Bridge Creek Pipeline Project Update

Bridge Creek Pipeline Project Moves Ahead

The Bridge Creek pipeline replacement project is ready to take another step forward. The US Forest Service has issued a final environmental assessment and draft Decision Notice to issue a Special Use Permit for construction and operation of the Bridge Creek Replacement pipeline. The environmental assessment and USFS permit decision have determined the project’s environmental benefits outweigh any impacts.

“The decision to approve occupancy and use of NFS (National Forest) lands for this project is the prudent choice that best protects the environment and the public interest,” the draft decision concludes.

Bend submitted an updated proposal for the project last fall, limiting the water withdrawal to a maximum of 18.2 cfs (cubic feet per second) – which is the current limit, and less than the City’s water rights allow. Design features in the proposed new pipeline and diversion structure also enable the City to control water withdrawal. This means when City water demand is less than 18.2 cfs, as it often is now, more water will remain in Tumalo Creek.

With this notice from the US Forest Service, the City of Bend staff have resumed preparations to begin construction of the Bridge Creek pipeline this fall.

Self-Serve Drinking Water Station Debuts at Bend’s Fall Festival!

The City of Bend is hosting a drinking water station at the 2013 Bend Fall Festival. Festival participants can fill up their drinking water bottles or use a recyclable cup for refreshing water from Bend’s Bridge Creek water source. Come see us at the north-west corner of NW Minnesota Ave and NW Bond Street Friday, October 4 through Sunday, October 6.

Heidi Lansdowne
City of Bend Project Manager