Bend MPO Policy Board Meeting 3/31/2026 1:00 PM

The Bend MPO Policy Board meeting held on March 31, 2026, focused primarily on transportation planning and funding allocations within the metropolitan area. Key procurement-related discussions included updates on the Bend La Pine School's COVID Relief Program Award, with detailed cost estimates for a multi-use path construction project. The board reviewed budget allocations for fiscal years 2026-2027, including the administration of state highway funds and COVID relief funds, and discussed potential reallocation of funds for future fiscal years 2028-2030. A Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program (MTIP) amendment was approved to reallocate approximately $32,000 in federal funds within existing projects. Additionally, the board considered a letter of support for the federal Bridges and Safety Infrastructure for Community Success (BASICS) Act, which aims to increase and better target safety and bridge funding to local governments. The board passed the MTIP amendment unanimously and agreed to submit the letter of support, with one member abstaining due to agency policy. Discussions also touched on policy and funding formula changes that could impact future local transportation project funding.