BMPO Policy Board Meeting - 5/15/2026, 12:00pm

The Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Policy Board convened on May 15, 2026, to discuss several transportation and safety-related agenda items. Key procurement and funding discussions included approval of an amendment to the 2024-2027 Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program (MTIP) to phase the construction of the US 97 multi-use Lava Trail project, with funding adjustments to accommodate coordination with Bend Parks and Recreation. The board also reviewed the Deschutes County Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) update, which prioritizes safety improvement projects and systemic safety measures to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes, supported by federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant funding. Additionally, the board approved a safety funding support letter advocating for bike and pedestrian safety funding along the US 97 corridor. Updates on transit funding, including the impact of recent state legislation allowing direct funding to qualified entities and ongoing transit service improvements, were provided. The City of Bend plans to apply for federal SS4A grants to purchase speed and volume recording cameras, with the MPO board expressing support. The meeting included motions passed unanimously for committee member reappointments and MTIP amendments, reflecting active regional collaboration on transportation safety and infrastructure projects.