Why support? The footbridge is good for our environment, our democracy, our communities, and our trails
Environment: more restoration, less traffic
The already-funded footbridge would connect the existing Deschutes River Trail in Southwest Bend to the Good Dog / Rimrock Trailhead area across the water, with the entire bridge falling within land owned by the Deschutes National Forest.
After years of heavy foot traffic, we have loved this area to death.
This heavy usage will only continue. So Bend faces a choice. We can continue to do nothing, and the area will grow worse — or we can roll up our sleeves. The proposed footbridge project would enable BPRD to give this area the care and management it deserves, turning back the tide on years of damage.
That means rehabilitation, marked trails, and fencing to protect riparian areas. Connect Bend will work tirelessly to ensure that the footbridge project meets a gold standard of environmental consideration.
The footbridge will cut down on traffic, too. Currently residents in southern Bend are driving 30 minutes or more to Rimrock Trailhead — contributing to severe traffic congestion at Reed Market Road. With a bridge, they’ll walk or bike instead. Young people on the east will safely bike to schools on the west. It’s the environmentally sound way to connect our community.
(And if you’re hearing that special interest environmental are against the bridge, get the facts at our comprehensive FAQ.)
Be an environmentalist. Support the bridge.
Democracy: we voted for it
In 2012, Bend voters passed a bond measure approving funding for the completion of the Deschutes River Trail, implying a footbridge in southern Bend. The measure also funded the Bend Whitewater Park and the Pavilion Skating Rink.
So we paid for a footbridge. But we never got one.
Indeed a 2017 survey — the only poll gauging public approval on the project — found that Bend residents approve of the footbridge by a margin of 7 to 1. A 2023 survey showed virtually the same result.
So why didn’t it get built? Simple: special interests and red tape.
We in Bend must unite to protect our democracy. Local officials must stop delaying and follow through on building the footbridge Bend’s voters approved.
Community: outdoor access for all (dogs too!)
Everyone, human and canine alike, deserves access to Bend’s greatest resource — the outdoors.
Sadly, accessing the outdoors is far easier for some than others. Residents in Southwest Bend have only tiny parks. The more than 6,000 people in the Deschutes River Woods have none.
With a single stroke, the footbridge can benefit the lives of the more than 15,000 people, easing access to hiking, biking — and the health benefits that go along with getting outdoors.
The same can be said for dogs too — all of whom deserve equal access to the expansive off-leash area at Rimrock Trailhead.
For clarity, BPRD has never proposed any off-leash restrictions as a part of the proposed footbridge project. Indeed, supporting the bridge — and caring for this area properly — is the best way to ensure off-leash access into the long term.
Support Connect Bend and ensure a future resource for your dog.
Trails: more hiking, more biking, and a great Deschutes River Trail
Bend voters approved the footbridge for another reason. It all but completes a Deschutes River Trail from Tumalo State Park all the way to Sunriver.
The footbridge will open new trails for hikers and new routes for runners. It will allow bikers to reach National Forest Trails and Phil’s Trailhead more easily.
It’s more of what makes Bend great.