Sawyer Park on Bend’s north side is about to get a makeover thanks to a $1.33 million federal grant.

The grant from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund was awarded to the Bend Park & Recreation District to improve facilities within the park, according to a joint statement issued by Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley.

The federal investment will go toward a $2.95 million renovation of the park, which includes a permanent restroom, shelter, enhanced trails and picnic areas. The project also includes expanding and moving the existing parking lot.

“In our public outreach process, we heard from the community that the natural character of the park was one of the most beloved features. By moving the parking lot closer to the road we are able to restore some of the interior park space, making a larger contiguous habitat area,” said Bronwen Mastro, a landscape architect with the district.

Funds for the project will also be sourced from Oregon’s Local Government Grant Program and property taxes, according to the park district’s website. Construction is expected to be complete by 2026.

“These funds allow us to go beyond basic maintenance to the park and include features that enhance the user experience,” Mastro said.

The 53-acre Sawyer Park, located off O.B. Riley Road, straddles the Deschutes River as it slices through Bend’s northern neighborhoods. The park was established in 1931 and managed by Oregon State Parks until 1980 when it was acquired by the Bend Park & Recreation District.

The park is named after Robert W. Sawyer, a Harvard Law graduate who made his way to Bend in 1912. Sawyer initially worked at a local sawmill but spent most of his time in Bend as an editor and owner of The Bulletin. In 1953 he sold the paper to Robert Chandler.

During his time in Bend, he helped establish St. Charles Hospital and spent seven years as a county judge, according to historical reports. Sawyer was a conservationist and championed the establishment of several state parks.

Sawyer Park, one of more than 80 parks and open space areas managed by the Bend Park & Recreation District, is known for its natural setting and wildlife. More than 140 species of birds have been spotted in the park, including bald eagles, osprey, ruby-crowned kinglets and great blue herons, according to the district website. Fishing is also possible in the park with a limit of two trout per day.