Curb ramp installations continue across Bend

The city of Bend continues to update, alter and create curb ramps across town. In 2017, 489 were completed.

The Streets and Operations Department altered or constructed 177 ramps as part of street preservation work. Private developments installed 201 ramps, while capital improvement projects added 111.

Chuck Swann, operations manager for the city agency, said Wednesday that improving accessibility is an ongoing process.

“Basically, when we have to repave a road, we’re going to touch that ADA ramp and we’re going to update it if it’s not compliant (with the American Disabilities Act),” he said.

Since 2012, the Streets and Operations Department has constructed 1,200 ramps. More than 400 more are planned to be installed in 2019.

But with more people moving to the area, changing rules and new developments, the projects just keep coming.

The cost of installing a curb ramp is between $1,700 and $2,200. Depending on the location, type of ramp and the weather, it can take 7 to 11 days to construct.

But despite the curb ramps, safety can still be hard to come by for people navigating around in a wheel chair.

Jordan Ohlde is lucky to be alive after a recent, frightening incident that didn’t involve a curb ramp, but instead involved a street crossing — and the importance of being visible.

“I was on 8th (Street) and Greenwood (Avenue) and a car hit me, and I fell out of my chair and hit my head on the concrete, got hit by a car,” Ohlde said. “I just want to let people know around me that you need to be more visible, so people even at night can see you.”

The accident happened at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan 16. Ohlde suffered a fractured nose and bumps and bruises.

The incident was reported to the police, and Ohlde said he’s waiting to meet with the district attorney.

As one might expect, Ohlde said he’s just a bit more uncomfortable going around town in his wheelchair than he used to be.

But despite the collision, Ohlde said he’s grateful for the city’s efforts to improve access for disabled residents.

“I believe that the city of Bend is really trying to do the best they can with the money they currently have,” he said. “I’m a voting citizen of Deschutes County, and I just wanted to make my story known that not everybody can walk and get out the way.”

Ohlde is on several committees working to improve accessibility around town. He said there are still a few spots he would change, but he thinks city has come a long ways in the 33 years he’s lived here.