Beginning in early 2019, the City of Bend set out to create a common vision and implementation plan for the Core Area, which includes the Bend Central District, East Downtown, Inner Highway 20/Greenwood and KorPine. The main goal of the Core Area Project is to create an interconnected place to live, work, and play, by infusing public and private investments.

Newly adopted programs will directly impact existing businesses located in the Core Area, as well as incentivize housing and mixed-use development. The proposals are now moved to Bend City Council for final approval and budget allocation.

The Core Area Business Assistance Program is intended to support Core Area businesses in making both internal and external improvements that would enhance the customer experience, aesthetics of the Core Area, and business success. The program has two tracks: 1) Design Assistance ($5,000-$7,500 grants); and 2) Construction Assistance (up to $50,000 grants).

 

The Core Area Development Assistance Program is a grant and/or loan program to help offset development costs for housing and mixed-use (commercial/residential) projects located in the Core Area. Up to $750,000 is proposed to be available to any single project through this program.

Both programs have oversight via the Core Area Advisory Board, comprised of Core Area residents and business owners, members with expertise in real estate, multi-modal transportation, social and environmental justice and partners at the City, Deschutes County and other taxing districts.

For more information on the Core Area Project and funding opportunities, please visit: https://www.bendoregon.gov/government/departments/growth-management/coreareaimplementation.