Problem Solvers: From free spaces to full lots, Bend’s growth fuels downtown parking debate

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Finding parking in downtown Bend has become such a challenge that many locals tell the Problem Solvers they’re avoiding the area altogether, and that trend is troubling for businesses already struggling to draw residents outside peak tourist season. Yet, not everyone sees parking as a long-term, sustainable solution.

Parking Headaches Drive Locals Away

Downtown Bend is busier than ever, but for longtime residents like bartender Buck Bales, the biggest change has been the vanishing of easy parking.

Bales was born and raised in Prineville and moved to Bend in the 1990s, where he's been bartending ever since. For the past two decades, he's poured drinks at the iconic D&D Bar & Grill, where he remembers a time when finding a space was simple.

“In the early ’90s, it was free parking everywhere for as long as you wanted,” Bales said. “Now, I just leave a little earlier to circle around.”

He’s noticed fewer locals stopping by, and many he talks to cite parking as the biggest obstacle.

Residents Losing Patience

For Bend native Erin, the frustration comes even outside the city’s busiest season.

“Any time I can’t find parking, it’s stressful,” she said. “Even now, we’re in off-season, and there’s still not that much available.”

Derek Braun, a Bend High graduate and lifelong resident, believes outdoor parklets that were introduced during the pandemic have made things worse. “Probably freeing up some parking spots would help. That outdoor seating should go away,” he said.

Braun added that many small business owners he knows feel “frustrated with the current situation on the parking scheme.”

What Businesses and Officials Say

According to Visit Bend, locals — not tourists — account for the majority of spending in town for most of the year. That means when residents stay away, restaurants and shops feel it. Some suggest discounts or locals-only perks, similar to what’s done in Maui, to bring them back.

“Make locals feel special,” suggested Dave, an Eastside resident. “Like they’re not just part of the crowd, but the community that keeps this place running.”

The Downtown Bend Business Association says it is working to improve parking strategies and enhance its gift card program. But city officials told KTVZ no new parking is planned. The last downtown lot was added seven years ago — when Bend had 10,000 fewer residents.

The City added a new parking guidance system in 2023, aimed at making it easier and quicker for people to find parking spots. However, the Problem Solvers spoke with three residents who said it hasn't made any difference for them. One was even unsure how it worked.

Different Visions for the Future

Not everyone believes more parking is the answer. Bend resident Adam sees bigger shifts coming.

“Additional parking is kind of a short-term solution,” he said. “The future is probably self-driving cars. Bend is such a walkable city, so you might as well slow down and enjoy it.”

Whether through new lots, ending pandemic-era parklets, or encouraging more walkability, the debate over downtown Bend’s parking crunch is far from resolved. What is clear: For many locals, the struggle to find a spot is reason enough to stay home.