Harper Bridge

On March 13, a majority of the Board of Commissioners voted to give Road Department staff approval to move forward with implementing parking improvements on Spring River Road.

The project will involve widening the road to create more space so that cars can safely park without occupying the adjacent travel lanes. It will also provide an additional buffer for pedestrians by placing a bike lane in between parking spaces and travel lanes. We expect construction to begin in May and be finished in early July.

Areas outside of designated parking areas will be posted ‘No Parking,’ thereby limiting the number of parties that can access the river. The project will include a loading zone, and an information kiosk will direct the public to alternative parking areas. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office will assist in monitoring illegal parking and general public safety.

Addressing congestion, parking, and pedestrian safety at Harper Bridge is a complex issue that involves multiple partners. Although we plan to continue to evaluate other long-term options, the commissioners feel that improving parking at the site before the busy summer season begins will help to make things safer in the near-term.

If you would like to receive project updates, please visit http://bit.ly/HarperBridgeUpdates.