March 25, 2005

Bend Urban Planning Commission

City of Bend, Planning Division

P.O. Box 431

Bend, Oregon 97709

RE: 05-17, South Canyon Trail Bridge Project

In response to testimony of opponents of the south Canyon Trail Bridge Project I would like to affirm the testimony of Mr. Bruce Ronning, Director of Planning and Development for the Bend Metro Park and Recreation District. Both the Board and the constituents that I have spoken with about this project have express strong support for it.

The BMPRD Board publicly discussed the South Canyon Bridge Project more than a year ago when it authorized a Recreation Trails Grant application January 6, 2004. The subject was again discussed on July 20, 2004 when we authorized a Local Grant Application. In addition the BMPRD included the drawings in displays at the River Trail Ramble in Farewell Bend Park and at the 4^th of July Celebration in Drake Park.

Public input into all BMPRD projects, including trails, is a guiding principle for the BMPRD Board and the District. Inevitably, not everyone potentially affected by projects will be identified. I believe, however, that the efforts of BMPRD to inform the public about this important trail connection have been more than adequate.

Sincerely,

Ted Schoenborn

Vice Chairman, Board of Directors

Bend Metro Park and Recreation District