Bend committee discusses accessible housing and culture for 2025 initiatives

The City of Bend's Accessibility Advisory Committee convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss plans for enhancing community accessibility in 2025. The meeting highlighted the importance of integrating accessibility into housing and transportation initiatives, particularly in light of the upcoming Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansion, which will introduce deed-restricted affordable housing on the south side of town.

Committee member John emphasized the need for proactive measures to ensure that new housing developments include accessible units. He noted that accessibility varies across different abilities and disabilities, underscoring the committee's commitment to advocating for inclusive living spaces near public transportation. This focus aligns with broader community goals of creating an accessible environment for all residents.

The committee also reflected on past initiatives, including participation in community events like City Fest, where they aimed to raise awareness about their mission. John expressed a desire to continue promoting the committee's resources and initiatives, suggesting that outreach could take various forms beyond traditional events.

Stephanie, another committee member, shared her enthusiasm for the revised goals established in previous meetings. She proposed consolidating efforts among different work groups to enhance the impact of their initiatives. This consolidation could streamline their objectives and foster a stronger culture of accessibility within Bend. She also suggested creating informational materials for the upcoming Breaking Barriers conference, which would help communicate the committee's goals and gather community input.

Amanda echoed Stephanie's sentiments, advocating for a more focused approach that could lead to significant achievements by the end of 2025. The committee's discussions indicate a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive community, with plans to refine their strategies and enhance collaboration among members.

As the committee looks ahead to 2025, the emphasis on accessibility in housing and transportation, along with a renewed focus on community engagement, positions Bend to make meaningful strides toward becoming a more inclusive city. The next steps will involve further discussions on resource allocation and the potential for collaborative efforts to maximize their impact.