[alphawolf]

I just did a google and found an article from back in October mentioning Idaho, Arizona and New Mexico are on the short list...maybe it has changed since then.
If our big competition is AZ then we should win.

When F-35 production ends its should total 2,443 with all variants included. What this means as far as air force numbers go (F-35A) I don't know, but generally there will be more than enough to supply bases in those three listed states even after the big bases get their share. Problem being, don't know how long it would take. Also squadrons change and bases close. Gates already cut F-22 production and you never know what a couple years could do to this number as well. Also F-35s are suppose to be replacing A-10s starting 2028.

[Visualize]

I predict in the near future manned fighters will become completely obsolete. The military has already started to cut back quite considerably.

Check out The Complete UAV Field Guide

http://www.popsci.com/technology/gallery/2010-02/gallery-future-drones

[Boise Benchman]

I was just going to add that specifically I know that Tucson's Davis Monthon AFB was the AZ base on the short list. Before leaving Tucson I had read they were hoping to land the F-35's and WERE on the short list as well as Mountain Home's AFB. That was back in January.

The Tucson base is right in the midst of the south-end of town and I believe that noise levels were a concern for a lot of residents there...

[Cottonwood]

More positive news about the evolving Boise economy!! Click the the links for the rest of the story



http://media.ktvb.com/images/108*72/solarcompanies.jpg



http://www.ktvb.com/news/Treasure-Valley-could-pave-way-to-a-Solar-Valley-90316037.html

Treasure Valley could pave way to a Solar Valley
by Nishi Gupta
Idaho's NewsChannel 7

Posted on April 8, 2010 at 9:47 PM

Updated yesterday at 10:30 PM


BOISE -- Solar energy companies are turning up the heat as they eye the Treasure Valley to set up shop.

Several recently visited the City of Trees and liked what they saw.

One of them is even moving in soon.

Local economic experts say Idaho has positioned itself well, and that the Treasure Valley could soon turn into the Solar Valley.

"The alternative energy industry and the solar industry is growing by leaps and bounds and we're at the forefront," said Jana Chalfant of the Boise Valley Economic Partnership.


...................Chalfant works with companies interested in relocating to the Treasure Valley. She says two solar panel manufacturers recently visited: one is American, the other Chinese. A third company, a solar component manufacturer, just signed a lease in Boise. That office will be the company's only U.S. sales hub. They would not bring jobs yet, but Chalfant says once it gets going, other companies could soon follow and bring jobs with them.

"A skilled high-tech workforce and vacant buildings that can be easily retrofitted are also draws," Chalfant said. But perhaps the largest lure is cheap power rates. She says Idaho has some of the lowest in the West and solar companies use a lot of energy to make their energy

[GrandTeton]

This is incredible news! Owyhee county would have great potential for solar power.

[CaliforniaKid]

When you boil it all down.. It's sunny here ALL THE TIME...

IDAHO ROCKS!!!!! :notacrook:

[Sawtooth]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/009-8.jpg







http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/014-5.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/016-5.jpg








A flashback and because I crave Summer, a pic I posted in a previous thread from late summer 2007, pre Aspen, taken from Crescent Rim.

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/EDEN/100_8778.jpg





And a few from a previous thread, October 2008. Aspen in progress, Crescent Rim. I love the views from the Bench; the parks, urban forest, water, downtown, mountains, and sky.
http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Boise%20October/5-9.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Boise%20October/6-9.jpg

[Visualize]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/009-8.jpg

Right Click Save. Nice pics, thanks.

[boisecynic]

Sweet pano. How'd you do that? Is that stitched together? I sure can't see the seam. Pano lens?

[Cottonwood]

Nice pic. It is too bad the Wells Fargo tower was not built with more floors.

[Sawtooth]

Sweet pano. How'd you do that? Is that stitched together? I sure can't see the seam. Pano lens?


Thanks, and also to Visualize and Cottonwood.

My camera lens has a setting for landscape pano's, so it all fit in one original photo. I use this setting often for nature pics.

[Northernlad]

Those views are beautiful and the setting is so unique. Boise has done it right with the huge parks.

[Sawtooth]

Those views are beautiful and the setting is so unique. Boise has done it right with the huge parks.

Yes Boise has. There is almost 300 acres of contiguous parkland below the Bench along the river in the downtown area and this is just the acreage for 3 parks: Kathryn Albertson Park, Ann Morrison Park and Julia Davis Park, this number does not include the length of the Greenbelt or the dozens of other parks. The parks are amazing and much better than infill.

[CaliforniaKid]

Thanks Saw for those pics...

Not to mention that Boise is surrounded by beautiful mountains, 16 miles from a great ski resort..

[CaliforniaKid]

Les Bois je vous aime!!! :notacrook:


Boise I love you...

[boisecynic]

Found this thread:

http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=169045

There are pics of 2009's Reno River Festival and one of Reno's new AAA baseball stadium.

[IdaBoi]

Sweet skyline pics!!! Boise = Beautiful.

[cdp6204]

money.cnn.com/galleries/2010/fortune/1004/gallery.fortune500_best_investments.fortune/11.html

[Cottonwood]

It is nice living in a city with such an attractive and kick ass downtown area. I think downtown's really define what a city is all about and the mindset of the people who live in those cities. Downtown Boise is an excellent example of how a city center can thrive without malls and "lifestyle centers" (which are really mundane malls anyways). It makes you wonder why the local major paper never runs stories like this, but if a restaurant closes in downtown they report as if the sky is falling.

http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/dba-reports-new-life-in-downtown-boi/Content?oid=1558752
New life has been stirring in downtown Boise since the New Year. According to the Downtown Boise Association, 16 new retailers opened between January and mid-April, two more are on their way and two others got bigger. That brings the total number of downtown retail, restaurant and retail service businesses to about 300.

New to downtown:

Bricolage, 280 N. Eighth St., 208-345-3718

The Box in the Basement, 280 N. Eighth St., 208-703-5149

Capital Ties, 720 W. Idaho St., 208-321-4004

Casa Del Sol (fka Eighth Street Bistro), 409 S. Eighth St., 208-287-3660

The C Store, 280 N. Eighth St., 208-761-9695

Downtown Mattress, 830 W. Bannock St., 208-343-2122

Eclectic Art Store, 280 N. Eighth St., 208-761-9695

Flatbread Community Oven, 615 W. Main St., 208-287-4757

Idaho Indie Works, 106 N. Sixth St., 208-342-0804

JJB Longboards, 280 N. Eighth St., 208-869-9299

Jimmy Johns Gourmet Sandwiches, 598 Main St., 208-955-7250

Lululemon Athletica, 215 N. Ninth St., 208-914-4993

Moxie Java, Qwest Arena, 208-345-1744

Solid Grill & Bar, 401 S. Eighth St., 208-345-6620

Sin Nightclub, 1124 W. Front St., 208-342-3375

Ward Hooper Gallery, 745 W. Idaho St., 208-866-4627


Coming soon to downtown:

Rediscovered Book Shop, 208-376-4229----yes!!

TixxFixx, 734 W. Broad St., 208-333-8499

Re-locations:

Ella's Room moved from 413 S. Eighth St. to 216 N. Ninth St., 208-331-3552

Expanded/expanding:

Buns in the Oven, 413 S. Eighth St., 208-342-5683

The Stylish Stork, 405 S. Eighth St., 208-336-5655

Yen Ching Bakery, 305 N. Ninth St., 208-384-0384

[el conquistador]

Thought this was pretty cool, I have noticed everyone in our neighborhood uses their recycle bins.

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Boises-recycling-program-touted-as-a-big-success-91662034.html

I would love to see the Treasure Valley get a recovery center as well.

[ianjt]

Does anyone know when BSU will be starting construction on the Business Building? I noticed that the Hotel has no more students in it, which means they should be getting ready to bring it down...

Also, I just got back from Portland, and I have to say that I am envious of downtown feel that Portland has. Not too big, but it has a big-city feel like New York. I hope as the economy turns up that Boise will start to have more projects.

[andyroo]

BSU was suppose to start demolition on the inn this spring... My guess is they need that parking lot for the few general parking spaces that it holds, so I'd expect demolition to start once the spring semester ends.

Has anyone noticed the demo going on at the old east jr high? BSU is taking over!

[Sawtooth]

The ultimate Boise spring photo thread is almost ready.:D

[Boisebro]

It's amazing what can be seen while walking around for 30 minutes in Kathryn Albertson Park. You don't have to leave downtown Boise to see wildlife.

Hopefully nobody minds that I posted some park pics here




i have nothing against parks.

i just wish ours were taller and more dense.

:sly:

[Cottonwood]

The entire article is at the link.
http://www.boiseweekly.com/blogs/CityDesk/
Boise / economy Downtown makes Boise go 'round
Posted by Zach Hagadone on Thu, Apr 22, 2010 at 2:43 PM



If you happened to be walking through the North End last night, you might have seen former three-term Seattle Mayor Charles Royer sittin’ on (CCDC boss) Phil Kushlan’s porch, talkin’ about Boise and world issues.

According to Royer, who was in the City of Trees to deliver this morning’s keynote at the 23rd annual State of Downtown meeting, the front stoop consensus was that “healthy cities have healthy downtowns,” and that downtown investment will speed economic recovery.


“The most conspicuous attribute of our wealth is to be able to walk to work,” he said.

Boise is doing a lot of things right. It has ample green spaces and pedestrian friendly downtown districts, civic pride and a nearby university that actively reaches out to the community.



A slate of development projects are in the works as well, ranging from Concordia University’s new law school on Fifth and Front streets, to Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) on Ninth and Broad, to the Capitol Plaza office complex on Capitol and Front.

[Cottonwood]

Cool pics Sawtooth. I used to live in another city where the parks were not much of an asset, either they were places for guys to cruise other guys for sex or they had such a bad reputation for drugs, muggings, and murders and it was not just a once a year issue, but often occurances. Boise parks are a breath of fresh air...it is nice to be able to use a restroom in a park without seeing another guy next to you playing with his organ:yuck:

[Cottonwood]

http://cobe.boisestate.edu/


more at the link..

http://idahobusinessreview.com/blog/2010/04/28/bsu-names-new-business-building-for-micron/
BSU names new business building for Micron
by IBR Staff
Published: April 28,2010
Time posted: 10:54 am



Boise State University’s new home for the College of Business and Economics will be known as the Micron Business & Economics Building. The State Board of Education approved the naming of the building earlier this month.

“This is a fitting tribute to the Micron Technology Foundation, a longtime supporter of Boise State University,” Boise State President Bob Kustra said. “Their support of higher education has helped ensure that our future leaders have access to the finest quality facilities and programs.”

The Micron Technology Foundation committed to a $12.5 million lead gift for the business building in 2007, with $5 million of it contingent on Boise State raising matching funds by Dec. 31, 2009. The university successfully met the challenge and will begin construction this summer on the $37 million building at the corner of University Drive and Capitol Boulevard. It is expected to open in fall 2012.

[boisecynic]

Whitewater park update:

Finally, fill to start moving this week to shore up levee between Boise River and the pond. Pleasanton greenbelt spur to be gated closed between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm. Large old dumped concrete piles from what was the old concrete plant have already been jackhammered, probably for use as fill material. River flow at Glenwood has gone from below 500 cfs to above 1200 cfs this week, not sure if that has increased the recharge rate of the pond. Beer cans on bottom of pond, priceless.

This blurb was on the Statesman's front page last night and this morning it's disappeared. Browser history finally comes in handy:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/01/1174892/part-of-boise-greenbelt-closed.html

And in case you missed it, this was on the front page of their website AND the print edition last Tuesday;
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/04/27/1168908/river-park-off-and-running.html

[Visualize]

Good stuff. That is going to be such an asset to Boise and Garden City.

Any word on how Esther Simplot Park is progressing?

[Sawtooth]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/018.jpg






http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/066-1.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/016-6.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/007.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/101.jpg

[Eeyore]

Awesome pictures! I really like you close up shot of the highrise.

[CaliforniaKid]

I always like seeing the green mountains in the spring. I've even thought of planting trees on those mountains. I figure if one person from Boise plants just one tree on those mountains before you know it you will get a nice forest going..

Thanks for the pics saw!!

[Visualize]

I think the best feature of Boise's hills is that you can see the shadows and rolling nature of the land. San Jose has hills on both sides of the valley, the east are similar to Boise in that they don't have much vegetation on them, and the west are covered in very dense trees, as you probably know. I very much prefer looking east. Drive over the hill in Boise if you want a forest...it goes for hundreds of miles.

[CaliforniaKid]

I think the best feature of Boise's hills is that you can see the shadows and rolling nature of the land. San Jose has hills on both sides of the valley, the east are similar to Boise in that they don't have much vegetation on them, and the west are covered in very dense trees, as you probably know. I very much prefer looking east. Drive over the hill in Boise if you want a forest...it goes for hundreds of miles.

Oh yes... I know. I live near San Jose. Very dry out here just like in Boise. I think however if they were covered in trees, that actually might help the air too and cool the place off.

[Sawtooth]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/015.jpg








And a few from a much closer location in the Foothills directly above the Northend in an area between 6th and 8th Streets a hop away from Lower Hulls Gulch. I am going to have more of these types of views posted soon in my city Spring photography thread. I am obsessed with looking for that perfect skyline view with the Owyhee Mountains in the background.


http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/001.jpg








http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/pano.jpg








and a hint of some Oregon Trail pics which will be in the thread.


http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/050.jpg

[CaliforniaKid]

Wow... What awesome shots!!

Saw.. You DA man!! :tup:

[Visualize]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/pano.jpg


Nice pic. This really shows how close an abundance of available land is to downtown. Granted the airport is right there, but just beyond, and to the east there is land as far as the eye can see. The potentially good part is the difficulty in currently developing this land, and the ease with which development can go west. Hopefully when the east is developed smart growth urban design standards will be the norm, cars will be smaller and more automated, and Boise could eventually have extremely unique development patterns very close to the urban core.

[CaliforniaKid]

It would look good on any postcard for sure... :cheers:

[Sawtooth]

Awesome pictures! I really like you close up shot of the highrise.



Thanks Eeyore.

and CaliforniaKid and Visualize.





I think the best feature of Boise's hills is that you can see the shadows and rolling nature of the land. San Jose has hills on both sides of the valley, the east are similar to Boise in that they don't have much vegetation on them, and the west are covered in very dense trees, as you probably know. I very much prefer looking east. Drive over the hill in Boise if you want a forest...it goes for hundreds of miles.


I agree about the Foothills and their nature, they almost seem to change from morning to night depending on how the sun is hitting them; the long deep gulches and billowy hills are almost like an art piece because depending on sun and weather you can see details not seen on other days, and the pine forests on the upper reaches kind of top off the appeal of the mountains.

The forests behind us are great, and it is an asset that they extend all of the way north to British Columbia, what is that-- nearly 400 miles or so, and hundreds of miles east and west. I believe Boise is near more forest lands than anyplace else or major city in the Rocky Mountain States, except for cities in North Idaho of course.

[Sawtooth]

It would look good on any postcard for sure... :cheers:
Thanks again. I should have moved a few feet and tried to get the entire facade of The Aspen, maybe I can get up there again soon.




Nice pic. This really shows how close an abundance of available land is to downtown. Granted the airport is right there, but just beyond, and to the east there is land as far as the eye can see. The potentially good part is the difficulty in currently developing this land, and the ease with which development can go west. Hopefully when the east is developed smart growth urban design standards will be the norm, cars will be smaller and more automated, and Boise could eventually have extremely unique development patterns very close to the urban core.


It is surprising just how much open and undeveloped land is south and east of Boise and that downtown is so close to all of that, and also that time and history led to the metro extending west while downtown is on the far east side.

[boisecynic]

Regarding the undeveloped land to the south and east. The problem is water. The terrain to the south and east is higher and no reservoir water is available and it's my understanding that wells have to be drilled 1000' feet or more. Regardless, wells won't be able to provide for any kind of dense development.

[Visualize]

Regarding the undeveloped land to the south and east. The problem is water. The terrain to the south and east is higher and no reservoir water is available and it's my understanding that wells have to be drilled 1000' feet or more. Regardless, wells won't be able to provide for any kind of dense development.

Actually, wells are only allowed if they can identify a future source of water. That future source of water would be piped from the Snake River, but the last quote I read was that it would cost $350 million. This source would absolutely provide for dense development.

[boisecynic]

Piped? Or Pumped? Pumping will be expensive. Sewer, gas, electric and roads will have to be installed too-----more expense. When market conditions warrant these added expenses then the south and east desert areas will be developed. There's still a ton of land just as close but with more installed infrastructure.

What's up with all that land north of Chinden out towards HP? I guess when they build the coat hanger road (years from now) then that land will be more attractive.

[Boisekid]

Regarding the land north of chinden, it's all privately owned and the owner has no interest in selling it any time soon.

[Visualize]

Piped? Or Pumped? Pumping will be expensive. Sewer, gas, electric and roads will have to be installed too-----more expense. When market conditions warrant these added expenses then the south and east desert areas will be developed. There's still a ton of land just as close but with more installed infrastructure.

What's up with all that land north of Chinden out towards HP? I guess when they build the coat hangar road (years from now) then that land will be more attractive.

okay...pumped...through a pipe. And I know it will be expensive which was exactly my point from the beginning on why developing that land is difficult now, and that when it finally is will have unique development patterns. :shrug:

[andyroo]

http://www.compassidaho.org/documents/articles/9.6M.pdf

Any word on that project? At first I thought it was part of the failed Boise street car project, but it sounds like it may be separate..

[andyroo]

http://www.compassidaho.org/documents/articles/9.6M.pdf

Any word on that project? At first I thought it was part of the failed Boise street car project, but it sounds like it may be separate..

Did some more digging and found this article. Sounds like it is a separate project. Also, does anyone know what the 100 million dollar project the developer is talking about?

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/06/1180116/transit-center-plan-still-stirring.html

[bronco(bsu) Student]

Did some more digging and found this article. Sounds like it is a separate project. Also, does anyone know what the 100 million dollar project the developer is talking about?

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/06/1180116/transit-center-plan-still-stirring.html

The transit center has been going through the planning stages for the past four or five years(I vaguely remember discussions about it).

The development mentioned is something that has been discussed a little here and there. All I can recall is that the repainting of the former Boise Cascade building, and the building of a parking garage on their land is part of it. I don't remember any specifics on the project except that it included park space, hotel, offices, and etc.

Edit:Here is the link to a rough master plan.
Statesman Link (http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2010/05/06/00/0506_Local_streetcar.source.prod_affiliate.36.pdf)

Although the interesting line in the article is the mentioning of Rafanelli owning the SE lot at Capitol and Front, which is where the Capitol Plaza complex was proposed to go. Although the fact that he offered up the lot for the transit center isn't a good sign. It could've been a move to save the project they seem committed to getting done first. We shall see.

Link to Capitol Plaza brochure:Link (http://www.boisecapitolplaza.com/images/plazaBROCHURE.pdf)

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/11/1188357/concordia-buys-building-for-boise.html

Concordia buys building for Boise law school
By Bill Roberts - broberts@idahostatesman.com
Published: 05/11/10




Concordia University has completed the purchase of a 17,000-square-foot building at 501 Front St. for a law school it intends to open in 2011.

The school also plans to construct a 33,000-square-foot addition to the building in time for the law school's opening, Concordia officials said.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/11/1188357/concordia-buys-building-for-boise.html#ixzz0ndgW7Zs1

[Boisekid]

That's great news about the university. Hopefully it will continue to expand. And not a big deal, but anybody hear about what will happen with the naming rights of Qwest Arena since Qwest is being bought out? Will they look for a new sponsor or will the company that bought Qwest use their name? CenturyTel Arena? Not sure I like it

[Evo5Boise]

The transit center has been going through the planning stages for the past four or five years(I vaguely remember discussions about it).

The development mentioned is something that has been discussed a little here and there. All I can recall is that the repainting of the former Boise Cascade building, and the building of a parking garage on their land is part of it. I don't remember any specifics on the project except that it included park space, hotel, offices, and etc.

Edit:Here is the link to a rough master plan.
Statesman Link (http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2010/05/06/00/0506_Local_streetcar.source.prod_affiliate.36.pdf)

Although the interesting line in the article is the mentioning of Rafanelli owning the SE lot at Capitol and Front, which is where the Capitol Plaza complex was proposed to go. Although the fact that he offered up the lot for the transit center isn't a good sign. It could've been a move to save the project they seem committed to getting done first. We shall see.

Link to Capitol Plaza brochure:Link (http://www.boisecapitolplaza.com/images/plazaBROCHURE.pdf)

Clicked on the link to the Capitol Plaza. Nice brochure. I really like that building. Anybody heard any more about that development?

[bronco(bsu) Student]

Clicked on the link to the Capitol Plaza. Nice brochure. I really like that building. Anybody heard any more about that development?

From what has been stated in the past, the developer(who is the same person developing the area around Boise Plaza) is waiting for the economy to turn.

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/12/1189200/idaho-presents-itself-as-the-green.html

Idaho presents itself as the 'Green Energy State'
Thirteen foreign journalists are examining Idaho's renewable energy businesses - and that could bring international attention
BY ROCKY BARKER - rbarker@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2010 Idaho Statesman
Published: 05/12/10

The geothermal waters that warm the Idaho Capitol and the sprawling wind turbines towering on the horizons of southern Idaho signal the state's growing commitment to green energy.

Idaho's green energy push is very different than that of other states and countries. It has offered few tax incentives and has never established so-called renewable energy portfolio standards - which require utilities to use so much green power- to promote the industry.

Instead, Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little told the journalists, Idaho's quality of life and the state's commitment to fiscal restraint offer a strong base for the emerging green energy business. Idaho, he noted, has the smallest debt in the nation



Idaho clearly is in a better position than most states right now, especially California, said John Church, an economic consultant and professor at Boise State University.

"When the economy turns, Idaho will pick up a fair share of people and businesses that will exit the state of California," Church said.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/12/1189200/idaho-presents-itself-as-the-green.html#ixzz0njrimbxo

[andyroo]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/12/1189200/idaho-presents-itself-as-the-green.html

Idaho presents itself as the 'Green Energy State'
Thirteen foreign journalists are examining Idaho's renewable energy businesses - and that could bring international attention
BY ROCKY BARKER - rbarker@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2010 Idaho Statesman
Published: 05/12/10

The geothermal waters that warm the Idaho Capitol and the sprawling wind turbines towering on the horizons of southern Idaho signal the state's growing commitment to green energy.

Idaho's green energy push is very different than that of other states and countries. It has offered few tax incentives and has never established so-called renewable energy portfolio standards - which require utilities to use so much green power- to promote the industry.

Instead, Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little told the journalists, Idaho's quality of life and the state's commitment to fiscal restraint offer a strong base for the emerging green energy business. Idaho, he noted, has the smallest debt in the nation



Idaho clearly is in a better position than most states right now, especially California, said John Church, an economic consultant and professor at Boise State University.

"When the economy turns, Idaho will pick up a fair share of people and businesses that will exit the state of California," Church said.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/12/1189200/idaho-presents-itself-as-the-green.html#ixzz0njrimbxo

I know that Boise State's expansion towards Beacon will be heated by geothermal. I think it's an awesome idea and can save a lot of $$ annually

[Eeyore]

I posted this in the Pueblo thread but decided to post it here to because of the impact it will have on your state.

PAYETTE, Idaho, May 11, 2010 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- Alternate Energy Holdings today announced that the Payette County, Idaho Board of Commissioners unanimously approved changes to their comprehensive plan for the specific purpose of building a nuclear power plant. The change involves a 5,000 acre piece of property, which adjusts the property's use from agricultural to industrial.

The proposed plant is expected to create around 5,000 jobs through the construction phase and more than 1,000 jobs during operations. Pay levels for those jobs will average $60,000 and $80,000 respectively.

The projected revenue for the county and state is staggering. During construction alone the project should increase Idaho's GDP by $5.3 billion, while $4.8 billion will flow directly through Payette County.

The link: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/alternate-energy-holdings-receives-unanimous-commissioner-vote-specifically-for-nuclear-plant-on-industrial-site-2010-05-11?reflink=MW_news_stmp

[Boisekid]

:previous: Wow that will be great for the state, especially for the Greater Boise Metro Area. If the F-35's come to the area as well, we could see another boom in the area soon.

[Cottonwood]

6 floor office/retail building proposed for 4th and Myrtle?


http://www.cityofboise.org/Departments/PDS/PDF/Hearings/Planning%20&%20Zoning%20Commission/Agendas/2010/06-14-10_PZagenda.pdf


http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=200903020825149060
CUP08-00105 & CVA08-00036 / BROAD STREET PROPERTIES
REQUESTS APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT A
98 FOOT TALL MIXED USE BUILDING THAT IS TO INCLUDE OFFICE,
PARKING, RETAIL, AND RESTAURANT SPACE ON ± 0.838 ACRES LOCATED
IN AN R-ODD ZONE. THIS APPLICATION INCLUDES A HEIGHT EXCEPTION
AND A VARIANCE REQUEST FROM THE FRONT SETBACK REQUIREMENT.


http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=200901060928286560


http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=200809111034250780

[Boisebro]

interesting rendering on the second to last link.

98' is pretty tall for a 6-floor building, but it adds some nice density to that area.

[Boisekid]

Bout time a project is proposed for the downtown area, albeit a smaller one. Still, a 100 ft bldg in that area will add some nice density. Finally a project worth talking about

[Sawtooth]

Boise, City of Bikes
Boise Bike Week starts tomorrow.

http://www.boisebikeweek.org/

[Sawtooth]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/025-7.jpg

[Sawtooth]

I am not sure if an updated photo of the Cityside Lofts in downtown on 13th Street has ever been posted here. The design is nice, urban, and a good transition from the Connector into downtown.



http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/052-1.jpg












http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/105-6.jpg

[Boisekid]

Boise officials begin to look at $45 million streetcar ‘starter route’

Boise Mayor Dave Bieter, city councilmen and members of the city’s urban renewal agency board are beginning to take a look at a $45 million, north-south “starter” streetcar route that would run across the Boise River as they rethink the idea of a downtown circulator system...

http://idahobusinessreview.com/blog/2010/05/14/boise-officials-begin-to-look-at-45-million-streetcar-%E2%80%98starter-route%E2%80%99/

[Visualize]

Boise officials begin to look at $45 million streetcar ‘starter route’

Boise Mayor Dave Bieter, city councilmen and members of the city’s urban renewal agency board are beginning to take a look at a $45 million, north-south “starter” streetcar route that would run across the Boise River as they rethink the idea of a downtown circulator system...

http://idahobusinessreview.com/blog/2010/05/14/boise-officials-begin-to-look-at-45-million-streetcar-%E2%80%98starter-route%E2%80%99/

North-South. Thank God.

If anybody is a subscriber can you post the full article?

[Boisekid]

Boise officials begin to look at $45 million streetcar ‘starter route’

by Simon Shifrin
Published: May 14,2010
Time posted: 12:49 pm
Tags: Boise streetcar, City of Boise, Dave Bieter, Transportation

Boise Mayor Dave Bieter, city councilmen and members of the city’s urban renewal agency board are beginning to take a look at a $45 million, north-south “starter” streetcar route that would run across the Boise River as they rethink the idea of a downtown circulator system.

The new route was floated as an alternative to the $60 million system that city officials had been pushing over the past 18 months during a board retreat of the city’s urban renewal agency, the Capital City Development Corp., on May 13.

The board also heard an initial report that detailed the findings of the mayor’s 35-member Streetcar Task Force, which convened in November 2008 to conduct a feasibility study about a potential streetcar system downtown.

The report urged city officials to hold off on streetcar plans until they develop an economic development strategy, secure federal funding and line up a dedicated source of money for ongoing operations.

Bieter, who attended the meeting, said the task force’s report offered a chance to take “a breather” and begin a discussion about alternatives to the $60 million plan he had been pushing - a 2.3 mile loop running 15 blocks from east to west.

The $60 million plan hit a setback in February when the city learned that it would not receive $40 million as part of the $1.5 billion Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery stimulus program, better known as TIGER.

Bieter said the possibility of that federal money had forced a hurried public conversation about a streetcar system along a specific route. He said the public dialogue can broaden now, though he said he has no regrets about suffering any political blows for pursuing the federal grant and beginning the in-depth studies needed to build a streetcar system.

“I would bear any burden and take any spear to improve the (transportation) system,” he said. “We were in the running. We were just out of the money. We were in the next tier of projects.”

He said he remains convinced that a streetcar system is “a fairly near-term possibility” - two to four years away - though he said conversations about alternative routes are only just starting. He said it will begin with small brainstorming sessions at City Hall and grow from there to conversations with landowners along alternative routes.

Phil Kushlan, CCDC executive director, offered a brief presentation on the starter route during the retreat.

It would run from 12th Street to the Morrison Center on the campus of Boise State University, traveling across a dedicated two-way lane of travel on the Capital Bridge. To cut back on costs, it would feature cheaper replica streetcars and offer only very limited east-west travel downtown. To keep waiting time to 10-15 minutes, the system would include an additional two to three cars.

Kushlan also detailed several additional segments that have sparked community interest: a route from the Anne Frank Memorial east and then back to the BSU Student Union Building, which would cost $37 million, and a route from the Anne Frank Memorial to the Boise Depot, which would cost about $35 million.

He said the city would have its best shot at federal funding by applying for a $25 million federal grant that won’t force it to compete with major projects like New York City subway extensions. However, it would still likely also require the city to put up $5 million, similar to previous plans.

And that cost has some city officials worried.

“I don’t know where we’re going to get the $5 million from,” said Councilman Alan Shealy. “We just went through a budget session, and I don’t know if it was quite the Donner Pass, but it was bracing. I don’t know if the Council’s going to scrape together the money.”

Councilman David Eberle also said a dedicated funding source to operate the system is “just critical.”

Additionally, the city will have to reckon with the findings of the mayor’s task force, which offered the following conclusions in its report:

• Develop an economic development strategy and regional transportation plan first.

• Federal funding is an essential part of a rail-based transportation solution.

• An ability to fund ongoing operations has not been demonstrated.

• Work with public and private sector partners to obtain a dedicated source of transit funds (local option taxation would be a possibility).

• A local improvement district might be acceptable if benefits to property owners exceed costs.

• Any future development or transit initiative will very likely require strong measures to build public awareness.

The CCDC board will formally consider the task force’s report at its June 14 meeting.

[TonyAnderson]

Those lofts look great.

[andyroo]

connecting bsu to downtown would be sweet!

[Cottonwood]

That pic of the park and mountains is beautiful Sawtooth...we have such a gorgeous backdrop in Boise.






Boise officials begin to look at $45 million streetcar ‘starter route’

Boise Mayor Dave Bieter, city councilmen and members of the city’s urban renewal agency board are beginning to take a look at a $45 million, north-south “starter” streetcar route that would run across the Boise River as they rethink the idea of a downtown circulator system...

http://idahobusinessreview.com/blog/2010/05/14/boise-officials-begin-to-look-at-45-million-streetcar-%E2%80%98starter-route%E2%80%99/

Now we're talking!

[BoiseTran]

I've been reading other people's posts for a few months now and finally decided to sign up for an account here. I grew up in Boise and I am nearing the end of a year away in Phoenix. I am so excited to get back into town. I'm also excited that the ball seems to be rolling on getting a realistic streetcar project in motion. Also, the 6-floor, 98' office building looks exciting. Hopefully neither of these run into too many obstacles. It's happened so often before.

[Boise Benchman]

Looks like good news for (Economy, Transportation, and Environment):

The city of Boise and a new local railroad partner up.
The state economy could benefit from a plan to build a major shipping hub by the Boise Airport.

Full Article from the Idaho Statesman.com:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/19/1198068/boise-new-local-railroad-partner.html

[Boise Benchman]

This is one of those stories where we see some proposed development either eliminated or scaled back in Boise... Sometimes the scale backs are not very forward thinking and seem like a half-efforts, and sometimes scaling back creates better oportunities for future development. What do you guys think about this news?

Public-private projects face iffy future at Boise State


Boise State's foiled attempt to build student housing through an agreement with a company that would bear the construction costs could cast a longer shadow over other university public-private enterprises ( . . . )

Full article from Idaho Statesman.com:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/15/1193483/public-private-projects-face-iffy.html

[Boisekid]

Good news about the rail line. Any new jobs to the area will be great. I'm just waiting for them to turn that rail line into a high-speed commuter rail!

[Evo5Boise]

This is one of those stories where we see some proposed development either eliminated or scaled back in Boise... Sometimes the scale backs are not very forward thinking and seem like a half-efforts, and sometimes scaling back creates better oportunities for future development. What do you guys think about this news?

Public-private projects face iffy future at Boise State


Boise State's foiled attempt to build student housing through an agreement with a company that would bear the construction costs could cast a longer shadow over other university public-private enterprises ( . . . )

Full article from Idaho Statesman.com:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/15/1193483/public-private-projects-face-iffy.html

Ya I heard about this the other day at work. My company was putting in a bid for the communications infrastructure on the project and I was told the plug got pulled on it.

[Visualize]

Looks like good news for (Economy, Transportation, and Environment):

The city of Boise and a new local railroad partner up.
The state economy could benefit from a plan to build a major shipping hub by the Boise Airport.

Full Article from the Idaho Statesman.com:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/19/1198068/boise-new-local-railroad-partner.html


Tie this in with the Port of Lewiston and Boise might really be on to something big.

The Port of Lewiston is the farthest inland port on the west coast and is Idaho's only seaport. It is 465 miles upriver from the Pacific Ocean, on the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers. Lewiston is the final stop on the nation's second-largest water transportation highway.

In 1958, the residents of Nez Perce County voted the port into existence. It became a working port in 1975 when the Lower Granite Dam was completed on the Snake River. The raging rivers needed to be quieted enough for barge traffic, and so there was a series of eight dams and locks built on the Columbia/Snake system. The water highway significantly reduces rail or highway shipping costs; it takes about 50 hours to get from Lewiston to Portland, Oregon by barge.

Today, about one million tons of wheat and barley are exported through the Port annually. Eleven steamship lines provide containers to move an additional million tons of containerized cargo. With 40 percent of the nation's white wheat traveling through the Port of Portland, much of it passes through the Port of Lewiston on its journey to the coast. The port is served by five tug and barge lines, two U.S. highways, 10 truck lines, and a short-line railroad that connects with the Union Pacific and Burlington Northern railroads. There also are 11 major container companies represented at the Port. Several interstate trucking lines serve the area; containerized shipments relay exports to the coast, enabling the port to ship to some 40 foreign countries in eight major regions of the world. http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h2812.html

[Cottonwood]

Looks like good news for (Economy, Transportation, and Environment):

The city of Boise and a new local railroad partner up.
The state economy could benefit from a plan to build a major shipping hub by the Boise Airport.

Full Article from the Idaho Statesman.com:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/19/1198068/boise-new-local-railroad-partner.html




Here is the picture from the article. Dig the Idaho license plate facade on the second car!


http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2010/05/19/14/0520_local_train.standalone.prod_affiliate.36.jpg
http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2010/05/19/14/0520_local_train.standalone.prod_affiliate.36.jpg

[Cottonwood]

Looks like Sarah Palin is coming to her native state this Friday.


http://www.ktvb.com/news/Sarah-Palin-announces-Bois-stop-94220094.html

by Ty Brennan

KTVB.COM

Posted on May 18, 2010 at 10:26 PM

Updated today at 1:49 PM


BOISE -- Sarah Palin announced Tuesday she's coming to Boise, just four days before the Primary election. The visit is designed to help Republican Vaughn Ward, who is running for the U.S. House of Representatives in a bid to unseat Democrat Walt Minnick.

[Boiseguy]

:previous: :yuck:

[Boise Benchman]

DRILL, BABY DRILL!!! (wink)

[Boisekid]

I can see Russia from my house

[el conquistador]

Bridge to nowhere, and being mayor of a town that became the meth capitol of Alaska under her watch. Legacy, baby! :notacrook:

[CaliforniaKid]

:previous: :yuck:

No argument there.. She is a real ding dong... An embarrassment for Idaho.

[Evo5Boise]

But I would definitely roll around in the hay with her. ;)

[202_Cyclist]

Sarah Palin, how's that 'drill, baby, drill' thing workin' for ya?

When Caribou Barbie was planning to visit CSU Stanislaus, this 'Real American,' demanded a large private jet, among other luxuries:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/apr/14/sarah-palin-contract-speaking-jet-california

[Boise Benchman]

[QUOTE=202_Cyclist;4848028]Sarah Palin, how's that 'drill, baby, drill' thing workin' for ya?

When Caribou Barbie was planning to visit CSU Stanislaus, this 'Real American,' demanded a large private jet, among other luxuries:




You know, I see why this is ridiculous, and I am not a fan of her politics, but to be honest... that sounds "REALLY American" to me. hahaha

Anyone who's news selection is that of TMZ and Entertainment Tonight, watching the newest Jersey Shore and listening to a Justin Bieber/Usher jam would probably DEMAND a Private Jet as a starter request....

It is kinda "REALLY AMERICAN" :P

[Boisekid]

You know development is slow when Sarah Palin gets this much attention...Boise needs to get a tower built dangit! It's been too long :hell: We need something to talk about!!

[BoiseTran]

Yeah, seriously, we really need something else to talk about...

[andyroo]

we could always talk about how cool the giant hole in downtown looks

[el conquistador]

we could always talk about how cool the giant hole in downtown looks

Yup, the rebar is rusting along nicely... :haha:

[Cottonwood]

Here is something new to talk about.

:D Salt Lake City chicks like to come to Boise to enjoy our al fresco lifestyle and drink outside of a restaurant.


http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/21/1200281/nows-a-great-time-to-hit-the-deck.html

Would you like to sit in or out?" The question soon will be a no-brainer in Boise, because with warmer weather comes patio season. There's something about Boise that inspires the al fresco life.

Maybe it's the extended daylight hours (by June the sun doesn't begin to go down until after 10 p.m.), the warm breezy nights or the feeling that if you're on a patio, you could be anywhere in the world. Or maybe it's the fact that in Boise, nearly every restaurant, bar or coffeehouse with a few feet of sidewalk has a patio.

"We love this," said Kristen Maw of Salt Lake City, sitting on the patio at the Falcon Tavern in Downtown Boise last Saturday. "That's why we come here, to ride bikes and eat outside." Maw and Lacey Cluff, both 30, were visiting for a girls' weekend with their Boise friend Andrea Hemmer, also 30.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/21/1200281/nows-a-great-time-to-hit-the-deck.html#ixzz0oZdwe9kW

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Another new restaurant downtown. For some reason a Northwest Tex-Mex restaurant has a strange ring to it.......
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/21/1200268/matador-to-open-craft-beer-events.html
Matador Restaurant and Tequila Bar will take over the spaces formerly occupied by Opa and Mesa Taqueria, 215 and 213 N. 8th St. The spaces were combined to accommodate Matador. It's a family-owned restaurant out of Washington with locations in Seattle, Tacoma and Redmond, and in Portland, Ore.

They serve up creative Tex-Mex fusion. Look for items like blackened ahi and green apple slaw and chipotle baby back ribs - plus a tequila bar. www.matadorrestaurants.com.





Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/05/21/1200268/matador-to-open-craft-beer-events.html#ixzz0oZeVnqRg



+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/starfucker-may-21-neurolux/Content?oid=1607921

Starfucker is performing tonight at Neurolux

[Cottonwood]

Boisecynic, any updates on the Whitewater Park?

[Boisekid]

Al Fresco dining would be awesome this weekend if it wasn't struggling to get above 50 degrees. Ya, how's the whitewater park coming?

[boisecynic]

Cottonwood's wish is my command:

Quinn's Pond down over 20'.
http://imgur.com/Pzzw6.jpg


Cottonwood down! Cottonwood down! Location: DoubleTree Riverside just upstream from the 36th Street Wave. Current flow 1500 CFS (Glenwood Bridge measurement), notice the water in this reach, it's relatively slow and pooled due to the soon to be rebuilt Thurman Mill diversion (aka 36th Street Wave) just downstream (to the right). Before someone jumps to conclusions, this downed tree has nothing to do with the white water park work.
http://imgur.com/OAcW2.jpg

From the rocky Clocktower Peninsula looking west to the levee widening fill work. See the transition between the rocky shore and the vegetation? That's where the water level normally is. Compare that to the size of the bulldozer and giant track hoe. A lot has been done but work seems (to me) painfully slow as they can only get one dump truck in there at a time. Less than a year from now there will be a functioning world class white water feature and a footbridge over to Garden City's Waterfront District.
http://imgur.com/7w6XG.jpg

More coming. Stay tuned!

[Sawtooth]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/158.jpg







http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/116-1.jpg










Downtown along the Boise River. Every excellent downtown must have a river flowing through it.


http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/179.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/215.jpg





















http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/Spring2010/annex/206.jpg



If I can find time to complete sorting through my pictures from the past two months, then the Boise Spring photo thread will be up and running this week.

[CaliforniaKid]

Wow that is crazy..

Beautiful picture. But don't feel to bad, it was freezing cold here in California too. 42 degrees this morning.

[Boisekid]

Nice pics. Can't wait to see the spring thread!

[el conquistador]

Nice pics. Can't wait to see the spring thread!

Yeah, this seems like one of those years where we will go from cold and wet to 90's and too hot in a week's span.... :yuck:

[TonyAnderson]

I always look forward to those seasonal photo threads. I noticed this in the Salt Lake Tribune today (from AP) and thought it worthwhile:


History buffs hope to restore Nampa train depot

The Associated Press
Updated: 05/23/2010 11:32:46 AM MDT

Nampa, Idaho » Preservationists in southwest Idaho are trying to raise $331,000 to restore the Nampa Train Depot, an emblem of the city's railroad history built in 1903.

The Canyon County Historical Society oversees the former station that is now a museum. It announced Thursday the campaign received $20,000 from four different sources, including a $5,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

"Historic buildings are a tangible link to our past," said Wendy Miller, director and curator of the Canyon County Historical Society. "Think of all the people that came through this train station. In the summer, the Farmers Market is hosted in front of the depot and families stage wedding, Christmas and senior portraits with the depot as their setting. It's a beautiful building and truly is the heart of the community."

The group said the restoration will include a wood floor, making the station handicap accessible, plumbing improvements and a new red tile roof. About $16,000 is needed to modernize the 107-year-old electrical system.

Nampa resident Kevin Daniels, a trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, said the depot in the heart of downtown could help develop and revitalize the city center.

http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_15146714?source=rss

[Cottonwood]

Boisecynic, Thanks for the pic updates for the whitewater park.
Sawtooth, Thanks for the mountain and river views.

[Evo5Boise]

Yeah, this seems like one of those years where we will go from cold and wet to 90's and too hot in a week's span.... :yuck:

Yep! Exactly what I was telling a friend yesterday.

[Northernlad]

Wow, those are beautiful pictures. Boise would win in any beauty pageant!