The City of Bend is offering a new way to explore Newport Avenue with the Stormwater Walking Tour. An outdoor exhibit of interpretive signs will take guests on a self-paced walking tour of the historic corridor to give a glimpse into what is above and below ground. The tour highlights stormwater system features, Bend’s water history, and educates the public about important City infrastructure that is helping protect the Deschutes River and its critters.
The self-guided tour begins and ends in Pageant Park at 691 NW Drake Road, along the Deschutes River. Student groups are already taking the tour as part of the City’s youth education partnership with the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council.
“We’re thrilled to offer a tour allowing community members and visitors a special look at the Newport Avenue corridor and the Deschutes River. The tour includes information and exhibits that offer insights into the past and present, and illustrates the important role of new infrastructure in protecting the future of our beautiful river,” said Stormwater Program Manager Elisabeth Okeefe. “We encourage community members to explore what is above and below ground and find out what you can do to help keep the Deschutes River clean.”
To start the tour, go to Pageant Park. The tour map is the first stop and will guide you to the locations of all the interpretive signs. You can also download a map and get more information before you go by visiting bendoregon.gov/stormwaterwalkingtour.