Salem's Englewood Park could gain official historic protection after a public hearing set for Sept. 17.

The Salem Historic Landmarks Commission will consider designating the northeast Salem park as a local historic resource under Case No. HIS26-15, according to the city's public notice. The hearing starts at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Salem Police Department, 333 Division St. NE.

The stakes for residents who care about the outcome: only those who testify at the hearing or submit written comments beforehand will have standing to appeal the commission's decision.

Englewood Park sits at 1260 19th St. NE. The city's park directory describes it as one of Salem's first eight parks, a neighborhood park shaded by old oak trees that shares a border with an elementary school. Walking trails loop through the grounds, and the north end holds a splash pad, playground, picnic tables and horseshoe pits.

The park marks its centennial in 2026. According to a City of Salem proclamation, the land was part of a Donation Land Claim belonging to Nancy and John Baker, early Salem settlers who arrived in Oregon in 1847. About 7.2 acres were conveyed to the city for park use in 1926.

A staff report analyzing the designation under Salem Revised Code 230.010 is expected online by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, on the Historic Landmarks Commission's page. The hearing can also be viewed live on YouTube.

Residents can submit written comments online or by email to case manager Jake Morris at [email protected] or call 503-540-2417 for more information.