Central Oregon LandWatch announced on Apr. 23 that recent improvements to bike infrastructure around Bend have made transportation safer, more accessible, and enjoyable for community members.
The organization said the investments in bikeways are intended to address concerns about safety and encourage more people to consider biking as a viable mode of transportation. Many residents have expressed reluctance to bike due to safety concerns, which LandWatch said is a common sentiment heard at public forums.
According to Central Oregon LandWatch, protected bike lanes attract nearly twice as many riders as standard lanes and over four times as many as streets without any bike facilities. The group also noted that these protected facilities can significantly reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities. They emphasized that building safer places for riding results in fewer injuries and encourages more people to use bicycles.
LandWatch acknowledged some public skepticism about investing in bike lanes due to perceptions of low usage but pointed out that complete and connected systems take time before reaching full potential. The organization advocated for a comprehensive approach rather than piecemeal development when expanding the network.
Each new project offers an opportunity for improvement. For example, on Franklin Avenue, the absence of trees and green space has been identified as a design issue affecting comfort during hot weather—a factor LandWatch considers important for creating effective infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Central Oregon LandWatch encouraged community members who may not be regular cyclists to try using the new facilities this spring. They suggested starting with short trips or participating in local social rides organized by advocacy groups such as Bend Bikes. “You don’t need to bike everywhere,” the group said, emphasizing that increased participation will make future investments even more valuable.
