Bend Senior Center May Be Expanded

The Bend Senior Center is looking to expand. Over the last four months, a citizens committee has met to analyze the needs of the center including the spaces and how to accommodate future growth.

Officials say they’ve already outgrown the space. The current building is about 14,000 square feet, and of that only 8,000 can be served for programs.

Some of their proposed ideas include multi-purpose stations like an arts and crafts studio room, expanding the fitness room and adding a library or some other warm gathering space.

On Tuesday night, the Bend Parks and Rec Board heard the recommendations for the first time.

“It’s such an exciting time right now,” said Donna Shewey, Bend Senior Center manager. “With the needs assessment finishing their work and this study, it gives us the opportunity to look at our space and try to increase space to better serve the older population in Bend, and expand the programs within the existing facility that we already have.”

As for when, if any of the changes could occur, officials say they are about six months to a year out. The next step will be working with an architect and having them look at existing spaces and the costs of various options.