Downtown Bend parking causes confusion and dismay, but remains in high demand

Downtown Bend is currently facing significant challenges with its parking system, especially during the holiday rush, leading to heightened confusion and dissatisfaction among customers and local businesses. Many business owners, such as JoAnne Sunnarborg from the Desperado Boutique, have reported that customers often express frustration over complicated payment options and time limits. Although city data indicates that the parking system is generally effective, the feedback suggests that it is not user-friendly, causing potential harm to sales. The city of Bend is considering adjustments to the parking management for 2025 in response to these concerns. Despite a recent decline in tourism and room tax collections, some local businesses have noted a drop in sales that they attribute to parking difficulties, though no concrete data links the two.

The established two-hour parking limit, while deemed sufficient by city studies, is seen as inadequate by many regular visitors. As the city’s parking management evolves, the focus remains on addressing the needs of both consumers and local businesses. Stakeholders are hopeful that forthcoming changes will create a more welcoming environment for shopping and dining downtown.