Public Health Advisory
COVID-19 Operations & Requirements for Extreme Risk Level:
Parks and trails remain open.
Juniper Swim & Fitness Center and Bend Senior Center: Temporarily closed.
The Pavilion: Open for reservation-only public skating and registered programs.
The Art Station: Open for youth/childcare programs.
Other facilities/offices: Closed.
Most recreation programs canceled. Childcare and virtual classes continue.
Project Phase
- PLANNING
- DESIGN
- PERMITTING
- CONSTRUCTION
Project Overview
In 2016, Bend Park and Recreation District (BPRD) and Upper Deschutes Watershed Council (UDWC) teamed up to complete an inventory and assessment of the riverbank riparian conditions along 8 miles of district-owned property. Historic conditions and the recent growth of recreational activities in and along the river have contributed to a loss in riparian habitat. Both organizations’ boards have committed to a long-term collaboration to improve riverbank habitat and support sustainable recreational use of the river. This assessment summarized conditions at 10 locations and identified opportunities for restoration and improved river access.
The first project is located between the Bill Healy Bridge and the Farewell Bend footbridge. Working together, BPRD and UDWC staff applied for and received an OWEB technical assistance grant to hire Environmental Design Agents (ESA) to complete engineering drawings and cost estimates for the project. ESA has completed the conceptual design which includes hardened water access points, fencing, and riparian habitat improvements. A public outreach campaign will begin this summer on site to present information to river and trail users and to gather feedback. This fall, UDWC plans to apply for additional grant funding to complete construction along with BPRD’s matching funds.
The Riverbend Park South Project will serve as an example for future projects along the Deschutes River corridor. The district remains committed to the stewardship of the Deschutes River, and this project is first step in achieving balance between restoration and recreation.
Email Updates:
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Farewell Bend Bridge to the Bill Healy Bridge
$264,000
Property Tax
Spring 2021
Contact Information
For more information on the Riverbend South Access and Restoration Project, please contact
Ian Isaacson
Project Manager
Tel: (541) 706-6154
Email: Ian@bendparksandrec.org
The following renderings are conceptual and for illustrative purposes only.
Current image of Farewell Park river left frontage unimproved.
Conceptual image of Farewell Park river left frontage with improvements.
Current panoramic image of Farewell Park river left frontage unimproved.
Conceptual panoramic image of Farewell Park river left frontage with improvements.