BEND, OR -- Bend Parks and Recreation's board of directors has agreed to build a permanent Art Station at Larkspur Park. The district took over Art Station programs in 2016 after the nonprofit Arts Central closed. But the programs had to move out of the old train depot in the Old Mill last year, when the amphitheater needed the space. Since then, they’ve been held at various locations, including at the Larkspur Community Center.

“Constructing a new facility for the Art Station at Larkspur Park provides considerable opportunities for shared staffing, co-programming and scheduling coordination,” Matt Mercer, recreation services director, said in a statement. “The placement within a park also provides direct connection to both developed and natural areas that will enhance art programming and ignite creativity for youth and adults.”

Parks officials believe construction will cost around $2.5 million and hope to have the new facility open by the summer of 2026.

Image courtesy Bend Park & Recreation District