10/29/09 Bend

By Doug Johnson

Improvements are on the way for two of the most popular recreation areas in Central Oregon. The Bend Park and Recreation District is looking at its options to remove the Colorado Dam in Bend. And the Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is exploring options to expand to the east, building new chairs lifts, a new lodge, and parking spaces. Many seem to like the ideas.

"I think it's a step in the right direction for Mt. Bachelor," says Joe Bentley, who has had a season pass for the last several years.

"Oh man, I think this is way over due," says Jayson Bowerman about the Colorado Dam.

Both the resort and Park and Rec. District reveled their development plans, and are asking for public comment. The idea behind the redesign of the dam is to eliminate the need for river travelers to get out there.

"You know of all the different features around town that have been created by man, this is probably the most dangerous one," says Bowerman.

Of the several design options, the one recommended by the consulting firm features a flat water way for tubers and a white water route for kayakers. The Mt. Bachelor master development plan calls for a new lodge, beginner lift and parking area in the Sunrise Area, a new lift going to the east side of the mountain, and opening up the resort to mountain bikers during the summer. There's also plans for a snow play area and a new kids center.

"The expansion to the east and mountain biking in the summer, I think is really going to round out their offering," says Paul Richards, who has had a season pass for the last few years.

Thursday night, the public had a chance to comment on both plans during two open houses in Bend. The parks district had people fill in cards.

"Terrific to see a plan that has come together so well and includes white water features," says Doug Knight, Vice President for Bend Paddle Trail Alliance.

"It's really just a one time expense to build it and then it just sits there and people come and use it for years and years and years," says Brad Goettemoeller, who often floats the river.

Mt. Bachelor, on the other hand, asked people to speak for the record.

"I like the idea of a brand new lift and appreciate them taking the time to do this with the general public," says Bentley.

"I think it's going to be recognized by the community and they're going to have a positive response to it," says Richards.