Stormwater & Your Property: Understanding the 2026 Public Facility Plan

Bend is growing, and with that growth comes more rooftops, driveways, and sidewalks. These surfaces don’t absorb rain, which means managing runoff is more important than ever. Consequently, the City of Bend recently adopted the 2026 Stormwater Public Facility Plan. This long-range strategy ensures our infrastructure can handle heavier storms while protecting our local environment. For homeowners, particularly on the Eastside, this plan is the blueprint for how we keep our neighborhoods dry and our river clean.

Key Takeaways

• Infrastructure Updates: The plan identifies 12 major capital projects to reduce chronic flooding.

• Eastside Drainage Focus: New strategies target aging systems in Eastside neighborhoods to prevent seasonal pooling.

• Water Quality Protection: Enhanced filtration systems will keep oils and pollutants out of the Deschutes River.

• Rate Adjustments: Future utility fees will likely align with the new “level-of-service” metrics defined in the plan.

• Development Standards: New construction must meet stricter on-site management rules to protect neighboring properties.

Why the 2026 Stormwater Public Facility Plan Matters

As we experience more dramatic weather events, our old drainage systems are feeling the pressure. Therefore, the 2026 Stormwater Public Facility Plan was created to modernize our approach. This document isn’t just a list of pipes. Instead, it is a 20-year vision for the city. It ensures that as we add more density, our water management systems stay ahead of the curve.

Solving Eastside Drainage Challenges

Historically, some Eastside neighborhoods have struggled with “nuisance flooding” during rapid snowmelts or summer thunderstorms. Because the Eastside has different soil compositions than the Westside, water doesn’t always soak in as quickly. The new plan specifically addresses these drainage gaps. Consequently, homeowners can expect to see more localized projects, such as drywell retrofits and improved swales, in the coming years.

Capital Projects and Local Property Values

Infrastructure might not be as exciting as a new park, but it is vital for property value. A home that stays dry during a 100-year storm is a more secure investment. Thus, the 12 capital projects outlined in the plan are designed to protect both public roads and private land. By prioritizing these upgrades, the city is helping to stabilize and even boost Northeast Bend property values by reducing flood risk.

Protecting the Deschutes River and Groundwater

Our community deeply values the Deschutes River and our underlying aquifer. However, stormwater runoff is a leading source of water pollution. The 2026 Stormwater Public Facility Plan introduces advanced treatment “trains”—series of filters and basins—that catch pollutants before they reach our water. Therefore, every time you pay your utility bill, you are directly contributing to the health of our local ecosystem.

Managing Density with Centralized Facilities

As Bend becomes more dense, on-site drainage becomes more difficult for developers. Consequently, the city is exploring “centralized” facilities. Rather than every small lot having its own tiny drain, a whole subdivision might share one large, efficiently managed system. This shift allows for more housing while ensuring that runoff is handled by a professional-grade facility.

What This Means for Your Monthly Utility Bill

To fund these critical upgrades, a rate study is currently underway. The 2026 Stormwater Public Facility Plan provides the technical data needed to set these rates fairly. Typically, fees are based on the amount of “impervious surface” on your property. Thus, if you have a massive driveway, you might pay slightly more than a neighbor with a smaller footprint. This system encourages homeowners to use permeable materials where possible.

Final Thoughts on Stormwater and Your Home

Understanding the city’s long-term infrastructure goals helps you make better decisions for your own property. Whether you are looking at adding an ADU or simply want to know why a new swale is being dug on your street, the 2026 Stormwater Public Facility Plan is the key. By staying informed, you can ensure your property remains a dry, safe, and valuable part of the Bend community.