Bend Has Installed New ADA Compliant Curb Ramps
The city is improving local sidewalk accessibility to meet federal guidelines for street crossings.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Special Needs
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The City of Bend has begun installing ADA compliant curb ramps to ensure all street crossings meet Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines. Staff are currently focused on addressing 35 outstanding accessibility reports submitted by residents.
Why it matters
The ongoing project aims to improve sidewalk accessibility for all members of the local community. By upgrading infrastructure, the city ensures safer and more inclusive navigation for residents throughout Bend.
Each individual curb ramp installation costs approximately $4,000. These projects are customized to match the specific slope and dimensions of existing sidewalks.
The players
City of Bend
The local municipal government responsible for managing public right-of-way infrastructure and accessibility compliance in Bend, Oregon.
The details
City crews are evaluating and repairing barriers based on a prioritization scale that considers both community impact and the severity of each report. Residents can report additional accessibility concerns directly through the city's digital infrastructure management tools.
Timeline
Ongoing: City of Bend sidewalk accessibility improvement project.
Culture Shift
This project aligns with the national trend toward ensuring that urban environments meet the Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines. Cities across the U.S. are increasingly prioritizing inclusive design as a fundamental aspect of civil infrastructure and public utility planning.
Residents can utilize the Bend Works app to flag specific sidewalk barriers in their neighborhoods for city review. This direct line of communication helps the city prioritize construction projects in areas where accessibility needs are most acute.
The takeaway
Maintaining accessible streets is a continuous municipal effort that relies on both proactive planning and public participation. Residents should regularly use official reporting tools to help city staff identify and address infrastructure barriers in their own neighborhoods.
Further reading
Learn more about local initiatives at Special Needs.
More information
Residents can submit new reports or track existing requests via the Bend Works accessibility reporting portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTVZ.
Live Poll
Do you feel your local government is adequately addressing sidewalk accessibility in your area?
