Bend Central District Initiative

The Bend Central District Initiative (BCDI) is a project of Central Oregon LandWatch (COLW) to build broad and effective support for policies and programs that promote an inclusive, dense, and mixed-use neighborhood in the Bend Central District. The Initiative works to also ensure the neighborhood is well-served by safe and environmentally friendly mobility options. Priority populations for research were the residents of the BCD and adjacent neighborhoods (Orchard & Larkspur Neighborhood Associations), business owners, and employees of the Bend Central District, with an emphasis on the Latinx community. In phase one, Pueblo Planning worked with COLW and the BCDI visionary board members to develop a community engagement plan and interactive tools. Pueblo Planning utilized pop-up engagement activities throughout BCD to co-develop the neighborhood’s identity with community members. Additionally, we engaged residents in storytelling sessions and curated their stories to help shift policies. This community’s participation was used to shape the community guidelines for the City and developers and can be referenced for any future development.