Construction work accelerated to accommodate river user needs.
The Bend Park and Recreation District is improving the portage path at McKay Park and the Bend Whitewater Park. The work began the evening of Friday, July 8.
River users now will be able to exit the river prior to the Colorado Ave. bridge and after a short walk around the bridge to Shevlin Hixon Rd. re-enter McKay Park. The more direct portage path will create distance between river users and sewer and park construction projects, and make for more “feet friendly” surfaces.
The District worked with Empire Development to accelerate work at McKay Park to accommodate river users and improve the portage path experience.
“It’s a busy time for river recreation and we worked quickly to create a safer, more direct portage path,” said Brian Hudspeth, development manager, Bend Park and Recreation District. “Signage is directing river users and we appreciate adherence to the pathways only and away from the construction zones and riparian areas along the bank.”
The surfaces of the portage path are primarily concrete and trail surface; however, footwear that secures to feet is still recommended.
