River recreation detours during Colorado bridge closure

River recreation detours will be in place on the Deschutes River under the Colorado Avenue Bridge effectiveMonday, Bend officials said.

People boating or floating must portage around the bridge, exiting just prior to the orange boom extending across the river. Unless posted otherwise, the Bend Whitewater Park will remain accessible from McKay Park beach or Miller’s Landing Park.

Throughout the fall there will be intermittent river and trail access closures in the area during construction of the City’s Colorado Sewer Pump Station and sewer line, and the Bend Park and Recreation District’s Deschutes River Trail undercrossing and additional work at the whitewater park.

Boaters, floaters and pedestrians are encouraged to go to the City of Bend website for information on the sewer project (www.bendoregon.gov/colorado) or the Bend Park and Recreation District website for information on Bend Whitewater Park access or the Deschutes River Trail undercrossing project (www.bendparksandrec.org/Colorado-Bridge). A reminder that the Colorado Avenue Bridge will be closed to all vehicle trafficOctober 5throughNovember 17.

The Colorado Sewer Pump Station project will upgrade and replace the undersized and deficient Shevlin station in McKay Park. The improved pumping facility will relieve critical sewer capacity issues on Bend’s westside.