Bend Residents Call for Transportation Reforms and Energy Choices

Residents of Bend, Oregon, are voicing concerns about local transportation and energy policies, urging city officials to consider alternative solutions. In a series of letters published on December 26, 2025, community members highlighted the challenges posed by rapid population growth and the transition from natural gas to electric energy sources.

James Elliott, a long-time Bend resident, remarked on the changing landscape of the city that has nearly doubled its population since he arrived in 2011. He noted that while Bend maintains a small-town feel, the increase in residents has led to significant traffic congestion. Elliott emphasized that the city’s reliance on private vehicles has contributed to slow traffic speeds and rising accident rates.

According to Elliott, most residents can still choose to walk or bike, even in winter months. He tracked his own travel habits over the past eight years and found that he missed only about ten days each winter due to snow or ice, except during the extreme winter of 2016-2017. He argued that the city must adopt a transportation system that accommodates all modes of travel, including biking, walking, and public transport.

While the city is implementing solutions like traffic light timing and roundabout expansions, Elliott pointed out that such measures are costly—expanding a roundabout can cost nearly $3 million. The challenge lies in the lack of available space for new lanes, as Bend cannot simply demolish homes to accommodate increased traffic.

Elliott urged the community to confront the reality that their transportation choices have contributed to the current traffic situation. He called for collaboration to develop a more inclusive transportation system that addresses the needs of the 30% of Bend residents who do not drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints.

In a contrasting perspective, Thomas Triplett, another member of the Bend community, expressed strong opposition to the shift from natural gas to electric energy. Drawing from his extensive experience in antitrust law, which spans over 55 years, he cautioned against forcing consumers to make abrupt switches without adequate infrastructure.

Triplett argued that such a transition could lead to severe consequences, including homelessness for some residents unable to afford new electric appliances or the necessary upgrades to their homes. He stressed the importance of waiting for further scientific and infrastructural developments before pushing for a complete switch to electric energy.

He also criticized the city’s rapid growth, which he claimed has exacerbated issues like traffic congestion and environmental degradation. Triplett’s concerns reflect a broader unease among residents regarding the balance between development and sustainable living.

As Bend navigates these complex issues, residents like Elliott and Triplett hope for a collaborative approach that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and environmental stewardship. The ongoing discussions underscore the need for thoughtful planning that considers the diverse needs of the community in a rapidly changing urban landscape.