Bend MPO Policy Board Meeting 1/16/2026 12:00 PM

The Bend MPO Policy Board meeting held on January 16, 2026, focused extensively on transportation infrastructure projects and funding allocations within the Bend, Oregon area. Key procurement-related discussions included updates on discretionary fund projects such as bike and pedestrian improvements, street preservation programs with nearly $1.9 million allocated, and corridor planning studies. The board reviewed project statuses involving multiple agencies including the City of Bend, Bend Schools, Rooted Homes, and Cascades East Transit. Specific contract-related details included the use of COVID and state highway funds for bus stop improvements, new signage, benches, and shelters, with a transition to GO bond funds for more substantial infrastructure needs. The board also discussed the alignment and funding priorities for a shared-use path near High Desert Middle School, deferring final decisions pending further coordination and cost estimates. Additionally, ODOT presented a 2024 statewide congestion overview highlighting causes of congestion, lane miles, and vehicle miles traveled, with discussions on signal operations improvements and funding allocations between state, county, and city systems. No formal votes on new contracts were recorded, but motions to approve previous meeting minutes and meeting schedules were passed. The meeting emphasized ongoing capital improvement projects, budget considerations, and coordination among multiple transportation stakeholders.