Bend hosts open house on bikeways project

The Bend Bikeway Project is set to revolutionize the cycling landscape in Bend, Oregon, by creating a connected network of bicycle routes designed for safer travel throughout the city. An open house launched on December 16, 2024, will allow residents to provide feedback on the latest designs before it concludes on January 2, 2025. The project aims to address community demands for safer biking and walking options, with Mayor Melanie Kebler highlighting the importance of these improvements. Key enhancements will include shared-use paths, a protected intersection at Butler Market and Boyd Acres roads, and various safety measures like street lights and flashing beacons. The goal is to complete the bikeways by summer 2026, focusing on two significant routes connecting major developments across Bend.

The city is building upon insights gathered from an earlier open house conducted in February, ensuring that community input continues to shape the project. This initiative aligns with broader trends in urban planning, prioritizing active transportation and sustainable infrastructure. Residents are encouraged to visit the open house and engage with the designs that will impact their cycling experience in the future.