Planning commission approves Columbia Park river access, sets conditions and permit requirements

The Bend Planning Commission on June 9 approved a waterway overlay zone application to create a formal river access and restoration project at Columbia Park, downstream of the Gilchrist Footbridge, subject to six conditions and submission of required state and federal permits.

City staff told commissioners the project, led by the Bend Park & Recreation District, would provide a durable, ADA-accessible entry to the Deschutes River, stabilize and restore about 200 linear feet of riverbank and close nearby user-created access points. Aaron Hudson, a city planner, summarized the staff recommendation: "We recommend approval subject to six conditions," including proof of Army Corps of Engineers and Department of State Lands permits, a city grading permit and documentation of easements or agreements for an existing stormwater pipe.

The commission's vote follows a detailed staff and applicant presentation and nearly two hours of public testimony that split neighborhood views. Proponents, including nearby homeowners and local recreation groups, said a designed access point would reduce random trampling of riparian vegetation, provide safer egress for river users and keep local trips within the neighborhood. Opponents, primarily Riverfront Street residents, warned that reopening access could increase noise,…