Summary of Oct. 6 board of directors meeting
At its Oct. 6 meeting, the Bend Park & Recreation District Board of Directors reviewed a proposed shared framework developed jointly with the City of Bend and received an update on a Deschutes River Trail connection study. A video recording of the meeting is available.
Shared framework with City of Bend
District staff explained that conversations between BPRD and the City of Bend began in spring 2026 and evolved into a broader discussion about how housing, parks, trails, transportation, environmental stewardship and community well-being intersect as Bend continues to grow. The framework establishes a shared vision and identifies opportunities for future collaboration while recognizing the unique missions, governance responsibilities and financial constraints of each organization.
During development of the proposal, district leadership emphasized protecting the district’s long-term financial sustainability and operational responsibilities while exploring opportunities to address community challenges collaboratively. Staff indicated the City of Bend plans to consider the framework later this month and recommended that the board consider formal adoption at its Oct. 20 business meeting.
Deschutes River Trail South Refinement Study
During the work session, the board received an update on the Deschutes River Trail South Refinement Study, which is evaluating options for completing the southern gap in the regional trail system. Staff and consultants from Kittelson & Associates reviewed work completed during the first two phases of the study, including documentation of existing conditions, development of potential trail alignments and public outreach efforts. The study is intended to provide additional information about potential trail routes, permitting requirements, environmental considerations, costs and feasibility.
Board members also heard an overview of community engagement conducted to date, including input from the project’s Stakeholder Advisory Group and the public. The project team reported that it is now moving into the alternatives analysis phase, during which potential alignments will be evaluated against established criteria. The study will ultimately identify preferred alternatives for more detailed feasibility analysis, providing information to guide future community conversations and board decision-making related to the completion of the Deschutes River Trail South connection. No action was taken at the meeting.
The next board of directors meeting is Oct. 20.
