Central Oregon’s highways could see little or no paving after 2027, according to ODOT’s annual road condition report

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

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. 

Coming soon to downtown Bend: Spiceland, with authentic Indian cuisine

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

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.

‘Model for the future’: Bend-Redmond Habitat seeks applicants, invites public to tour unique Net Zero home

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity invites the public to tour a one-of-a-kind home at 1475 SE Wilson Avenue, designed specifically for middle-income buyers who have scarce options in Bend’s housing market.

The first open house took place Wednesday and another is set for Saturday from noon to 2 p.m.

The home, built in partnership with Hiatus Homes, is the first in Bend to blend Net Zero energy efficiency, Universal Design, and middle-income affordability, serving families earning 80–120% of the Area Median Income (AMI), roughly $82,000–$135,000 for a household of four.

“This is more than a home—it’s a model for the future,” said Carly Colgan, CEO of Bend-Redmond Habitat. “It proves we can create housing that’s attainable, sustainable, and inclusive without compromise.”

About the Home:

2 bed / 2 bath, 1346 sq. ft.

Attached garage

No down payment required

Built to Net Zero standards — dramatically reducing utility bills

Universal Design ensures lifelong accessibility, regardless of age or ability

Loan prequalification needed: $315,000+

Anticipated home sale by June 2025

The project is made possible through funding from the City of Bend’s Middle Income Pilot Program, Deschutes County HOME Funds, and the Bend Chamber’s Workforce Housing Revolving Loan Fund.

Why It Matters: In a city where the median home price hovers around $750,000, the local workforce struggles to remain in the community they serve. With 95% of Central Oregon employers citing housing as a barrier to hiring, this home is part of a vital shift toward practical, long-term solutions.

“We’re setting a precedent,” said Colgan. “This home is just the beginning — it’s a catalyst for more affordable, accessible homes across Central Oregon .”

How to Apply:

Prospective buyers can apply through Habitat’s website at bendredmondhabitat.org/Wilson-Ave. The application deadline is Monday, April 21.

For more information, visit bendredmondhabitat.org or call (541) 385-5387.

Murder trial of Bend man accused of fatally assaulting his mother delayed until July

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The murder trial of a Bend man accused of fatally assaulting his mother just over a year ago has been delayed for three months, until July, at his attorney’s request.

Deschutes County Circuit Judge Alycia Herriott on Wednesday set a July 22 trial date for Joshua Lawrence Smith, 41, on a second-degree murder charge in the March 20, 2024 killing of Janice Marie Smith, 59, at the Legacy Landing Apartments in northeast Bend.

A scheduled April 22 jury trial was canceled after defense attorney Raun Atkinson filed a motion saying they needed more time to prepare for trial and review recently provided evidence in the case.

That includes nearly a year’s worth of jail correspondence by Smith, who appeared by video at Wednesday’s hearing and remains held without bail. Atkinson also noted his own health issues and co-counsel’s recent family leave.

District Attorney Steve Gunnels told KTVZ News last year that Smith’s mother died of blunt force trauma after a “violent physical interaction” between the mother and son.  Smith pleaded not guilty to the charge last August.

Herriott also set a one-day hearing on pre-trial motions for May 23 and a trial readiness hearing for July 15.

‘Kitten Shower’ planned Saturday at Humane Society of Central Oregon

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Kade Linville

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Humane Society of Central Oregon is preparing for the upcoming adoption season with a brand new Kitten Shower on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The shelter will be collecting donations of kitten essentials like non-clump clay litters and wet and dry kitten food.

The donation drive event is free to attend and will also include opportunities to learn more about cat adoption. Plus there will be fun activities and refreshments.

To learn more about the event and what items you can donate, check our KTVZ Events Calendar item.

‘We are one community’: Latino Community Association leader speaks about Latino Fest cancellation

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video, comments by Latino Community Association executive director)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Latino Community Association announced Monday that it is canceling this fall’s Central Oregon Latino Fest in Madras over safety fears due to recent immigration enforcement actions.

Here’s the group’s full statement:

LCA will cancel its September Latino Fest in Madras

Dear Central Oregon Community,

The Latino Community Association will cancel its signature public event, Central Oregon Latino Fest, held every September in Madras, because it cannot guarantee the safety of participants. 

“There is heightened fear among immigrant community members due to recent immigration enforcement actions, anti-immigrant rhetoric, or rumors of raids or targeting,” said Catalina Sánchez Frank, LCA’s Executive Director. Just showing up at this event could endanger families because ICE officers can approach anyone in a public space.

Trusted organizations that usually participate in Latino Fest are hesitating or have withdrawn due to safety concerns, Sánchez Frank noted. Families and individuals who normally attend may stay home, resulting in low turnout.

“The motive (of the festival) is to bring joy to the people,” said Ana Bueno, Client Services Manager in Madras, who heads the event organizing committee. “If we are living in fear and uncertainty, we can’t enjoy the event,” said Bueno, who expressed her disappointment. 

“We believe in creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces,” Sánchez Frank said. “If we cannot guarantee that at this time, it is more ethical to pause and revisit when the environment is more supportive.”

“We deeply appreciate all the support, effort, and contributions of our volunteers and participants; Their work has made this event possible since 2018. We will return stronger than ever.”

Sánchez Frank told KTVZ News Tuesday that about 3,000 people attend the annual celebration, coming from as far as Seattle. She says it’s one of, if not the biggest Latino gathering in the area.

The event doesn’t raise any funds for the group, but it’s a popular venue for vendors, who will be missing out.

In an interview, Sánchez Frank said this is not just an issue that impacts Latinos, but the entire Central Oregon Community.

“We are one community,” she said “We are our neighbors. We work for the services that you use every day. We go to school. Our kids go to school with your kids. So we are one community. Be kind to your neighbor. Understand that we’re going through difficult times right now.”

‘High-volume’ Central Oregon drug trafficker sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

EUGENE, Ore. (KTVZ) — A known, high-volume Central Oregon drug trafficker was sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison Wednesday following a multi-agency investigation led by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, federal prosecutors said.

Ricky Fontaine, 32, of Bend, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.

“This case is the result of excellent collaboration among the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit, the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon,” said William M. Narus, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “We thank the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office for partnering with us to prosecute this case in federal court.”

According to court documents, on April 1, 2023, after obtaining information that Fontaine was actively selling drugs—including fentanyl—in Deschutes County, detectives from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Fontaine.

Fontaine, who at the time of the stop had an unrelated active felony arrest warrant, attempted to walk away from the traffic stop on foot but was quickly apprehended by the detectives.

The detectives searched Fontaine’s vehicle and found more than 1,000 grams of fentanyl, a .22 caliber handgun, scales and drug packaging materials. The detectives also found several photographs of Fontaine posing with large quantities of packaged fentanyl pills.

A few hours later, the detectives executed a second search warrant on Fontaine’s residence and found additional fentanyl pills, scales and packaging materials.

KTVZ News reported at the time that three people were arrested and about 13,000 counterfeit Oxycodone fentanyl pills were seized in a series of 2023 raids around the county, concluding a lengthy investigation by the sheriff’s office Street Crimes Unit into drug trafficking from a supplier in Mexico.

Court documents show four local charges, including felon in possession of a firearm, were dismissed later that year after Fontaine was indicted by a federal grand jury

On January 18, 2024, Fontaine was charged by superseding indictment with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On December 4, 2024, he pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

The case was investigated by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit with assistance from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE) and the Redmond Police Department. It was prosecuted by Andrew R. Doyle, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 3-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Live phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Deschutes National Forest outlines spring prescribed burning plans across nearly 9,000 acres

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes National Forest announced Wednesday that firefighters plan to start spring prescribed burning season as early as mid-April, if conditions become favorable.

The forest may conduct up to an estimated 8,860 acres of prescribed burning, including about 7,000 acres on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, 360 acres on the Crescent Ranger District and 1,500 acres on the Sisters Ranger District.

Prescribed burns are slated for the following areas:

Bend – west of Bend adjacent to Cascade Lakes Highway, Forest Service Road (FSR) 41, Skyliners Road, Phils Trailhead area, and the Deschutes River, and southeast of Bend near the junction of FSR 18 and FSR 25.

Camp Sherman – along FSR 14 south of Camp Sherman, along FSR 800 south of the Camp Sherman Store, and west of Camp Sherman along FSR 1216.

Crescent –southeast of Crescent and east of Highway 97 off FSR 9760 near Boundary Springs Campground, south of Crescent and one mile north of the junction of Highway 97 and Highway 58, and south of the Two Rivers subdivision and west of Highway 97 off FSR 5835.

La Pine – northeast of La Pine on the north and south sides of Paulina Lake Road (FSR 21), and southeast of La Pine near Finley Butte.

Sisters – south and west of Sisters and both sides of Highway 20 near the Indian Ford Campground area.

Sunriver – east of Sunriver and Lava Butte on the east side of Highway 97.

Please see maps for more information on specific locations.

Firefighters implement understory prescribed burning to reduce wildfire risk to communities. Prescribed burning reintroduces and maintains fire within our fire-dependent ecosystem by removing concentrations of vegetation and restoring forest health while increasing public and firefighter safety. Once firefighters ignite prescribed burns, they monitor and patrol the units until they declare the burn out.

Prescribed burns, which are primarily conducted in spring and fall, are carefully planned and implemented under specific conditions of temperature, wind, humidity, and vegetation moisture. Firefighters work with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Department of Forestry smoke forecasters to identify conditions that will minimize smoke impacts on people and communities.

While prescribed fire managers take significant preventive measures, it’s likely that communities may experience some smoke during or immediately after a prescribed burn. Most smoke impacts occur during the night and early morning hours.

Public Health officials from Deschutes, Jefferson, and Klamath counties encourage community members to prepare for smoke ahead of the Spring Prescribed Burn Season. For tips on how to get “Smoke Ready,” visit the Deschutes County website.

For more information on prescribed burning and smoke preparedness in Central Oregon, visit centraloregonfire.org/ and for information specific to the Deschutes National Forest visit www.fs.usda.gov/deschutes. Visit centraloregonfire.org/prescribed-fire-smoke-plans/ to view an interactive map with planned burn locations. Text “COFIRE” to 888-777 to receive prescribed burn and wildfire text alerts. Follow along on X/Twitter @CentralORFire.

13-year-old snowboarder crashes into a tree, dies at Mt. Bachelor

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding new video, resort statement: second fatality in less than a month)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A 13-year-old boy from Anacortes, Washington, died Wednesday morning after crashing into a tree while snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp said.

Sheriff’s deputies, along with Bend Fire and Rescue and an AirLink helicopter, responded around 11:16 a.m. after the boy was reported missing to Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol. Ski Patrol members later found him unresponsive in a wooded area near the Sunrise chairlift, the sheriff said.

Ski Patrol immediately began lifesaving efforts and transported him to the resort’s medical facility. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, the boy died from his injuries.

While no witnesses to the incident have been identified, van der Kamp said investigators believe he struck a tree while snowboarding through a treed area about 400 meters uphill from Sunrise Lodge. He was wearing a helmet at the time.

Van der Kamp confirmed to KTVZ News that the boy was snowboarding with a large group of family down Dilly Dally Alley. When the boy did not reach the bottom, his family reported him missing.

“This is a devastating loss for our community, a family, and first responders,” Sheriff van der Kamp said. “Our hearts go out to the boy’s family, friends, first responders, and everyone affected by this tragedy today. I am incredibly grateful to the ski patrol and emergency personnel who responded with urgency and compassion.”

The boy’s identity is not being released out of respect for his family and the ongoing investigation.

Van der Kamp said the Sheriff’s Office appreciates the support and efforts of Deschutes County 911, Bend Fire & Rescue, AirLink Critical Care Transport, Central Oregon Public Safety Chaplaincy, Mt. Bachelor Resort staff, and Summit Medical Group’s Urgent Care Clinic at Mt. Bachelor.

It’s the second fatal accident at the popular ski and snowboard resort in less than a month. Skier Benjamin Shelkey, 34, of Seattle, died on March 17 after falling into a deep tree well.

Mt. Bachelor provided this statement to KTVZ News:

“Earlier today, Mt. Bachelor Patrol received a report of a missing guest and began a search of the mountain. The guest was found unresponsive by members of our Patrol team who began life-saving measures and transported the individual to the base area and into the care of Bend Fire. At approximately 12:05 p.m., Bend Fire pronounced the guest deceased.

“On behalf of our entire team at Mt. Bachelor, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time. As always, we are grateful to our teams and Bend’s first responders for their work today,” the resort said.

This year’s list of Central Oregon’s largest employers out; St. Charles sees 8% job growth, BASX 60%

KTVZ on April 11, 2025

Barney Lerten

Bend, Ore. – April 9, 2025 – Economic Development for Central Oregon announced Wednesday the 2025 Central Oregon Largest Employers List, including breakouts of the top employers in each Central Oregon community.

The data, collected by EDCO annually for the past 24 years, is the most comprehensive major employer list in Central Oregon. EDCO’s regional list features the largest private employers, including for-profit and non-profit organizations, while community-level lists include public employers.

This year, the top 50 private companies collectively employ 23,764 Central Oregonians, or roughly 21.4% of the region’s February 2025 annual average total non-farm employment of 111,110. St. Charles Health System tops the list again, employing 5,188 people regionwide, an 8.29% increase since last year at the same time.

The top five private traded-sector businesses, those that primarily sell their goods or services outside the local market and bring revenue into the region from national or international markets, include:

Bright Wood Corporation (Regional, OR) – The largest independent manufacturer of window and patio door components and engineered dimension lumber in the U.S. The company was founded in Madras, Oregon, in 1960.

BASX Solutions (Redmond, OR) – An industry leader in manufacturing high-efficiency data center cooling solutions, cleanroom systems, custom HVAC systems, and modular solutions. The company recently completed a 36,000-square-foot weld shop in Redmond, Oregon.

Les Schwab Headquarters & Tire Centers (Regional, OR) – Founded in 1952 with a single store in Prineville, Les Schwab Tire Centers now employs over 7,000 people across the nation.

Epic Aircraft, LLC (Bend, OR) – Founded in 2004, Epic Aircraft is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance, all-composite, six-seat single-engine turboprop aircraft. Their flagship model, the Epic E1000, is known for its speed, range, payload, and luxurious features, catering primarily to business and private aviation markets.

Lonza (Bend, OR) – A leading global provider of integrated healthcare solutions ranging from early-phase development to custom development and manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Founded as Bend Research in 1975, they have evaluated or developed thousands of compounds.

BASX Solutions experienced the most significant increase in new jobs among the top traded-sector businesses, adding 399 positions, a 60.36% rise compared to last year.

“Traded-sector businesses are the backbone of Central Oregon’s economy, driving resilience and enriching our communities. At EDCO, we are proud to support these companies as they navigate challenges in workforce development, market research and access to resources. Working closely with over 400 businesses annually, we take great pride in seeing them thrive, create valuable job opportunities and increase the quality of life for Central Oregonians,” said Jon Stark, CEO of EDCO.

When companies consider moving to or expanding within Central Oregon, they often seek insights from EDCO regarding the local business landscape.

One resource provided is valuable information about employers across various sectors, including high technology, advanced manufacturing, and scientific industries, as well as non-traded sector industries, which include retail, education, healthcare, hospitality, and construction.

EDCO offers a range of services to support business growth, including assistance with relocation, access to incentives and financing options, entrepreneurial support, and connections to essential resources and mentorship opportunities.

To view the lists in their entirety, click on the link below:

https://www.edcoinfo.com/about-the-area/major-employers

Data for the lists is self-reported and not audited and should only be used as an informational guideline. Businesses are asked to provide the total number of employees, not full-time equivalency, during their most recent pay period or, for companies with seasonal patterns of employment, their seasonal high. Numbers only include employees working in Central Oregon and contain contractors or interns if they are full-time and long-term. Some businesses chose not to participate in these lists and are therefore excluded.  

About Economic Development for Central Oregon

EDCO is a non-profit corporation supported by private and public members and stakeholders, whose mission is to create middle-class jobs in Central Oregon by: recruiting new employers to move to the region; helping entrepreneurs start new, scalable businesses; and working with businesses that are already here to grow their operations. For more information, visit www.edcoinfo.com.