BEND, Ore. — The Bend Park and Recreation District (BPRD) will hold an open house on April 22 to share details of an ongoing improvement project at Sawyer Park. The $1 million project, which aims to revitalize one of Bend’s oldest and most cherished parks, is set to enhance accessibility, preserve cultural and historic resources, and introduce new amenities. The open house will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the District Office, located at 799 SW Columbia St.
Sawyer Park has long been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. However, increased use and aging infrastructure have highlighted the need for improvements, particularly in the park’s entrance and parking areas. According to BPRD, the current facilities no longer meet the needs of the growing number of parkgoers.
The proposed project includes relocating the parking lot closer to O.B. Riley Road, which will also introduce accessible parking spaces. Additionally, the plans feature habitat restoration, improvements to trail accessibility, and the installation of key amenities, such as a permanent restroom, a picnic shelter, and a river overlook. The aim is to make the park more user-friendly and accessible to all.
Funding for the project comes from a $1 million grant through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which is designed to support the development and improvement of public parks across the United States. As part of the grant process, the park’s historical and cultural resources were reviewed to assess the potential impact of the proposed changes.
The project was found to have an adverse effect on some of the park’s cultural and historic resources. In response, BPRD has worked closely with the National Park Service, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, and the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office to develop a mitigation plan aimed at minimizing these impacts. Bronwen Mastro, BPRD landscape architect and project manager, will be on hand at the open house to discuss the mitigation strategies and gather feedback from the public.
The open house is designed in an informal, drop-in style format, with no formal presentation. Community members are encouraged to attend at their convenience to learn more about the project and provide input on the planned changes.
With the project expected to be completed by the summer of 2026, the improvements to Sawyer Park are set to enhance the park’s long-term viability, ensuring it remains a vital green space for future generations while respecting its cultural and historical significance.
