Category: ktvz-local-news

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend Park and Recreation District is working on a nearly $3 million improvement project at Sawyer Park and will share project information, including plans to mitigate potential impacts to cultural and historic resources at the site, at a Tuesday, April 22 open house from 5-7 p.m. at the park district offices, 799 SW Columbia Street.

Sawyer is one of Bend’s oldest and most beloved parks. Decades of use and increased visitors to the park each year have created the need for an improved entrance and parking lot. The existing amenities can no longer provide the functions and space needed for the park, the district says.

The project plans include relocating the parking area closer to O.B. Riley Road, adding accessible parking, habitat restoration, improving trail accessibility and the addition of a permanent restroom, picnic shelter and river overlook.

The project was awarded over $1 million from a Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant. As part of the grant program, there was a review of potential impacts the project may have on cultural and historic resources on the site. This project was determined to have an adverse effect on some of those resources.

“We worked with the National Park Service, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Oregon State Historic Preservation Office to create a plan to mitigate the impact of the adverse effects, and I will share information about that plan at the open house,” said Bronwen Mastro, BPR’sD landscape architect and project manager.

The meeting is open-house style and there will not be a formal presentation. Community members are encouraged to drop in at their convenience, if they would like to learn more.

The project is estimated to be completed in the summer of 2026. Learn more at the project webpage.

Jillian Fortner

(Update: Adding video, adding comments from grant recipient, Visit Central Oregon)

ANTELOPE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Antelope, located in North-Central Oregon, is one of Oregon’s smallest communities. Resident Brandee McNamee says tourism is key to its economic growth.

“When you have a small community of only 37 people, the entire tax base of this whole town only brings in a little over $6,000.” McNamee said Wednesday.

McNamee founded the Antelope 3 LLC project, aimed at creating a safe and inclusive stop for travelers passing through town.

This project was selected as one of the seven recipients of the Central Oregon Future Fund. The grant program will award a total of $280,000 to seven tourism-related projects this year.

Visit Central Oregon started the program a few years ago.

“We’re able to leverage local roads and lodging tax dollars to fund projects that go back to the community in a way that benefits residents and that benefits visitors,” said Visit Central Oregon President and CEO Scott Larson.

The grant money will fund the final phase of Antelope 3, adding four toilets, two showers and one outdoor shower in the Antelope Pavilion.

McNamee says the area originally offered only dry camping, but as more cyclists began passing through, she realized the facility needed an upgrade.

“Well, they’re not going to want to do RV pads, right? They want a short-term stay overnight,” McNamee said.

Visitation to Antelope has also grown since the area was designated as an International Dark Sky Community.

“I received a plethora of phone calls from folks that wanted to book, and I had to turn them away because I was like, ‘Sorry, we don’t have the amenities,'” McNamee said.

McNamee hopes improved amenities will attract more visitors, and maybe create some new jobs.

“Right now, Antelope doesn’t have one 40-hour a week full-time job,” he said. “So think if we create two jobs from this whole project, that’s a 200% increase in job growth.

“Without outside funding, such as tourism, there is no economically sustainable business model that you’re going to be able to do in a small town like this without it.”

The 2025 Central Oregon Future Fund Grantees include:

Antelope 3, LLC – Antelope Pavilion, Final Phase: The Antelope Pavilion project will provide a safe and inclusive “stopping place” for travelers looking to use restrooms, refill on water, and relax while on their rural travels, especially for Antelope Dark Skies.

“The Future Fund strengthens rural communities like Antelope by supporting tourism and local businesses, helping build a more sustainable local economy,” said Brandie McNamee, founder of Antelope Market and RV Park.

“Without tourism, a small town like Antelope (population 37) has very little to leverage. Repurposing lodging tax revenue allows towns like ours to leverage even more: Antelope’s total tax base is just $6,038 in 2024, but if the Antelope Cabins generate $150,000 annually, a 5% lodging tax would bring in $7,500—more than our entire current tax base. It’s a way to recycle dollars today to grow even more tomorrow.”

Dirty Freehub – High Desert Gravel Guide: The High Desert Gravel Adventure Guide is a pocket-sized book featuring the best gravel cycling routes in Central Oregon. Featuring curated rides, local history, art, and cultural insights, it connects cyclists to the land and its communities.

“The High Desert Gravel Adventure Guide project is more than a collection of great bike rides—it’s a bridge between visitors and the communities of Central Oregon,” said Kevin English, Director of Content & Technologies for Dirty Freehub, which is planning to publish its High Desert Gravel Guide in spring 2026.

“Thanks to support from the Visit Central Oregon Future Fund grant, we are creating a sustainable tourism asset that showcases our region’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage and helps generate long-term economic benefits for rural towns like Maupin, Warm Springs, and Prineville. Visitors will connect with the land, spend where they ride, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the area’s stories and stewardship values.”

Explore Prineville – Golf “Fore” All: The Adaptive Golf Project: This will provide a Vertacat, an all-terrain adaptive golf cart, that Prineville’s local golf courses could provide for golfers—including both visitors to our community and locals—at no cost.

“We’re incredibly thankful to Visit Central Oregon’s Future Fund for helping us enhance accessibility and enjoyment at our local golf facilities,” said Kim Molnar, Director of Tourism at Explore Prineville. “Adding a stand-up golf cart will allow more people — including aging golfers and those with mobility challenges — to stay active and enjoy the game they love. It’s a fantastic example of how repurposed revenue from visitors can directly benefit both our community and our guests, making Prineville’s recreation offerings more inclusive and forward-thinking.”

Deschutes River Alliance – Troutfest 2025-Access Adventure Promotion: DRA will leverage Troutfest ‘25 to drive diverse and equitable tourism. This will include promotion beyond typical demographics, diverse instructors, and scholarships.

High Desert Museum – Our Place, Our Cultures: The High Desert Museum will launch a series of new exhibitions and programs that explore the unique landscapes of the High Desert through cultural, artistic, and scientific perspectives, driving broad audiences to Central Oregon.

Oregon Adaptive Sports – Access, Elevated: “Access, Elevated” develops opportunities for adaptive outdoor recreation in Central Oregon by extending ski seasons, creating fall biking programs, and launching an adaptive paddling program.

Tower Theatre Foundation – Enhanced ADA Accessibility at Tower Theatre: The Tower Theatre will replace a 20-year-old wheelchair lift for access to the stage from the auditorium and install a one-push automatic door at the ADA entrance on Wall Street, continuing the theatre’s long-standing commitment to accessibility.

Barney Lerten

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ)  — The Prineville Crook County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center is excited to unveil a stunning remodel of its main office in Prineville.

Funded through the Travel Oregon Competitive Grants Program, the remodel enhances the facility to enhance the Chamber’s ability to serve residents, visitors, and tourists exploring the area.

The project focused on key upgrades to improve the Visitor Center’s functionality, including a handicap-accessible door opener, a new ADA-compliant front desk, lobby seating, and wayfinding signage. The remodel also features a high-resolution LED sign at the front of the building, making community and tourism information easier to access for all.

“The grant we received from Travel Oregon made this project possible, and it’s incredible to see the transformation,” said Kim Molnar, Director of Tourism for Explore Prineville. “This remodel reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming and accommodating space for visitors. It’s a major milestone for Prineville’s tourism efforts.”

“This project wouldn’t have been possible without the vision and dedication of our team, especially Kim and her hard work securing this competitive grant,” said Chamber President Shawn Benson. “It’s an example of what can be accomplished when prioritizing tourism and community partnerships.”

The remodel was made possible through collaboration with local experts, including Brandin Noland of Orion Subcontracting, who led the construction efforts, and Brittany Grogan of Hailis Design, whose creative vision brought the redesign to life. Current and former board members of the Visitor Center also contributed to making this project a success.

“We’re proud to share these updates with the community and look forward to welcoming more visitors to Prineville,” added Operations Manager Deb Shaw. “This facility is not just an office—it’s the first impression many people have of our area, and now it truly reflects the warmth and hospitality of Prineville.”

Barney Lerten

Announcement came on same day Latino Community Assn. canceled Central Oregon Latino Fest

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Father’s Group organization in Bend has canceled this year’s Juneteenth Celebration at Drake Park, noting “today’s increasingly political climate, with rising incidents of racial aggression and threats, particularly toward Black and Latino communities.”

“Safety must come first,” the organization said in a Facebook post, adding that the decision was made “after deep reflection, consultation and with heavy hearts.”

It was one of two Central Oregon community organizations to announce an event cancellation on Monday, citing similar safety concerns. The Latino Community Association said it has decided to cancel this fall’s Central Oregon Latino Fest in Madras.

Here’s the announcement posted late Monday by The Father’s Group on its Facebook page:

To Our Beloved Community,

After deep reflection, consultation, and with heavy hearts, we are postponing this year’s Juneteenth Celebration at Drake Park.

This decision did not come lightly.

As you know, Juneteenth is more than just a holiday for us—it’s a time to uplift our history, celebrate our resilience, and stand in joyful solidarity. But in today’s increasingly volatile political climate, with rising incidents of racial aggression and threats—particularly toward Black and Latino communities—safety must come first.

Every year, our celebration welcomes families, youth, elders, and people from all walks of life. Your safety is our top priority. As protectors and organizers, we refuse to put our community at risk. We’d rather pause now than regret later.

But make no mistake—we are not backing down. We are regrouping. And we’ll be back in 2026, stronger, safer, and bolder than ever.

In the meantime, we encourage you to support and attend the beautiful celebration being held by our friends at Central Oregon Earthseeds! They’re hosting a “Juneteenth – An Evening at the Campfire,” featuring a vibrant Black Business Market featuring a DJ and Jermaican Jerk Culture! Stay tuned for more information soon!

Let’s continue to show up, build together, and create safe spaces that center joy, culture, and connection. So make sure you mark your calendars!

Thank you for your understanding, love, and continued support. We’ll see you soon—and when we do, it’ll be unforgettable.

With love and solidarity,

The Father’s Group”

Isabella Warren

LA PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Homelessness looks different in and around all of cities across Deschutes County, officials say – especially in La Pine.

Outreach groups say they’ve long struggled to reach the homeless in the La Pine area, and as major homeless encampments in the county like along China Hat Road are closed, more homeless could be moving to the area.

The county says it’s preparing.

“What we see from our perspective is a lot of folks that are from the community,” said Colleen Thomas, supervisor of the county’s homeless outreach services. “We see a lot of generational poverty as well. If they aren’t able to access the limited resources that we do have, a lot of the folks may not be able to access some of the resources, including shelters or housing programs.”

Deschutes County says the outreach team is currently trying to prevent campers from moving farther onto Forest Service land, preventing isolation, which could pose dangers for those with mental health issues.

The homeless have been at the center of wildfire prevention in La Pine following the Darlene 3 fire, where a viral video showed a burning camp at the center of the devastating blaze. The Forest Service has not confirmed the cause of that fire.

The Problem Solvers are continuing to investigate homelessness in La Pine for a full report later this month. Please reach out with any information for this story to problemsolvers@ktvz.com.

Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video)

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon’s Department of Transportation is facing funding issues that are so bad, non-interstate routes like U.S. Highways 97, 20, and 26 could see little to no paving after 2027.

The highway system is facing ongoing challenges as the condition of many roads continues to decline, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation’s 2024 Pavement Condition Report.

The report highlights that while 87% of Oregon’s 18,000 lane miles of pavement are still in fair or better condition, the quality of roads is slipping, with the percentage of “good” pavement reaching its lowest point since 2001. 

The report points to a significant decline in the number of roads classified as in “good” condition. Over the past decade, the amount of pavement rated as good has decreased, and without adequate maintenance, many roads in fair condition are at risk of deteriorating into poor condition within the next few years, the agency says.

ODOT’s goal is to preserve the condition of Oregon’s highways through regular maintenance. As roads age, maintenance needs become more complex and costly. Timely maintenance, such as resurfacing and crack sealing, are the most effective way to prevent roads from further deterioration and to extend their service life. 

In the past 20 years, ODOT has managed to maintain a paving cycle of about 25 years. However, this is set to dramatically increase to a 500-year cycle by 2030. This will limit the ability to repair and preserve many roads, particularly non-interstate routes, which will see fewer repairs moving forward. 

“ODOT’s structural revenue issue is forcing the agency to dramatically pull back on our pavement maintenance and preservation efforts,” said Delivery and Operations Administrator Amy Ramsdale. “Without additional revenue or revenue reform, the quality of Oregon’s highways will significantly decline in just a few years.”  

Oregon lawmakers are looking at various options to shore up ODOT’s funding, though nothing is concrete as of yet. KTVZ News is tracking the developments and will keep you posted.

Other Key Findings from the Report

The number of roads in poor condition has been increasing, with more expected to deteriorate in the coming years. 

Asphalt roads typically last between 10 and 30 years, while concrete roads last 40 to 60 years, depending on weather and maintenance. 

After 2027, non-interstate routes will receive little to no paving, affecting overall road quality. 

The report emphasizes the importance of proactive maintenance to slow the deterioration of the state’s roads and prevent more costly repairs down the road. While ODOT has managed to meet key performance goals for pavement condition in the past, the growing backlog of maintenance needs and the increasing age of the state’s roads present significant challenges in maintaining these standards in the future. 

For more detailed information, visit the 2024 Pavement Condition Report on ODOT’s website.

Visit this site for more information on the structural revenue issue facing ODOT and transportation agencies across Oregon. 

Tyson Beauchemin

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A new Indian food restaurant is preparing to open its doors in downtown Bend and it’s called Spiceland. Behind a banner advertising the restaurant, the new staff is working hard to set up shop. They’re in the process of moving into the space formerly used by the Japanese fusion bar ‘Chomp Chomp’.

The owner of Spiceland has been running Indian restaurants in the Pacific Northwest for three decades and currently manages the ‘Evergreen Indian Restaurants’ in both Eugene and Corvallis.

Spiceland aims to be an affordable casual dining experience where workers and families can sit down for authentic Indian cuisine.

Speaking for the owner, consultant and barman Craig Hanson said, “We’re going to be serving authentic Northern and Southern Indian cuisine, including kathi rolls and lamb shank curry. We’re also going to have dosa, and just things that you would expect to find in an authentic Indian restaurant.”

There’s no fixed opening date for the restaurant, but its hope is to open the doors as early as next week. Spiceland will also feature a bar with craft cocktails.