing prospectors and farmers to the Rogue River Valley through routes like the , which passed through the region in the late 1840s. The Grants Pass post office was established on March 22, 1865, named in honor of General Ulysses S. Grant's Union victory at Vicksburg the previous year. During the 1860s, the site functioned primarily as a stagecoach stop along routes connecting to the . Completion of the Oregon and California Railroad (later Southern Pacific) in 1884 transformed the location into a railhead, spurring economic activity tied to and . The city was incorporated on October 20, 1887, and designated as the seat of Josephine County, supplanting Kerby; its population expanded from approximately 250 residents in 1880 to 1,432 by 1890, reflecting influxes driven by rail access and regional resource extraction.

Timber Boom and Mid-20th Century Growth

The post-World War II era marked a timber boom in Josephine County, where Grants Pass serves as the , driven by surging national demand for to support housing construction and economic expansion. Timber harvests escalated sharply, rising from about 50 million board feet (MMBF) in 1940 to 193 MMBF in 1950 and peaking at 640 MMBF in 1952, reflecting intensified logging of Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, and other species on both public and private lands. This growth was facilitated by federal policies prioritizing timber output from lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and , which supplied the bulk of the county's harvest volume by the early . The influx of logging operations spurred industrial development, with the number of sawmills in Josephine County reaching a high of 81 in 1948 to process the increased yield, employing thousands in , hauling, and milling activities. expanded accordingly, including new roads and to access remote timber stands in southwestern Oregon's rugged terrain, transforming the regional economy where timber became the dominant sector. Grants Pass benefited directly as a hub for workers and suppliers, with its population increasing from 6,028 in to 7,980 in , a 32.4% rise attributable in large part to timber-related migration and job opportunities. By the mid-1950s, sustained high s—averaging over 400 MMBF annually through 1959—supported continued modest population growth into the early , alongside diversification into production to meet evolving market needs. However, this period also saw early signs of consolidation, as smaller mills faced from larger operations adopting mechanized technologies, setting the stage for later restructuring. The boom solidified Grants Pass's identity as a lumber-dependent , with timber receipts forming a critical base for until federal harvest reductions in subsequent decades.

Late 20th and 21st Century Transitions

In the late and , Grants Pass, like much of , experienced economic strain from the sharp decline in the regional timber industry, driven by reduced federal forest harvests that fell over 90% between the late and 2000 due to environmental regulations and shifting land management policies. Josephine County, heavily reliant on timber revenues for public services, faced budget shortfalls as payments from federal timber sales dropped significantly, exacerbating local fiscal pressures without corresponding tax increases. Despite these challenges, the city's grew steadily, rising from approximately in 1980 to over 30,000 by 2000, fueled by migration to the for its mild climate and opportunities. At the turn of the , the loss of timber-related funds combined with low revenues prompted citywide public safety layoffs and service cuts in Grants Pass, highlighting the vulnerabilities of a timber-dependent transitioning amid broader Oregon timber production lows in the early . In response, local efforts emphasized diversification, promoting centered on the Rogue River for jet boating and , alongside growth in healthcare services and light manufacturing to stabilize employment and attract residents. The population continued expanding, reaching a peak of 39,477 around 2020 before stabilizing near 39,183 by 2023, with median household income climbing to $56,877 amid these shifts. Into the 2010s and 2020s, Grants Pass pursued resilience through targeted investments, including tourism marketing that boosted visitor metrics post-2020 pandemic recovery and infrastructure upgrades like water treatment to support industrial growth. However, persistent fiscal constraints from earlier revenue losses and limited diversification persisted, with county-wide population projections indicating modest growth led by Grants Pass absorbing a larger share of Josephine County's residents. Recent strategic plans prioritize smaller local businesses and climate adaptation planning to mitigate wildfire risks and sustain the "It's the Climate" appeal that underpins tourism, though resource limitations hinder comprehensive implementation.

Geography

Location and Topography

Grants Pass is the county seat of Josephine County in southwestern Oregon, United States, positioned along Interstate 5 approximately 30 miles (48 km) northwest of Medford. The city's central coordinates are approximately 42.44°N latitude and 123.33°W longitude. It lies directly on the banks of the Rogue River, which flows through the urban area and defines much of its eastern and southern boundaries. The topography of Grants Pass features a low-elevation valley setting in the broader Rogue River Valley, with the city center at an elevation of about 950 feet (290 meters) above sea level. This valley position within the Klamath Mountains provides relatively flat to gently rolling terrain suitable for urban development, interspersed with riverine floodplains and adjacent hillslopes. Elevations rise gradually to surrounding foothills, with nearby peaks such as Grants Pass Peak reaching 3,824 feet (1,166 meters) to the southwest. The Rogue River's course through the city contributes to a dynamic landscape of riparian zones and occasional alluvial deposits, influencing local drainage patterns and susceptibility to seasonal flooding.

Climate and Natural Environment

Grants Pass experiences a classified as Csb under the Köppen system, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual temperature is approximately 52°F (11°C), with marking the hottest month at an average high of 88°F (31°C) and low of 58°F (14°C), while is the coolest with highs around 46°F (8°C) and lows near 32°F (0°C). Annual totals about 31 inches (787 mm), concentrated from to May, with dry conditions prevailing in summer that can lead to stress on . Snowfall is minimal, averaging less than 3 inches annually, primarily in and . The city's natural environment is shaped by its position in the at an elevation of roughly 960 feet (293 m), where the Rogue River flows through a floodplain flanked by terraced hills and the to the southwest. Dominant soils include Newberg fine sandy loam in the valley floor and floodplain, supporting agriculture and urban development, while upland areas feature more variable types prone to erosion. The surrounding Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest encompasses diverse temperate coniferous forests with over 3,500 plant species, including , ponderosa pine, and madrone, transitioning to oak woodlands at lower elevations. The Rogue River itself, designated as Wild and Scenic for 84 miles starting near Grants Pass, provides high-quality habitat for anadromous fish like and , as well as riparian ecosystems. Wildlife in the region is abundant, with the Rogue River corridor hosting (sighted in 95% of multi-day river trips), North American river otters (65% sighting rate), bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and great blue herons. Black bears are common in the national forest, drawn to human food sources if not properly managed, alongside occasional sightings of western pond turtles and salmonid runs that sustain predatory birds and mammals. These habitats reflect the area's , bolstered by the river's role in connecting coastal and inland ecosystems. Natural hazards pose ongoing risks, with 89% of Josephine County exhibiting moderate to high wildfire potential due to dry summers, fuel loads in forests, and climate-driven trends toward more frequent fires. Flooding occurs principally from Rogue River overflows during heavy winter rains, affecting low-lying areas, while earthquakes present a moderate threat from regional , though no major events have been recorded locally. Droughts exacerbate for the river-dependent , influencing populations and vegetation . Mitigation efforts, outlined in the county's Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan, emphasize management and to address these vulnerabilities.

Demographics

The population of Grants Pass has exhibited steady growth since its incorporation in 1887, accelerating in the late 20th and early 21st centuries primarily due to net in-migration attracted by the region's climate, outdoor recreation opportunities, and affordability relative to larger urban centers. Decennial U.S. Census data reflect this trajectory: 23,003 residents in 2000, rising to 34,641 in 2010 (a 50.6% increase), and reaching 39,194 in 2020 (a 13.1% increase from 2010). This post-2000 expansion aligned with broader Josephine County trends, where migration accounted for nearly all growth between 2000 and 2006, driven by retirees and families seeking rural lifestyles. Recent estimates indicate stagnation or modest decline amid economic pressures, including housing shortages and regional unemployment spikes following timber industry contractions. U.S. Census Bureau annual estimates pegged the 2023 city population at approximately 39,183, a slight 0.13% increase from 2022 but down from the 2020 peak when adjusted for post-census revisions. The (MSA), encompassing Josephine County, similarly hovered around 88,000 in 2023-2024, with minimal net change reflecting outflows to adjacent counties like Jackson. Projections vary based on modeling assumptions, but recent analyses forecast subdued growth or continued decline for the due to aging demographics, limited new housing development within the (UGB), and out-migration tied to fiscal constraints in county services. Portland State University's Center for Population Research, via Oregon state forecasts, anticipates Josephine County reaching 100,554 by 2045, implying potential city growth to around 45,000-50,000 if historical urban-rural shares hold, though city-specific models like those from ECONorthwest (updated in city planning documents) have historically overestimated, projecting 57,888 within the UGB by 2027—a target unmet as of 2024. Independent estimates suggest a 2025 city population of 39,075, reflecting an annual decline rate of -0.09%.
YearCity Population% Change from Prior Decade
200023,003—
201034,641+50.6%
202039,194+13.1%

Ethnic Composition and Socioeconomic Metrics

As of the latest available estimates from the U.S. Bureau, the population of Grants Pass is predominantly , with 85.8% identifying as White alone, followed by smaller proportions of other groups including 0.6% Black or African American alone and 0.6% American Indian and Alaska Native alone. Asian residents account for approximately 1% of the population, reflecting limited diversity compared to national averages. The or Latino population, of any race, comprises about 10% of residents, consistent with regional patterns in driven by agricultural and service sector employment. Socioeconomic metrics indicate modest prosperity relative to state and national benchmarks. The median household income stood at $56,877 in 2022, below Oregon's statewide median of around $76,000 but supported by local sectors like retail and healthcare. The is approximately $30,773, highlighting income disparities possibly linked to an aging and part-time prevalence. affects 15.52% of residents, exceeding the U.S. average of 11.5% and correlating with challenges in affordability and job stability in a post-timber . registered at 7.5% in 2023, elevated due to seasonal work fluctuations and limited high-skill opportunities. Educational attainment levels show 92% of adults over 25 holding at least a or equivalent, with about 20% possessing a or higher, trailing national figures and underscoring gaps in access to advanced training amid economic transitions. These metrics, derived from data, reflect structural factors such as rural isolation and reliance on lower-wage industries rather than institutional biases in reporting.

Government and Politics

City Governance Structure

Grants Pass operates under a council-manager form of government, as defined in its city charter adopted to provide structured municipal administration. In this system, policy-making authority resides with an elected mayor and city council, who appoint a professional to oversee daily operations, implement decisions, and manage city departments. The mayor and council members serve without compensation, functioning as volunteers dedicated to legislative oversight rather than administrative execution. The city council consists of eight members, elected to staggered four-year terms, with representation structured across four wards to ensure localized input into . The mayor, elected citywide separately from councilors, presides over council meetings, votes on issues, and represents the city in ceremonial and intergovernmental capacities but lacks veto power or independent executive authority. Council meetings occur regularly, typically bi-weekly, where ordinances, budgets, and policies are debated and adopted by majority vote. The city manager, appointed by and directly accountable to the council, holds administrative responsibilities including budget preparation, personnel management, and enforcement of council directives, ensuring professional continuity amid elected turnover. This structure emphasizes separation between elected policymaking and appointed execution, aiming to mitigate risks of patronage or inefficiency common in stronger-mayor systems. As of October 2025, Mayor Clint Scherf leads the council, which includes members such as Rob Pell, Indra Nicholas, Rick Riker, Victoria Marshall, Erich Schloegl, Seth Benham, Joel King, and Kathleen Krohn, following the January 2025 swearing-in of several new councilors after the November 2024 elections.

Political Landscape and Voter Patterns

Josephine County, home to Grants Pass, demonstrates a consistent Republican majority in presidential voting patterns. In the 2020 general election, Donald Trump secured 19,566 votes (64.1 percent of major-party votes) against Joe Biden's 10,946 (35.9 percent). This margin closely mirrored the 2024 results, where Trump received 31,129 votes (64.8 percent) to Kamala Harris's 16,928 (35.2 percent). Such outcomes have characterized the county's support for Republican presidential nominees since at least 2000, diverging from Oregon's statewide Democratic lean. Local elections in Grants Pass operate under a nonpartisan framework for city council and mayoral races, yet candidates' partisan identifications often align with voter preferences. The November 2024 general election marked a notable shift, with Republican-affiliated challenger Clint Scherf defeating incumbent Mayor Sara Bristol and four new Republican-identifying councilors securing seats, resulting in a council majority favoring conservative priorities. These results underscore patterns of voter emphasis on fiscal conservatism, public safety, and resistance to progressive state policies imposed from Salem. Voter turnout in Josephine County typically exceeds state averages in high-stakes elections, reflecting engaged rural electorates prioritizing issues like and intervention. While Oregon's no-party-affiliation voters constitute a significant portion statewide, county-level behavior indicates de facto Republican dominance, as evidenced by measures and commissioner races favoring fiscal restraint and local control.

Fiscal and Administrative Challenges

Grants Pass has encountered persistent fiscal pressures, particularly in funding infrastructure maintenance and public services amid declining federal support and rising operational costs. In April 2025, the city faced significant setbacks when approximately $225 million in federal grants for communities were placed in limbo due to Trump administration policy shifts, directly impacting Grants Pass's planned replacement of its aging water treatment plant, a project officials had anticipated would break ground soon thereafter. This funding gap necessitated considerations for alternative borrowing, potentially leading to utility rate increases to cover loan repayments, as discussed in city council deliberations in July 2025. Administrative challenges have compounded these fiscal strains, including leadership transitions and resource allocation disputes tied to management. Following a U.S. ruling in June 2024 upholding the city's anti-camping ordinances, Grants Pass elected a new and four city councilors in 2025, aiming to refocus governance on enforcement and efficiency. However, a subsequent August 2025 settlement with disability rights advocates required the city to allocate 150 designated camping spaces and $60,000 for related services, diverting funds from other priorities despite the legal victory and highlighting ongoing litigation costs that burden municipal budgets. The city's 2025-2027 Strategic Plan explicitly prioritizes fiscal stability alongside public safety and , reflecting recognition of structural vulnerabilities such as reliance on districts for development funding and the need for sustainable revenue streams to address aging assets like the Caveman Bridge. These efforts occur against a backdrop of broader regional constraints, as Josephine County's June 2025 adoption of a $182 million with 12% general fund cuts to departments—including sheriff services—limits intergovernmental support for shared public safety and administrative functions. Commissioners' overrides of committee recommendations to bolster funding underscore internal tensions that indirectly strain city resources.

Economy

Traditional Industries and Their Decline

Historically, Grants Pass and surrounding Josephine County relied on as a foundational industry following the mid-19th-century gold discoveries along the Rogue River, which drew prospectors and spurred early settlement. Gold mining peaked in the 1850s and 1860s, with operations including and hydraulic methods extracting significant yields, such as from the Illinois Valley and Galice Creek areas; however, by the early 20th century, easily accessible deposits diminished, leading to a sharp decline as surface claims were exhausted and deeper vein mining proved uneconomical without modern technology. By 1930, mining's economic dominance waned, transitioning to sporadic small-scale and recreational panning rather than large-scale production. Agriculture emerged as a complementary traditional sector around the turn of the , bolstered by the establishment of the Grants Pass Irrigation District in , which facilitated fruit orchards, particularly pears and berries, in the . This sector supported local processing and export, contributing to steady employment through the mid-; yet, it faced gradual pressures from water rights disputes, labor costs, and competition, resulting in slower growth rather than outright collapse, with Josephine County's agricultural output remaining a minor but persistent component of the regional . The timber industry dominated Grants Pass's economy from the post-World War II era through the late 20th century, driven by abundant federal forests managed by the U.S. Forest Service and , which controlled approximately 60% of Josephine County's land base. Annual timber harvests in doubled from 3.0 billion board feet in 1922 to over 6.7 billion by 1942, fueling sawmills, plywood plants, and operations in Grants Pass that employed thousands and accounted for a substantial share of local GDP; wood products manufacturing represented 10.5% of 's private-sector output in 1980. This sector's decline accelerated in the late 20th century due to a confluence of market downturns and regulatory restrictions. A 1979 recession caused lumber prices to plummet 48% over three years, but the most severe contraction followed the 1994 Northwest Forest Plan, implemented under the Endangered Species Act to protect the northern spotted owl and old-growth habitats, slashing federal timber harvests in Oregon by over 90%—from 2 billion board feet in 1990 to about 200 million by 2015. In Josephine County, heavily reliant on these federal allocations, logging and wood products employment statewide fell 18% from 15,774 jobs in 1990 to 12,887 by 2000, with further losses of nearly 900 jobs (15%) between 2019 and 2024 amid mill closures and reduced stumpage. The policy-driven harvest reductions, rather than solely exhaustion of resources, precipitated economic stagnation, with timber's share of Oregon's output shrinking to 1.0% by the 2010s, exacerbating unemployment and fiscal strains in rural counties like Josephine.

Modern Economic Sectors

The economy of Grants Pass has shifted toward service-oriented sectors, with and social assistance leading as the largest employer, reflecting broader trends in rural communities adapting to demographic aging and regional healthcare demands. In 2023, this sector employed 5,274 individuals, accounting for approximately 15.7% of the local workforce of 33,500. Healthcare support occupations, including roles in hospitals and facilities, represented 17.8% of total employment as of May 2024, underscoring the sector's dominance amid a hourly of $27.88 across all occupations. Tourism has grown as a modern pillar, capitalizing on the Rogue River's appeal for jet boating, , and , which draws visitors and supports ancillary services like lodging and guiding operations. Recent marketing initiatives and metrics indicate resilience and expansion in visitor numbers, particularly post-pandemic, with Grants Pass outperforming regional averages in recovery through targeted promotions. The sector benefits from natural assets, contributing to economic diversification alongside retirement services oriented toward older demographics attracted by the area's mild climate. Retail trade and remain significant, with the latter focusing on non-timber products and expected to add around 72 jobs annually in the broader through 2031, driven by local fabrication and assembly operations. efforts emphasize supporting small businesses in these areas to enhance living standards, though challenges persist in attracting larger-scale or traded-sector firms. Overall, these sectors reflect a transition from resource extraction, with reaching $3.877 billion in 2023, up from $3.079 billion in 2019.

Unemployment, Poverty, and Policy Critiques

The unemployment rate in the Grants Pass stood at 5.8% for 2024, the highest among Oregon's metro areas and tying for the 23rd highest nationally, exceeding the state average of approximately 5.0%. This figure reflects seasonal adjustments and aligns with data showing persistent elevation compared to pre-pandemic lows of around 3.9% in late 2019. Josephine County, encompassing Grants Pass, has consistently reported unemployment rates above state levels, with factors including job losses in cyclical sectors contributing to the disparity. Poverty affects 15.5% of Grants Pass residents for whom status is determined, equating to roughly 5,941 individuals out of a population base of 38,300, a rate surpassing Oregon's statewide figure of 9.7%. Updated estimates place the rate at 15.8% for 2023, with median household income at $59,097, indicating limited wage growth amid rising living costs. These metrics stem from U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, which highlight structural vulnerabilities rather than transient shocks, as poverty has hovered above 18% in prior assessments for the county. Policy critiques center on Oregon's voter-approved property tax limitations under Measures 5 (1990) and 50 (1997), which cap assessed values and revenues, constraining Josephine County's budget and leading to service cuts in public safety, road maintenance, and initiatives. These restrictions have resulted in chronic deficits, with the county unable to fund basic infrastructure or adequately, exacerbating by deterring investment and reducing workforce mobility—evidenced by stalled projects and higher operational costs for remaining employers. Critics from rural economic analyses argue that while intended to control taxes, the measures foster a cycle of underinvestment, as seen in the county's failure to diversify beyond timber-dependent economies post-2008 recession, when spiked due to intertwined and industry collapses. Proponents of reform, including local development reports, contend that without revenue flexibility, policies perpetuate poverty traps, as diminished services correlate with elevated social costs and labor market friction, though empirical links to specific job creation shortfalls remain debated amid broader state-level and challenges.

Social Issues

Homelessness Policies and Enforcement

Grants Pass has enacted municipal ordinances prohibiting camping, sleeping, or using bedding materials on public property, including streets, sidewalks, and parks, with civil fines starting at $295 escalating to criminal penalties for repeat violations. These measures, codified in city code sections such as 5.08.010 (prohibiting public camping) and related provisions, aim to address visible encampments rather than the status of itself, as affirmed by the U.S. in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson on June 28, 2024. The 6-3 ruling held that such enforcement does not constitute under the Eighth Amendment, rejecting Ninth Circuit precedents that required adequate shelter alternatives before penalizing outdoor sleeping. Prior to the Supreme Court decision, federal injunctions from 2018 onward, stemming from a class-action by homeless residents, barred the city from applying these ordinances to individuals without access to non-congregate , citing Eighth Amendment violations. Enforcement was thus limited, contributing to persistent encampments estimated at 500-600 homeless individuals in a city of about 40,000, amid Josephine County's limited capacity—insufficient beds for the reported 1,200 unhoused as of early 2025. Post-ruling, the city resumed enforcement, designating specific sites for sanctioned camping while prohibiting it elsewhere, including evictions from parks with 72-hour notices issued starting August 2025. In August 2025, following a settlement with advocates, Grants Pass committed to providing 150 designated spaces and $60,000 in support services, such as case , while banning encampments on all other city property. However, new legal challenges have delayed full clearance of some downtown camps, with four fenced sites remaining as of June 2025 despite the ruling. Under new city leadership elected in 2024, policies shifted toward stricter enforcement combined with expanded low-barrier services, though homelessness counts in Josephine County continued rising into 2025, reflecting broader trends where shelter shortages persist despite state emergency extensions. Grants Pass experiences elevated crime rates compared to national averages, with property crimes predominating. In analyses from 2025, the overall crime rate is approximately 40.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, exceeding the U.S. average by about 20-30 incidents per 1,000; stands at 4.4 per 1,000, while reaches 36.0 per 1,000, including 3.4 thefts per 1,000. These figures derive from aggregated local reporting to federal databases, though underreporting of minor property offenses may inflate perceived disparities relative to national benchmarks. Recent trends indicate a spike in property crimes, prompting local security concerns, with rates remaining significantly above national norms despite some year-over-year fluctuations. For instance, property crime decreased 9% in one recent period but has since surged, linked to economic pressures and transient populations in Josephine County. Violent crime has shown modest increases, up 8% year-over-year in available data, with 158 incidents reported in 2024 yielding a rate of roughly 395 per 100,000 residents based on city population estimates. Statewide Oregon trends mirror partial declines, with overall crime down 7.3% from 2023 to 2024, though local metrics in Grants Pass lag behind this recovery. Public safety is managed by the Grants Pass , a consolidated police and agency with 57 officers serving a of about 34,500, emphasizing integrated responses to emergencies and . Key measures include the Unit's program, which fosters community vigilance against property crimes and . Targeted enforcement operations focus on traffic safety, violations, seatbelt compliance, and speed, funded through grants to reduce accidents and related offenses. Broader initiatives encompass public education on , , and , alongside tools like the Josephine Alert Network for real-time notifications and reporting systems to streamline non-emergency incident logging. The department also recruits public safety cadets for entry-level support roles to bolster staffing amid fiscal constraints. These efforts aim to address causal factors like poverty-driven theft, though clearance rates for property crimes remain challenged by resource limitations in rural counties.

Culture and Recreation

Arts, Events, and Cultural Institutions

The Grants Pass Museum of Art, founded in 1979, functions as the city's central institution for , displaying rotating exhibitions of in downtown's and offering workshops accessible to participants of all ages. It organizes events such as the annual Art in the Garden, launched in 1996, which features outdoor art displays amid private gardens to support museum operations. The museum also hosts the Luey Luey , blending performance and community engagement to promote local creativity. Performing arts are anchored by the Historic Rogue Theatre, a nonprofit venue presenting live theater productions, music concerts—including tributes like those to Harry Potter scores—and holiday events such as O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy. The Rogue Valley Symphony extends classical performances to Grants Pass audiences through select concerts at local halls, alongside its primary regional venues. Community theaters and live music series further sustain ongoing engagement, with downtown galleries and a public art walk encouraging visual arts exploration. Cultural events include , an annual neighborhood where performers stage free concerts on residential porches to foster participation. Other gatherings, such as BearFest, integrate with local traditions, though specific programming varies yearly and emphasizes accessible, community-driven experiences over large-scale institutional backing. These activities, supported by tourism and chamber initiatives, highlight Grants Pass's modest but active ecosystem amid its rural setting.

Outdoor Recreation and Natural Sites

The Rogue River, designated as Wild and Scenic, dominates outdoor recreation in Grants Pass, offering whitewater rafting trips ranging from Class I to Class IV rapids on sections like Hellgate Canyon for day excursions and multi-day floats to Blossom Bar. Local outfitters such as Arrowhead River Adventures and Orange Torpedo Trips provide guided rafting, accommodating beginners to experts with equipment and safety briefings. Jetboat tours, operated by companies like Hellgate Jetboat Excursions, traverse 34 miles of canyon terrain at speeds up to 50 mph, enabling access to remote areas for wildlife observation including river otters, ospreys, and occasional black bears. Fishing for Chinook salmon, steelhead, and trout draws anglers, with peak seasons from spring to fall and permits required under Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations. Hiking opportunities abound in the adjacent Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and Josephine County parks, with trails like the Cathedral Hills Loop—a 3.2-mile circuit gaining 830 feet through oak woodlands and meadows—suitable for moderate hikers year-round. Other paths, such as the Skycrest Trail and Reinhart Volunteer Park loops, offer shorter, family-friendly options with interpretive signs on local flora like ponderosa pine and , while providing overlooks of the . Riverside Park along the Rogue River serves as a launch point for and , featuring picnic areas, boat ramps, and riverfront trails maintained by the city. Schroeder County Park upstream includes equestrian trails and river access for and picnicking amid riparian habitats. Natural sites emphasize the region's and , with the corridor nearby hosting the East Fork Illinois River Trail for backpacking through old-growth forests and marble outcrops en route to Kalmiopsis Wilderness. Oregon Caves National Monument, 45 miles southwest in Siskiyou National Forest, features guided cave tours through 2-mile marble passages formed over 200,000 years ago, complemented by surface trails to waterfalls and conifer groves. Wildlife rehabilitation at centers like Wildlife Images allows observation of native species such as eagles and cougars in aviaries mimicking Rogue Basin ecosystems, though focused on education rather than wild encounters. These attractions underscore Grants Pass's position amid diverse terrains, from river gorges to forested ridges, supporting over 300 miles of maintained trails in Josephine County.

Education

Public School System

The Grants Pass School District 7 operates 11 public schools serving approximately 5,725 students, comprising six elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools. The district, the third-largest in , enrolls students from Grants Pass and surrounding areas in Josephine County, with 44.3% classified as economically disadvantaged and 30% from minority groups. For the 2023-24 school year, the district reported a four-year graduation rate of 79.4%, its highest on record, alongside a four-year completer rate of 88.4%. At Grants Pass High School, the primary comprehensive high school, the graduation rate stood at 88%, with the institution ranked 3,359th nationally based on state test performance, graduation, and college readiness metrics. State assessment proficiency levels remain below national averages, with 41% of elementary students meeting or exceeding standards in reading and 27% in during recent testing cycles. The district's strategic plan emphasizes elevating K-12 outcomes in reading, writing, and , setting targets such as 38% proficiency in fifth-grade for 2024-25, rising to 41% the following year. Annual district revenue totals $82.4 million, supporting per-pupil instructional spending of $8,382, with additional allocations for support services at $4,486 per pupil. Funding challenges have emerged post-pandemic, as federal relief expired, straining budgets amid Oregon's statewide pattern of elevated per-pupil expenditures correlated with modest outcome gains in empirical analyses of similar districts.

Higher Education and Vocational Training

Rogue Community College operates its Redwood Campus in Grants Pass at 3345 Redwood Highway, serving as the primary institution for higher education in the area. Established on a former Job Corps site spanning 80 wooded acres west of the city, the campus provides associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year institutions. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, with courses approved by the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission. The college enrolls students in fields such as , sciences, and liberal arts, with 62 percent of undergraduates receiving grant or aid averaging $4,817 annually. In-state tuition supports accessible two-year pathways, emphasizing career preparation and community needs in . Vocational training at the Redwood Campus includes programs in trades like electrical, , and , combining paid work experience with classroom instruction registered through the U.S. Department of Labor. Workforce development offerings cover short-term certificates in areas such as healthcare assistance and , tailored for local employment demands. Additional programs, including pre- training through 71Five VoTech for youth entering family-wage trades, supplement RCC's efforts with Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries certification. These initiatives address regional skill gaps without reliance on four-year degrees.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Road Networks and Major Routes

![Caveman Bridge over the Rogue River in Grants Pass, Oregon][float-right] Grants Pass is served primarily by (I-5), the main north-south highway along the West Coast, which passes through the city with exits at milepost 55 (southbound access to US 199) and milepost 58 (northbound access via Business Loop I-5). I-5 facilitates connections northward to Roseburg and southward to Medford, carrying significant freight and commuter traffic parallel to the Rogue River. U.S. Route 199 (US 199), known as the Redwood Highway, terminates at I-5 in Grants Pass after entering from via Crescent City, spanning approximately 80 miles across the California-Oregon border and providing access to coastal redwood forests and the Illinois Valley. In Grants Pass, US 199 bypasses downtown via a trumpet interchange at Exit 55 and intersects with Oregon Route 238 at the "South Y" interchange, a high-traffic junction prone to congestion. Oregon Route 99, the historic alignment of US 99, functions as a business route through downtown Grants Pass along a couplet of 6th and 7th Streets, crossing the Rogue River via the 6th Street and 7th Street bridges before merging with US 199 and OR 238 southward. Oregon Route 238 extends eastward from the South Y junction toward Medford, while the short Oregon Route 260 connects the west side of Grants Pass to US 199. These state highways support local commerce and tourism, with OR 99 handling urban traffic volumes. The city's road network comprises 143 miles of streets, including a grid system in the urban core supplemented by arterials like Park Street and Northeast Stewart Boulevard for peripheral access. Josephine County maintains approximately 575 miles of rural roads radiating from Grants Pass, including bridges over the Rogue River, with ongoing maintenance addressing flood-prone areas. High-traffic zones, such as the Rogue River bridges and highway interchanges, experience seasonal peaks from recreational travel.

Public Transit, Rail, and Air Access

Public transit in Grants Pass is primarily provided by Josephine Community Transit (JCT), operated by Josephine County, which runs fixed-route bus services within the city and commuter routes to nearby areas including Medford, Rogue River, and Gold Hill. JCT services operate Monday through Friday from 5:35 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with fares structured for single rides, day passes, and monthly options; ADA is available for eligible riders. Intercity bus options include and connections from the Grants Pass station, linking to destinations such as Portland and Sacramento. Regional coordination with Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) facilitates transfers to Medford's broader network. Passenger rail access is limited, with no direct Amtrak train service stopping in Grants Pass; the local Amtrak-designated station at 132 Northeast B Street functions primarily as a Thruway bus connection point to the route, typically via Eugene, approximately 130 miles north. Freight rail lines operated by the Pacific Railroad serve the area for cargo but do not offer public passenger transport. Commercial air access relies on Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), located 24 miles northeast in Medford, offering flights via airlines such as , , Delta, and United to hubs including , Portland, , and . The airport handled over 500,000 passengers in 2023, with ground connections from Grants Pass available via JCT commuter buses or private shuttles; smaller facilities like Grants Pass Airport exist locally but lack scheduled commercial service.

Notable Residents

Athletes and Sports Figures

Bill Dellinger, born March 23, 1934, in Grants Pass, was a middle-distance runner who competed for the in the Olympics in 1956, 1960, and 1964, earning a in the 1,500 meters at the 1964 Games. A alumnus, Dellinger later served as head coach of the Ducks' program from 1973 to 1998, mentoring numerous Olympians including . Brandon Drury, born August 21, 1992, in Grants Pass, is a who debuted in with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015 after being drafted by the in 2010. He has played for multiple teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and , accumulating over 800 hits and 100 home runs through the 2024 season. Several players hail from Grants Pass. Jerry Sherk, born July 7, 1948, there, was a who played nine seasons primarily with the from 1970 to 1978, earning three selections and recording 25.5 sacks. Tom Blanchard, born May 28, 1948, in the city, served as a punter for teams including the and over 11 NFL seasons from 1970 to 1981, averaging 41.3 yards per punt on 819 attempts. Pat Beach, born December 28, 1959, in Grants Pass, played for the and Phoenix Cardinals from 1982 to 1994, catching 163 passes for 1,558 yards.

Other Prominent Individuals

, an American actor recognized for portraying Phil Dunphy in the ABC sitcom from 2009 to 2020, was born in Grants Pass on August 22, 1967. For his performance, he won two for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2011 and 2012. , an actor known for roles such as in Alias (2001–2006) and Blaine DeBeers in iZombie (2015–2019), was born in Grants Pass on March 11, 1981. Ralph Wright, a Disney animator, writer, and voice artist who provided the voice for Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh productions including The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977), was born in Grants Pass on May 17, 1908, and died on December 31, 1983.

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  64. https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2025/08/15/grants-pass-to-provide-150-camping-spaces-60k-in-services-after-disability-rights-suit/
  65. https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/DocumentCenter/View/33263/City-of-Grants-Pass-Strategic-Plan-2025-2027
  66. https://www.grantspasstribune.com/josephine-county-budget-committee-finalizes-cuts-fewer-services-ahead-sheriffs-request-denied/
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  68. https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/american-rescue-plan/build-back-better/case-studies/Oregon-Mass-Timber-Coalition
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  86. https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/23pdf/23-175_19m2.pdf
  87. https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/july-2024/grants-pass-v-johnson
  88. https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/LSB11203
  89. https://grantspassoregon.gov/Faq.aspx?QID=258
  90. https://freopp.org/oppblog/policy-implications-grants-pass/
  91. https://fhco.org/bridging-the-gap-addressing-the-unhoused-crisis-in-grants-pass/
  92. https://www.opb.org/article/2025/08/16/grants-pass-camping-spaces-disability-rights/
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  94. https://www.npr.org/2025/06/30/nx-s1-5435764/after-supreme-court-ruling-grants-pass-still-cant-remove-a-homeless-encampment
  95. https://www.opb.org/article/2025/01/09/new-grants-pass-leadership-drastically-changes-citys-approach-homelessness/
  96. https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2025/01/09/with-homelessness-crisis-continuing-oregon-governor-extends-emergency/
  97. https://reolink.com/blog/most-dangerous-cities-in-oregon/
  98. https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/or/grants-pass/crime
  99. https://www.grantspasstribune.com/spike-in-property-crime-prompts-security-concerns-in-grants-pass-and-josephine-county/
  100. https://www.areavibes.com/grants%2Bpass-or/crime/
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  103. https://www.lexipol.com/resources/case-studies/grants-pass-or-department-of-public-safety/
  104. https://www.facebook.com/groups/47907229547/posts/10163362205159548/
  105. https://www.facebook.com/grantspasspolice/
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  107. https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/188/Police
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  113. https://www.roguetheatre.org/
  114. https://rvsymphony.org/venues/
  115. https://visitgrantspass.com/blog/immerse-yourself-in-arts-and-culture-in-grants-pass/
  116. https://business.grantspasschamber.org/list/ql/arts-culture-entertainment-3
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  118. http://www.orangetorpedo.com/rogue-river-rafting/
  119. https://visitgrantspass.com/explore/attractions/wildlife-viewing/
  120. https://visitgrantspass.com/explore/outdoor-adventure/fishing/
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  148. https://www.aaroads.com/guides/or-099-south-grants-pass
  149. https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/1201/Transportation-System-Plan
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  157. https://flymfr.com/
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  159. https://www.olympedia.org/athletes/78315
  160. https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/2017/05/the_best_36_sports_figures_in.html
  161. https://www.mlb.com/player/brandon-drury-592273
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