[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/12/15/1916790/perked-up-economy-boise-shows.html


Boise shows post-recession life
By Bill Roberts and Rocky Barker - broberts@idahostatesman.com,
Published: 12/15/11





Better jobs picture: Boise ranked 11th among the nation’s 100 largest metro areas in employment growth between the second and third quarters, according to a study by the Brookings Institution. The region’s employment grew by 1 percent, compared with 0.1 percent nationally.

More employment in the region: “Boise’s jobs recovery has been pretty broad-based across sectors,” said Mark Muro, a policy director Brookings. “All major segments of the economy except leisure and hospitality have added jobs since the region hit (its) trough — even construction.”

Output is on the rise, too: The region’s economic output rose by 0.6 percent, slightly behind the national average but enough to rank the region 34th among large metros, according to the Brookings’ Mountain Monitor, a quarterly look at the Intermountain West.

[BoiseTran]

I really like reading the phrase "post-recession." So glad to hear Boise is showing signs of a particularly healthy recovery.

A bit off-topic, but I was looking through some old photos a friend had taken when we were out hiking around in the early-Summer of '08. I thought this one was really nice. Our skyline isn't big, but it's wonderful just the same. And I'm rooting for a 20-floor tower to spring up somewhere in the middle there. :P

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-ash1/v289/13/73/619355480/n619355480_3130951_1418.jpg

[Cottonwood]

Nice photo! I have always felt that even though our skyline isn't huge, we have more than enough beauty and nature in and around our city to make up for it. Try living in a city with a larger skyline but with a sick and polluted river and it is enough to make you sad:( More open space protected in the Foothills!

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/12/16/1918392/a-holiday-gift-for-boiseharrison.html


The Land Trust of the Treasure Valley raises the $580,000 needed to buy Harrison Hollow in the Boise Foothills
BY CYNTHIA SEWELL - csewell@idahostatesman.com
BY CYNTHIA SEWELL Idaho Statesman
Published: 12/16/11

[Reachforthesky]

Heading to Boise tomorrow to go see Utah state play in the potato bowl! Any ideas for things to check out after the game?

[Sawtooth]

Heading to Boise tomorrow to go see Utah state play in the potato bowl! Any ideas for things to check out after the game?

By the time the game is over it will be dark and cold. If we had more snow you could night ski up at Bogus but you could check out the Winter Garden Aglow at the Botanical gardens out Warm Springs Ave. http://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=feature.display&feature_id=40 The Boise Philharmonic will be performing Handel's Messiah tonight at the opposite end of campus from the stadium in the Morrison Center.

Downtown is always hopping Saturday nights, a large amount of restaurants, clubs/pubs, live music; when in Boise do as the Boiseans do on a cold winters night which also includes night skiing, but where's the damn snow!!

[City Of Trees]

By the time the game is over it will be dark and cold. If we had more snow you could night ski up at Bogus but you could check out the Winter Garden Aglow at the Botanical gardens out Warm Springs Ave. http://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=feature.display&feature_id=40 The Boise Philharmonic will be performing Handel's Messiah tonight at the opposite end of campus from the stadium in the Morrison Center.

Downtown is always hopping Saturday nights, a large amount of restaurants, clubs/pubs, live music; when in Boise do as the Boiseans do on a cold winters night which also includes night skiing, but where's the damn snow!!Now that there is finally a quad on Chair 3, I'm curious if night skiing at Bogus will see an bigger uptick.

[Visualize]

Investors sought for Boise condo project
BY SANDRA FORESTER - sforester@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2011 Idaho Statesman
Published: 12/17/11

Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/12/17/1919448/investors-sought-for-condo-project.html#ixzz1gxXvBVDC

Board members of Boise’s urban-renewal agency want to see potential financial partners soon for River 8.

Developer Steve Hosac told the Idaho Statesman that he’s working on the Capital City Development Corp.’s request.

River 8 is a mixed-use residential condo project on land the agency owns between 8th and 9th streets north of River Downtown. It would include about 130 condos in three towers, 180 parking spots on two levels and 6,000 square feet of retail on the ground floor.

The building schedule calls for financial commitments to be sealed by late summer and construction of the first phase to begin by June 2013. Two other phases would start in 2015 and 2017, with the project being completed in 2018.

Hosac, who developed the nearby CitySide Lofts at 13th and Myrtle streets, says the River 8 project could hit the market at just the right time for new Downtown condos. “There’s been quite a bit of improvement out there,” he said. “The economy is headed in a better direction. I think the bottom’s behind us.”

[Cottonwood]

This would be a nice companion to our grand Morrison Center for the Performing Arts at BSU/downtown. The first question that popped into my head was, why not build at JUMP? The perfoming arts are huge in this town, so this is exciting news.



http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/12/21/1925201/feasibility-study-will-explore.html#storylink=latest

Feasibility study will explore possibility of new Boise performing arts venue
Statesman staff - Idaho Statesman
Statesman staff Idaho Statesman
Published: 12/21/11

Esther Simplot, the city of Boise, the Greater Boise Auditorium District and Oppenheimer Development Corp. will collaborate on a study of the viability of a new mid-sized performing arts venue.

The study will explore the feasibility of an 800- to 1,000-seat facility by examining existing and potential future market conditions, including the number and size of local events, industry trends, comparable facilities, and market demand characteristics specific to the Boise area.

If the study concludes a venue of that size could be successful, a portion of the existing Boise Centre convention facility could be repurposed as a possible location, but only following the expansion of convention facilities.
Oppenheimer Development Corp. will assist Simplot, the city and the district in exploring this potential public-private partnership.

The cost of the proposed study will be split equally between Simplot, the City of Boise and the District.

[Cottonwood]

A little of topic cause it is pretty quiet in the forum this week. Local and regional music lovers have a Xmas present to look forward to in March. Events like this go hand in hand with a growing and evolving city such as our beautiful little artistic spot on the map.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!


www.Treefortmusicfest.com


http://treefortmusicfest.com/idahoans-gone-wild/

IDAHO. With our vast wilderness areas and mountain ranges, clean rivers and lakes, open prairies and big skies, this big little state in the NW can often feel like living on the frontier of a young developing nation — and it’s exciting times on the frontier. Here in Boise, the capitol city, in the midst of a vibrant downtown scene of young professionals, mom-and-pop local businesses, bars and nightclubs, late night pizza joints, college town energy, and progressive minded city planning — there’s a music, dance, theater and arts scene with a fresh, vibrant outlook producing ever-growing excitement here in Boise as well as from eyes and ears outside of the Treasure Valley.

Boise has for years received accolades for being a great place to live and raise a family, but in recent years it’s been getting increased attention as a hot spot for young up-and-coming artists. It’s in this spirit, that we introduce you to the inaugural TREEFORT MUSIC FEST. Conceived as an extension of the current momentum in the Boise music scene and art scene at large, our vision is that Treefort will provide the opportunity for Boise to play host to the national and regional music scenes while showcasing a lot of our own up-and-coming talent as well.


Source: http://treefortmusicfest.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Idaho-Trees.jpg
http://treefortmusicfest.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Idaho-Trees.jpg

[Blondearrow26]

Does anyone have any idea how the Dona Larsen Park project is going? Some pictures would be nice. It should be a one of a kind sports facility that has two stadiums softball/football/track and field.

[boisecynic]

Does anyone have any idea how the Dona Larsen Park project is going? Some pictures would be nice. It should be a one of a kind sports facility that has two stadiums softball/football/track and field.

Drove by there a couple of days ago, just site work-- grading and leveling and some footing work. Nothing worth taking pictures of yet.

[Hawk]

Drove by there a couple of days ago, just site work-- grading and leveling and some footing work. Nothing worth taking pictures of yet.

That's the same story as the Whole Food's site. But they have got like 3 walls up now, and still working on them.

[boisecynic]

JUMP to get jump started in January with demolition of what I call Esther's Warehouse. Historic preservationists unlikely to protest because the building isn't cute and cuddly. :notacrook:

More at the Statesman: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/12/23/1927168/demolition-in-january-will-signal.html

[isangpogi]

Merry Christmas! I'm wishing for JUMP and Zions Bank (the 20+ floor version) to get started this year!

[Cottonwood]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/CityDesk/archives/2011/12/26/boise-parking-meters-to-get-smarter

Boise Parking Meters to Get Smarter
Posted by Andrew Crisp


http://www.boiseweekly.com/binary/c330/1324577244-luke-ii.jpg


Starting in March 2012, the Capital City Development Corporation, along with city officials, will launch a pilot program for Boise's next generation of parking meters. They're "modern meters," said Max Clark, CCDC's parking and facilities director.

“We want to get them out in the field for a three-month period of time, and try to make it as realistic as we can for the real product,” said Clark.

The new meters will allow for payment with debit, credit, gift and so-called "smart" parking cards, as well as the coins we're used to carrying by the dozen. The meters also sport battery packs, recharged by solar power. When there's not much sun, the meters will switch to their batteries.

[Hawk]

:previous: I really like the idea, and hope they go through with the new parking meters. Plus, I hope they make it one parking meter per block like they have it in Portland.

[GrandTeton]

:previous: Concerning the Treefort music festival, there was a little article in the Seattle Weekly speaking very highly of the developing Boise music scene.

"There's no question that Boise's putting out more than its share of exciting music these days. Youth Lagoon's The Year of Hibernation is topping year-end lists left and right, and Brother Dan's The Orb has been in heavy rotation in my space for months, just to name a couple. Earlier this year, our friend Eric Gilbert- a keyboardist and vocalist for another great Boise concern, Finn Riggins- put together a list, which ran in this space, of Boise bands that are creating quite a stir in southern Idaho and the great northwest."

Boise is becoming quite the hip city! Great for Boise.

[eastidaho]

:previous:
It looks like my March visit will miss Treefort by one week. :(

Photo request...construction update of the apartments on Lincoln.

Not the most exciting for many of you, but I lived where the parking structure now stands. At the time, you Boise forumers gave me flak for lamenting the loss of affordable apartments for parking. However, now that more of the long term residential plans are being realized, I am excited. IMO it is the ideal location for any 18-22 yr old Idaho native. No campus parking issues, free public transportation to downtown, access to the riverbelt, the stadium and arena, great university, the list goes on. :yes:

[boiseaninexile]

A little slow on this board lately. Anyway, I haven't seen anything posted re: Zonda USA lately. Here is a video from KTVB back in November saying that Zonda will locate headquarters and manufacturing in the valley ASAP:

http://www.ktvb.com/home/Chinese-bus-company-bringing-jobs-to-Idaho--134432258.html

Also, parent company in China, Zhongda, is huge (7,000 employees and billions in sales) and they signed agreements to expand their US and global ops further. Zonda USA (to be headquartered in the Boise MSA along with manufacturing facilities) was also given exclusive rights for all global sales, service, and manufacturing. These were signed on December 19th.

http://zondausa.com/Zonda_USA/News/Entries/2011/12/19_Agreements_Signed_in_China.html

This could be huge for the Boise area, especially with the economy already gaining traction.

Hope you all have a Happy New Year!

[BoiseAirport]

The potential is certainly huge. It's really exciting to think about what might become of this. It's great to not just have a HQ here, but also manufacturing as well. :)

As an unrelated side note, I really want to see some more ethnic diversity here, particularly in the Asian population. I frequently go to Vancouver, BC, and it's so cool being in a place with so much ethnic diversity -- the cultures all interacting with each other, the amazing authentic restaurants with exotic items you've never tried before, it's just all really cool to have, IMO. It's why I think the large Basque population is one of the neatest things about Boise.

[Hawk]

The potential is certainly huge. It's really exciting to think about what might become of this. It's great to not just have a HQ here, but also manufacturing as well. :)

As an unrelated side note, I really want to see some more ethnic diversity here, particularly in the Asian population. I frequently go to Vancouver, BC, and it's so cool being in a place with so much ethnic diversity -- the cultures all interacting with each other, the amazing authentic restaurants with exotic items you've never tried before, it's just all really cool to have, IMO. It's why I think the large Basque population is one of the neatest things about Boise.

totally agree with you BA... now if we can get a china town back like we had before they tore it down.

[Sawtooth]

:dj

[boisecynic]

2012 CCDC Streetscape plan for downtown (large PDF)

http://www.cityofboise.org/city_clerk/092711/ccdc.pdf

[City Of Trees]

2012 CCDC Streetscape plan for downtown (large PDF)

http://www.cityofboise.org/city_clerk/092711/ccdc.pdfInteresting decision to make 8th Street between Idaho and Bannock like it is to the south. Long ago, Bannock used to be a one-way eastbound street, serving as a semi-couplet with Jefferson. The reason why it was made two-way (and not Jefferson) was to allow northbound Capitol traffic to keep going north on 8th by turning left onto Bannock, instead of trying to wind through the Capitol split onto Jefferson and then to 8th.

This plan would seem to make that Capitol to 8th transition more difficult, but then again, there's nowhere near enough traffic to warrant three lanes on that part, and I and many other drivers prefer to just bash through Jefferson anyway. Here, I could go on a rant on how the directions of Bannock/Jefferson/State should be changed, but I think I'll save that one for the transportation thread some day. :)

[Hawk]

i'm loving the new streetscapes it's making the downtown area so much better. it's pleasing to look at the sidewalks and not see tons of cracks and bumps in them.

[Sawtooth]

the first two are looking straight into the sun explaining the bleached effect.


http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/030-2.jpg








http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/029-3.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/034-2.jpg








http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/031-1.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/032-2.jpg











New Years Eve snow on Bogus. Ann Morrison Park

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/024-1.jpg

[trekkerguy]

Welp, after living in beautiful Boise for the last ten years my girlfriend and I are leaving for Florida tomorrow night.

I've loved Boise, will miss it, and definitely plan to come back to visit. Will need to come see my adoptive Broncos on the blue-turf(though I'm gunna love seeing all my pro-hometeams down in FL) :cool:

I've only been on these forums for a brief time but have loved the info and characters here and will continue to check in, I hope this city continues it's positive urban growth toward world class!


*off to the sunshine* :notacrook:

[Cottonwood]

Thanks Sawtooth.

trekkerguy, good luck with your move to Florida! Check in on us, it's always a good time.



http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/03/1938126/its-official-10-barrel-brewing.html#storylink=latest
It’s official: 10 Barrel Brewing to open brewpub at 9th and Bannock this summer
By Patrick Orr Idaho Statesman
Published: 01/03/12

The new year brings good news for Treasure Valley craft beer lovers — Bend-based 10 Barrel Brewing will open a new brewpub in Downtown Boise next summer.
The owners of 10 Barrel Brewing had been talking with State of Idaho officials for several months about leasing a building at 9th and Bannock streets owned by the Department of Lands.
10 Barrel owners signed the lease last month and work is expected to begin soon to retrofit the building for a brewing system and restaurant equipment. The work is expected to be completed by summer.


“Joining an up and coming brew scene in Boise will allow me to really showcase my talents in front of a larger audience,” Kelso said in a press release issued by 10 Barrel Brewing Monday to formally announce the opening of the Boise brewpub.
10 Barrel partner Garret Wales told the Idaho Statesman in September that he and the rest of the company have been looking at the Boise market for a while and feel the city would be a good fit.


Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/03/1938126/its-official-10-barrel-brewing.html#storylink=latest#storylink=cpy

[eastidaho]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/8thStreet/034-2.jpg


Thank you Sawtooth!!! I appreciate that you braved the cold. A definite upgrade in density along that street. Boise State is movin' and shakin'...

[GrandTeton]

Now if Boise could get something similar of that density built elsewhere like the Bench or the Northend, we'd be in business! :tup:

[alphawolf]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/03/1938126/its-official-10-barrel-brewing.html#storylink=latest
It’s official: 10 Barrel Brewing to open brewpub at 9th and Bannock this summer
By Patrick Orr Idaho Statesman
Published: 01/03/12

The new year brings good news for Treasure Valley craft beer lovers — Bend-based 10 Barrel Brewing will open a new brewpub in Downtown Boise next summer.
The owners of 10 Barrel Brewing had been talking with State of Idaho officials for several months about leasing a building at 9th and Bannock streets owned by the Department of Lands.
10 Barrel owners signed the lease last month and work is expected to begin soon to retrofit the building for a brewing system and restaurant equipment. The work is expected to be completed by summer.


“Joining an up and coming brew scene in Boise will allow me to really showcase my talents in front of a larger audience,” Kelso said in a press release issued by 10 Barrel Brewing Monday to formally announce the opening of the Boise brewpub.
10 Barrel partner Garret Wales told the Idaho Statesman in September that he and the rest of the company have been looking at the Boise market for a while and feel the city would be a good fit.


Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/03/1938126/its-official-10-barrel-brewing.html#storylink=latest#storylink=cpy

Department of Lands owned building at 9th and Bannock doesn't ring a bell. Maybe Jefferson Place at 350 9th St. is what they're talking about.
Definitely a nice location though.

[isangpogi]

Department of Lands owned building at 9th and Bannock doesn't ring a bell. Maybe Jefferson Place at 350 9th St. is what they're talking about.
Definitely a nice location though.

http://www.ktvb.com/news/business/New-brewery-to-move-in-downtown-136628548.html

KTVB has a picture of the property being leased. Several buildings in that area are owned by the state. I used to work in the Garro Bldg. just west of the Hoff and it too was owned by the Dept. of Lands. The owner of the company I worked for at the time said the state bought up property around the Capitol to keep the area well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing, similar to how the LDS church owns much of the property surrounding Temple Square in Salt Lake.

[Cottonwood]

Since we are on the topic of beer and brew pubs...



http://www.ktvb.com/news/business/Sockeye-Brewery-expansion-underway-136628773.html

Sockeye Brewery expansion underway

KTVB.COM
Posted on January 3, 2012 at 5:39 PM
Updated Tuesday, Jan 3 at 7:37 PM

BOISE -- Expansion is underway for local brewery Sockeye. Head brewer Josh King says the first phase of ground breaking started Tuesday on the new facility near Fairview and Cloverdale.

The first phase is building a new brewery which will help Sockeye produce more than double the current capacity they have at their brewpub on Cole Road.

King says demand for Sockeye beer is greater than production right now.

That first phase is expected to be completed by March or April. Sockeye plans to hire new employees.

In phase two the company plans to open a new restaurant.

[Cottonwood]

Parkcenter Boulevard developments:

http://www.cityofboise.org/Departments/PDS/PDF/Hearings/Planning%20&%20Zoning%20Commission/Legals/2012/02-06-12_legal.pdf

CUP11-00103 & CVA11-00056 / The Levie Group
Conditional use permit for a 4-story mixed use building to include 68 residential units, 5 live work units and 5,250 square feet of retail space. A height exception, parking reduction, and variances from the front and street-side setbacks, are included in this request. The 1.75 acre site is located at 916 E. Park Boulevard in an R-OD (Residential Office with Design Review) zone. Josh Johnson




http://www.cityofboise.org/Departments/PDS/PDF/Hearings/Planning%20&%20Zoning%20Commission/Legals/2012/02-13-12_Legal.pdf

PUD11-00005 & CFH11-00034 / 5B Sawtooth Peaks, LLC
Conditional use permit for a 288-unit planned residential development on 12.66 acres located at 501 E. Parkcenter Boulevard in L-OD (Limited Office with Design Review), R-1C (Single Family Residential-8 DU/Acre) and R-1B (Single Family Residential-4.8 DU/Acre) zones. A general exception to apply the dimensional standards of the L-OD zone (including height) to the entire property, a use exception to allow a coffee shop, and a Boise River System permit are included in the request. Cody Riddle

[City Of Trees]

916 Park was the location of a failed project that the East End Neighborhood association helped to shoot down. 501 ParkCenter was where that huge grovee of cottonwoods used to be, until they were cut down for yet another failed project, I wonder how the new projects will vary from the old ones.

[Cottonwood]

and more beer/tap house news. :drunk:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/06/1941209/need-a-beer-taphouse-will-have.html
Deeds: Need a beer? Taphouse will have you covered
Copyright: © 2011 Idaho Statesman


There’s no such thing as too much beer. That’s the philosophy behind The Taphouse, a 44-tap brewpub planning to open in February in the former Lobby space at 760 W. Main St. Naturally, I concur — along with nine out of 10 other American males. The theory soon will be tested as Downtown Boise becomes craft-brew heaven.

The Taphouse will focus on Northwest and Idaho beers, Forde says, rotating many regularly.

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/06/1941184/traffic-box-art-turns-downtown.html

Traffic Box Art turns Downtown Boise into a gallery
New map makes it easy to tour the city’s growing collection -
Idaho Statesman
Copyright: © 2012 Idaho Statesman
Published: 01/06/12

If you need proof that Boise is a creative city, look no further than the nearest Downtown street corner.

It’s all thanks to a public art project that turns street corners and traffic corridors into ad hoc galleries, filled with interesting, eclectic visual art

[City Of Trees]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/06/1941184/traffic-box-art-turns-downtown.html

Traffic Box Art turns Downtown Boise into a gallery
New map makes it easy to tour the city’s growing collection -
Idaho Statesman
Copyright: © 2012 Idaho Statesman
Published: 01/06/12

If you need proof that Boise is a creative city, look no further than the nearest Downtown street corner.

It’s all thanks to a public art project that turns street corners and traffic corridors into ad hoc galleries, filled with interesting, eclectic visual artI'm surprised that it took this long for the Statesman to do an article on them.

[BoiseAirport]

Article in the Statesman about recent housing developments near downtown and Boise State.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/09/1945177/developers-eye-housing-near-boise.html

http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2012/01/08/23/02/JlNz.St.36.jpg

And with that, I'm off to Louisville, Kentucky to visit family. I really enjoy visiting Louisville, it somehow oddly reminds me of Boise, if Boise were located in the Eastern US. Don't really know why, it just kind of does. I'll be back in a week, and then Spring semester starts at Boise State! :)

[City Of Trees]

Article in the Statesman about recent housing developments near downtown and Boise State.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/09/1945177/developers-eye-housing-near-boise.html

http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2012/01/08/23/02/JlNz.St.36.jpg

And with that, I'm off to Louisville, Kentucky to visit family. I really enjoy visiting Louisville, it somehow oddly reminds me of Boise, if Boise were located in the Eastern US. Don't really know why, it just kind of does. I'll be back in a week, and then Spring semester starts at Boise State! :)I bet you're happy with the Big East move if it means BSU will get to play at Louisville someday!

[Cottonwood]

Article in the Statesman about recent housing developments near downtown and Boise State.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/09/1945177/developers-eye-housing-near-boise.html


http://media.idahostatesman.com/smedia/2012/01/08/23/02/JlNz.St.36.jpg




This is what I am glad to see in the article:

It is no coincidence that the first post-recession wave of large Boise housing projects are for high-density, multifamily units near Boise State and Downtown, said David Wali with Colliers International real estate brokerage firm.
“Across the country,” he said, “multifamily construction is ahead of the curve in almost every community


Demand for housing near Boise State and Downtown Boise is growing, too.

All three projects’ applications state they are geared toward Boise State students or professionals working Downtown







And of course this from the article.....Boise has such a great and enviable asset regarding the river and our parks system:


The 22-mile Greenbelt that parallels the river, several city parks and the new whitewater recreation park make it a prime recreation destination. That means the apartments will be close to places where people work and play.
“When you are on the Greenbelt, it is amazing how close things are,” Wali said. Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/09/1945177/developers-eye-housing-near-boise.html#storylink=cpy

[City Of Trees]

I still wish that someone would build some apartments in the heart of downtown, though. These projects, while very nice and needed, would be on the outskirts of downtown in its broadest definition, and even then, I would not consider the 501 ParkCenter project in downtown.

The Greenbelt is a valuable asset to make these projects accessible via alternate transportation, however.

[GrandTeton]

:previous: Isn't there a proposal for apartments in the old Macy's building?

I'm glad Boise is keeping up to date with new urbanism and pushing for infill.

I think once Boise expands its public transit, downtown will see bigger residential projects. Motivation for living an urban lifestyle is to not rely on a car, which can be difficult in Boise when you're in a time crunch.

[boiseaninexile]

I am excited about the proposed projects on the outskirts of downtown. I really do wish we would see some more high-density/vertical development, but with Zion's Bank and JUMP maybe it will happen sooner rather than later.

Below is a link to a Statesman story about St. Al's re-developing Mercy and adding a maternity center. Add these to the development of St. Luke's new Nampa hospital out by the Costco, and the possibility of Zonda USA locating somewhere in the middle of Boise's MSA (?) and we could see significant building activity and job creation very soon. Though this is outside downtown by a long way, it will make Boise even more attractive and hopefully will draw in more significant projects through the area, including in the downtown core.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/10/1947137/saint-als-puts-335-million-to.html#storylink=latest

[Cottonwood]

:previous:It is really looking up for the valley this year with all of the construction activity on tap in downtown and the rest of the city and valley, software companies expanding, new companies relocating here, downtown booming with what seems like weekly news on new businesses/eateries opening up, an industrial building boom in Nampa, the Whitewater Park and progress of even more new parks by the river, BSU's never ending expansions, the 30th Street Extension, Ron Paul winning the Idaho straw poll last week, blah blah blah. History has proven that Boise and Idaho always roar back after a national recession.

[boisecynic]

Sandra Forester article regarding new apartments on 13th between State and Washington:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/12/1949526/new-downtown-boise-apartments.html

Here's my observations;

Forester does a pretty good job but leaves out some very important aspects and gets at least one completely wrong. The address of that property may have been 517 N 13th at one time but it's not now. The address is 1305 W Washington, the same as the White Savage Apartments. The lots must have been consolidated. Source: Ada County Assessor's site. Parcel search for R1013008333. The 411 on that lot size is .28 acres which = 12,200 sf or lot dimensions of about 120 x 100 which jives.

Forester leaves out the parking and setback variance hoops the developer had to jump through. Even the garbage collection issue went through some haggling.

Anyway, there is obviously demand for this kind of housing. City officials seem to talk endlessly about work force housing. Yet when it comes down to it, variances and conditional use permits have to be pulled. Parking especially can be a deal killer.

[Hawk]

Sandra Forester article regarding new apartments on 13th between State and Washington:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/12/1949526/new-downtown-boise-apartments.html

Here's my observations;

Forester does a pretty good job but leaves out some very important aspects and gets at least one completely wrong. The address of that property may have been 517 N 13th at one time but it's not now. The address is 1305 W Washington, the same as the White Savage Apartments. The lots must have been consolidated. Source: Ada County Assessor's site. Parcel search for R1013008333. The 411 on that lot size is .28 acres which = 12,200 sf or lot dimensions of about 120 x 100 which jives.

Forester leaves out the parking and setback variance hoops the developer had to jump through. Even the garbage collection issue went through some haggling.

Anyway, there is obviously demand for this kind of housing. City officials seem to talk endlessly about work force housing. Yet when it comes down to it, variances and conditional use permits have to be pulled. Parking especially can be a deal killer.

those new white savage apartments filled up really fast. from the looks of it there's like only two apartments that are still vacant in the new building.

[el conquistador]

Note these were taken from a BlackBerry and an iPhone, so the quality isn't fab. Enjoy! :D

Night shots from the top of the 8th Street garage before Christmas

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo.jpg?t=1326421422

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo8.jpg?t=1326421421

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo7.jpg?t=1326421413

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo6.jpg?t=1326421412

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo2.jpg?t=1326421400

Top of Camel's Back:

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo4.jpg?t=1326421405

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/photo5.jpg?t=1326421406

Roof of my place of employment. :)

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00008-20110421-1421-Copy.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00007-20110421-1421.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00006-20110421-1420.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00005-20110421-1419.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00004-20110421-1418-Copy.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00003-20110421-1418-Copy-1.jpg

Now maybe this will get Boisebro off my back. LEAVE ME ALONE BOISEBRO!!!

[BoiseAirport]

When will this drought end?! WHEN WILL IT END?!?! *grabs shoulders and shakes repeatedly*

I just got back into Boise and it was so depressing seeing it from the air... I gor terribly thirsty looking at how brown and dry the valley is right now. :(

I'm on my phone so when I get back to my computer, I'll respond to your awesome pics el conquistador!

[eastidaho]

Roof of my place of employment. :)

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00008-20110421-1421-Copy.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll140/beepnz/IMG00003-20110421-1418-Copy-1.jpg

Now maybe this will get Boisebro off my back. LEAVE ME ALONE BOISEBRO!!!

Awesome angles that I have never seen before. I really enjoyed the two shots I copied above. I am happy that Boisebro kept on you. You have been holding out. :)

Thanks for sharing.

[Hawk]

Great Pics El! why'd it take you so long? :P

----------------------

Does anyone know why Wholes Foods is going to be taking another year to be completed instead of 2012 like they were saying? they've already got like i believe 3 walls up, and are starting on walgreens. I just don't see what would set them back so long.

[Cottonwood]

Does anyone know why Whole Foods is going to be taking another year to be completed instead of 2012 like they were saying? they've already got like i believe 3 walls up, and are starting on walgreens. I just don't see what would set them back so long.

The spokesman for WF said in the news a few weeks ago that there are a lot of details going into the new Boise store which will result in taking longer to construct.

[Cottonwood]

This news is obvious.......


http://www.ktvb.com/home/Boise-named-one-of-the-healthiest-cities-in-nation-137383808.html

Boise named one of the healthiest cities in nation

KTVB.COM
Posted on January 15, 2012 at 1:14 PM

Updated yesterday at 11:04 AM

BOISE -- The City of Trees is home to plenty of healthy activities, food and people. Now, it's home to a new title: one of the healthiest cities in America.

Men's Health and Women's Health magazines teamed up to do a survey of 100 cities across the country. Women's Health puts Boise as the number four healthiest city in the nation for women while Men's Health ranks the city as number five on its list for men.

Men's Health also mentioned Boise residents' predilection for growing their own food in places like community gardens as a factor that helped cultivate the city's high place on the list. They listed the benefits of exercise, social interaction with fellow gardeners and, of course, the fresh food.

The survey looked at health factors in 35 categories, ranging from air quality, exercise, employment and disease and mental health rates. Statistics came from sources like the CDC, the FBI and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

[City Of Trees]

This news is obvious.......


http://www.ktvb.com/home/Boise-named-one-of-the-healthiest-cities-in-nation-137383808.html

Boise named one of the healthiest cities in nation

KTVB.COM
Posted on January 15, 2012 at 1:14 PM

Updated yesterday at 11:04 AM

BOISE -- The City of Trees is home to plenty of healthy activities, food and people. Now, it's home to a new title: one of the healthiest cities in America.

Men's Health and Women's Health magazines teamed up to do a survey of 100 cities across the country. Women's Health puts Boise as the number four healthiest city in the nation for women while Men's Health ranks the city as number five on its list for men.

Men's Health also mentioned Boise residents' predilection for growing their own food in places like community gardens as a factor that helped cultivate the city's high place on the list. They listed the benefits of exercise, social interaction with fellow gardeners and, of course, the fresh food.

The survey looked at health factors in 35 categories, ranging from air quality, exercise, employment and disease and mental health rates. Statistics came from sources like the CDC, the FBI and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.What always fascinates me about these lists is that, with a few exceptions here and there, the healthiest cities come from the West and Northeast, while the unhealthiest cities come from the South and Midwest. It just goes to show you some of the regional diversity this country has.

[BoiseAirport]

Here's a fun fact I didn't know until today...

Did you know that Boise was considered a candidate city for a Canadian Football League team when the CFL was expanding in the United States back in the early 1990s?

The original vision was 10 Canadian teams and 10 American teams, with the American teams being located in cities close to the border without NFL teams (Portland, Milwaukee, Hartford, Rochester, Syracuse were also considered). The actual expansion ended up being totally opposite, with most of the teams being in the central and southern US. The closest team to Canada was Baltimore. A Boise CFL team probably wouldn't have lasted for more than a couple years as the expansion ended up being a mixed bag, and it was scrapped after a few years. But still, interesting to think it would've been Boise's first major professional sports team.

[Cottonwood]

Finally Snow!!!!!
It is funny that all of the vehicles I saw in wrecks this morning during my commute were big SUV's lol. One example, Escalade meets city bus and they make out scrunched together in the grass median on Vista Ave.

[BoiseTran]

Haha, the most important part of snow driving--being able to STOP. Big SUVs are no better at this than any other car.

So good to know that Boise, and Bogus, are finally getting some snow.

[BoiseAirport]

SNOOOOW!!!!!

It finally feels like Winter is here!!

[Sawtooth]

I was downtown earlier at the snow for Bogus party being held at the Basque Block which Curtis Stigers is headlining. Good times and good local beer.

Tomorrow is the day.

[Hawk]

I was very pleased:banana: when i looked out and saw all the snow falling. But when it came time to shovel the sidewalk I had gotten a bit annoyed because just about a half an hour later i had to redo the the sidewalk. :hell:

[BoiseTran]

Some relatively big news for the Garden City area... The vacant building at the northwest corner of Chinden and Glenwood is being turned into a concert/other events venue with a 2200 person capacity. Here's a link to the story at KTVB:

http://www.ktvb.com/home/Get-ready-to-rock-Garden-City-is-getting-a-concert-venue-137731853.html

I know this location was a failed "thrift department store" and before that a grocery store called "Max Foods" (or something; I barely remember it, since I was probably still watching Barney the Purple Dinosaur when it closed). In any case, great news for Garden City. Hopefully the project will find success.

[BoiseAirport]

Also, the Boise Music Festival is moving to the Fairgrounds this year.

My reaction: Ugh.

Just throwing some ideas out... has there ever been a proposal to create a fenced in area similar to the fairgrounds at Ann Morrison? There has to be some financially sustainable way to hold a major yearly festival there. Maybe somehow find a way of combining the Western Idaho Fair with the Boise Music Festival...

I am just so nostalgic for the Boise River Festival. That really was, in my opinion, one of the crown jewels of the city. I was really hoping the Boise Music Festival could turn into something similar, but with it moving away from the core of the city to the fairgrounds with hopes of downsizing... I just don't see it.

[Cottonwood]

Also, the Boise Music Festival is moving to the Fairgrounds this year.

My reaction: Ugh.

Just throwing some ideas out... has there ever been a proposal to create a fenced in area similar to the fairgrounds at Ann Morrison? There has to be some financially sustainable way to hold a major yearly festival there. Maybe somehow find a way of combining the Western Idaho Fair with the Boise Music Festival...

I am just so nostalgic for the Boise River Festival. That really was, in my opinion, one of the crown jewels of the city. I was really hoping the Boise Music Festival could turn into something similar, but with it moving away from the core of the city to the fairgrounds with hopes of downsizing... I just don't see it.


I kind of felt the same way when I read they were moving the Music Fest, but then Ann Morrison usually has some event going on a lot of weekends during the warm months. Regarding the fence, are you thinking a temp one while the event takes place or a permanent fence? At least the minor league Garden City police department (cough) can hide out and bust people as they leave the fairgrounds/Music Fest and create some revenue for their little strip of a city.

[Chaisem]

Every year Boise Pride holds their festival in Ann Morrison Park for about 5000 with a fenced area and beer garden... there is no reason the Boise Music Festival could not do the same on a much larger scale.

[Evo5Boise]

Also, the Boise Music Festival is moving to the Fairgrounds this year.

My reaction: Ugh.

Just throwing some ideas out... has there ever been a proposal to create a fenced in area similar to the fairgrounds at Ann Morrison? There has to be some financially sustainable way to hold a major yearly festival there. Maybe somehow find a way of combining the Western Idaho Fair with the Boise Music Festival...

I am just so nostalgic for the Boise River Festival. That really was, in my opinion, one of the crown jewels of the city. I was really hoping the Boise Music Festival could turn into something similar, but with it moving away from the core of the city to the fairgrounds with hopes of downsizing... I just don't see it.

I think many of us long for the days of the Boise River Festival. Those were amazing. The firework display was incredible. It really is sad that never sustained any longevity.

[Hawk]

I think many of us long for the days of the Boise River Festival. Those were amazing. The firework display was incredible. It really is sad that never sustained any longevity.

So do I Evo, the boise river festival fireworks work 10 times better then the ones that are held every year in the same place for the 4th of july. I also miss the carnival rides that i believe were once put up where JUMP is now going. then didn't they move it to the parking lot of the bronco stadium? it's such a shame that no one has considered bringing it back.

[Visualize]

Edit: Decided to move the post to the JUMP thread instead.

[Sawtooth]

!!

[trekkerguy]

SNOOOOW!!!!!

It finally feels like Winter is here!!

Sooooo glad it waited till I was gone before snowing :cool: 75 and sunny!

[Cottonwood]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/plans-to-turn-macys-building-into-housing-moving-forward/Content?oid=2590140

Plans to Turn Macy's Building Into Housing Moving Forward
Project to be put out to bid to finalize cost.
by George Prentice

"Surprised" and "excited." Those were the reactions last November when plans were first unveiled to turn the former Macy's building, vacant since March 2010, into affordable housing. However not much has been heard about the project since.

But Citydesk has learned that a team of architects and designers from Northwest Real Estate Capital Corporation, a nonprofit that specializes in affordable-housing management, is putting final touches on blueprints, in preparation for putting the project out to bid. Then, planners said, they'll be able to get a clearer picture of how much the major construction project might cost.

In fact, at least one person familiar with the project, Dave Wali, a broker with Colliers International, said he's pretty confident that the redevelopment will become reality sooner than later.

[el conquistador]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/plans-to-turn-macys-building-into-housing-moving-forward/Content?oid=2590140

Plans to Turn Macy's Building Into Housing Moving Forward
Project to be put out to bid to finalize cost.
by George Prentice

"Surprised" and "excited." Those were the reactions last November when plans were first unveiled to turn the former Macy's building, vacant since March 2010, into affordable housing. However not much has been heard about the project since.

But Citydesk has learned that a team of architects and designers from Northwest Real Estate Capital Corporation, a nonprofit that specializes in affordable-housing management, is putting final touches on blueprints, in preparation for putting the project out to bid. Then, planners said, they'll be able to get a clearer picture of how much the major construction project might cost.

In fact, at least one person familiar with the project, Dave Wali, a broker with Colliers International, said he's pretty confident that the redevelopment will become reality sooner than later.
I hope so, would love to see that space occupied!

[boisecynic]

WW Park Update

Boise River returned to its channel after running thru Quinns Pond for the last 2.5 months. The new low head dam with pneumatic wave shapers is complete and the dangerous hydraulic created by the old dam is gone for good. Levee repair is underway. Sorry for poor cell phone quality pics. 3 more pics at: http://www.facebook.com/neefboiseriverpark with the waves shapers in the erect position. :rolleyes:


This is the old dam, note the grouted boulders. There are several grouted boulder areas or jetties which will form eddies.
http://i.imgur.com/gVtfq.jpg

new dam looking east
http://i.imgur.com/PQknN.jpg

new dam looking ESE
http://i.imgur.com/Nsqcs.jpg

[el conquistador]

Saw a 'sold' sign on the old Macy's building today. Maybe the plan to convert is moving ahead faster than we know.... :shrug::shrug::shrug:

[Hawk]

:previous: Probably so... But I haven't heard or read anything lately about it... I just hope they redo the outside of the building to make it more attractive and modern.

[Visualize]

WW Park Update

Boise River returned to its channel after running thru Quinns Pond for the last 2.5 months. The new low head dam with pneumatic wave shapers is complete and the dangerous hydraulic created by the old dam is gone for good. Levee repair is underway. Sorry for poor cell phone quality pics. 3 more pics at: http://www.facebook.com/neefboiseriverpark with the waves shapers in the erect position. :rolleyes:


They seemed to really narrow the channel. That is going to produce some beastly waves once the water gets up to its summertime flow. Thank god that other death trap is gone.

[boisecynic]

They seemed to really narrow the channel. That is going to produce some beastly waves once the water gets up to its summertime flow. Thank god that other death trap is gone.

Bank to bank it's just as wide as ever but what's going on is multiple channels. There's the main channel with deflectors in foreground of the pics. Then there are two narrow channels with wave shapers. Then there's 2 channels filled with boulders. I'm guessing at highest flows the bouldered (highest elevation) channel will be the wave maker. But I really don't know. It will be interesting to see how this thing works at any given CFS.

Zimo has pics from the other side at the Statesman's site: http://voices.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/25/outdoors/river_flowing_through_recreation_park_area#comments

[Visualize]

^^ Ahhhhh....okay, it was hard to see all that was going on. The first pic at the statesman link really helps put it into perspective when looking at yours. Sweet.

[Boisebro]

Saw a 'sold' sign on the old Macy's building today. Maybe the plan to convert is moving ahead faster than we know.... :shrug::shrug::shrug:

whatever becomes of that building, i sure hope it includes extensive exterior work.

i walked by there this week and took a closer look... it's really an eyesore compared to the other buildings downtown. i know macy's had plans to redo the entire exterior about 10 years ago, but put those plans on indefinite hold.

[el conquistador]

whatever becomes of that building, i sure hope it includes extensive exterior work.

i walked by there this week and took a closer look... it's really an eyesore compared to the other buildings downtown. i know macy's had plans to redo the entire exterior about 10 years ago, but put those plans on indefinite hold.

Do you think they still plan on doing it? :runaway:

[Cottonwood]

We have a lot of apartment proposals for inner Boise... the BSU area and downtown. Here are a few with images at the links. I also saw at the city website that the apartments on Royal Boulevard are up for design review next month. The Cubes are still proposed across the street from this new project.
http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201201111330314220


A pdf with a lot of info and images of The Cubes on Royal Boulevard.

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201109261015306160


Renderings for a proposed apartment building near BSU and the river on Longmont Avenue.

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201201051552542760




And The District at Parkcenter.

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201112011442093420





and the proposal for Park Boulevard.

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201201090921079200

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201201090919490160




The lot at Idaho and 15th, where The Met and then that organic grocery store were planned is for sale. I feel that is a perfect spot for a multi floor apartment building with underground parking and some street retail.

[GrandTeton]

:previous:You're always full of great finds. Thanks!

[Hawk]

so they finally gave up on trying to fight KBOI. That's too bad! the Met would have been a great building for that space....BTW great finds Cottonwood! the only building i'm not a fan of is the District at Parkcenter.

[Cottonwood]

This looks like a place to check out. The amount of gourmet food establishments in town is rather impressive. I know people who drive 340 miles on occasion just to eat and relax in Boise:)


http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/27/1970163/atavola-cafe-market-opens-in-linen.html
Food Notes: A’Tavola cafe, market opens in Boise's Linen District
BY DANA OLAND - doland@idahostatesman.com
Published: 01/27/12

The culinary table is the place we gather to enjoy food, life and each other. It’s the center of community life, says Lisa Peterson, and that’s what she wants her newest venture to become.

A’Tavola, which means “of the table” in Italian, is a gourmet deli, bakery, market and cafe. It opened last week in Boise’s Linen District.

Peterson ran the Boise Co-op deli for 20 years before branching out with Peterson Catering and the Idaho Shakespeare Festival’s Cafe Shakespeare. She will operate all three ventures with her husband, Peter.

The Petersons transformed the former Donnie Mac’s Trailer Park Cuisine space at 1515 W. Grove St. into a spacious, simple European-style cafe and market.

Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/27/1970163/atavola-cafe-market-opens-in-linen.html#storylink=cpy

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/02/01/1976081/new-park-senior-center-on-meridians.html#storylink=latest
New park, senior center on Meridian’s horizon
The Meridian mayor, who’ll reveal new details in her State of the City speech Wednesday, says the entire Valley will benefit from a ‘phenomenal asset.’
BY CYNTHIA SEWELL - cmsewell@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2012 Idaho Statesman



The Julius M. Kleiner family’s gift to the city of Meridian — a $25 million, 60-acre park — is almost complete.

Designed to offer a peaceful urban retreat, the park at the northeast corner of Eagle Road and Fairview Avenue features a plaza, band shell, amphitheater, arboretum and rose garden, ponds, public art, recreation complex, picnic areas, paths and open space. It’s got the Rock of Honor Memorial to commemorate military members from Meridian who’ve died in battle.

[BoiseAirport]

Not really development related, but heartbreaking news today.

Micron Chairman Steve Appleton killed in Boise plane crash

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/02/03/1979798/cnbc-reporting-that-micron-trading.html#storylink=latest
- Idaho Statesman
Idaho Statesman
Published: 02/03/12

Steve Appleton, the chairman and CEO of Micron Technology, was killed Friday morning in a plane crash in Boise. He was 51.

[Hawk]

:previous: Agreed. He was a good man! thank god it wasn't a Boeing 737 that crashed.

[Sawtooth]

This is so sad. I was near the airport this morning and saw the smoke and thought a jet had crashed.

[Cottonwood]

Not really development related, but heartbreaking news today.
It is heartbreaking. Even amid layoffs he and Micron have done a lot for Boise and BSU. Today is such a beautiful day too, the sky is deep blue, the mountains are inspiring with the snow. Sad day for sure.





http://www.ktvb.com/news/Micron-CEO-Steve-Appleton-dies-in-crash-138659114.html

Steve Appleton, 1960 - 2012
2004: "I'm very fortunate, lucky to be able to experience the kinds of things that I do. If my life were to end tomorrow, I've had a full life."




http://images.bimedia.net/documents/Micron+statement.pdf

PRESS RELEASE: Statement by Micron Technology Board of Directors
Friday, February 03, 2012 1:56:51 PM (GMT-05:00)
Provided by: Dow Jones
Statement by Micron Technology Board of Directors
BOISE, Idaho, Feb. 3, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Appleton, Micron (Nasdaq:MU) Chairman and CEO, passed away this morning in a small plane accident in Boise. He was 51.
Our hearts go out to his wife, Dalynn, his children and his family during this tragic time.
Steve's passion and energy left an indelible mark on Micron, the Idaho community and the technology industry at large.

The company expects to provide additional information later today.
Micron Technology, Inc., is one of the world's leading providers of advanced semiconductor solutions. Through its worldwide operations, Micron manufactures and markets a full range of DRAM, NAND and NOR flash memory, as well as other innovative memory technologies, packaging solutions and semiconductor systems for use in leading-edge computing, consumer, networking, embedded and mobile products. Micron's common stock is traded on the NASDAQ under the MU symbol. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc., visit www.micron.com.

[eastidaho]

Such sad news. God bless his family.

He contributed a lot to Boise State. I remember the year I graduated, he was there receiving an honorary degree from the school.

[BoiseAirport]

Just throwing this idea out there, for the new COBE building at Boise State... The "Steve Appleton College of Business and Economics."

[Hawk]

Just throwing this idea out there, for the new COBE building at Boise State... The "Steve Appleton College of Business and Economics."

Love the idea BA!....it'd be interesting to see a video from the control tower or somewhere along the terminal of the plane crash. but that's just me...anything to do with airplanes and airports fascinates me!

[Evo5Boise]

Very sad indeed. I was fortunate enough to work in his private hangar about a year ago. I met his father-in-law. One of the nicest gentleman I've met. He shared stories about Steve, gave me the grand tour, and showed me pictures of Steve's Baja races down in Mexico. In fact, that week they had just bought a brand new baja buggy for Appleton's 8 year old son.

I have great condolences for his family. RIP Steve Appleton.

[Visualize]

We have a lot of apartment proposals for inner Boise... the BSU area and downtown. Here are a few with images at the links.

..........

and the proposal for Park Boulevard.

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201201090921079200

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201201090919490160



Maybe the third time's the charm. This site really needs something due to it being in a great location, and the entrance into downtown from ParkCenter Blvd. It's hard to remember, but I don't recall there being so much surface parking with the other proposals. The neighbors always did complain enough to get the projects hacked down so I'm sure that plays into it as well. I think it works though when the building isn't set back and the lots can still be developed in the future. I really hope this one makes it.

[Cottonwood]

Maybe the third time's the charm. This site really needs something due to it being in a great location, and the entrance into downtown from ParkCenter Blvd. It's hard to remember, but I don't recall there being so much surface parking with the other proposals. The neighbors always did complain enough to get the projects hacked down so I'm sure that plays into it as well. I think it works though when the building isn't set back and the lots can still be developed in the future. I really hope this one makes it.

I remember that...the Strawberry Lane neighbors or something similar complaining about the height of the last proposal. So silly because their hood is mostly apartments, townhomes, condos, etc. Maybe the Nimby's who were outspoken last time are not around anymore.

[Future Mayor]

It's good to read that the former Macy's has potential plans to be turned into housing. I will be honest though, it's to bad it is slated for 100% affordable, I think it would be great if it were developed into a mixed income housing. Yes it's nice to provide places for people to live that need affordable housing, but it's also a good idea to provide new housing options for market rate, those that tend to bring more disposable income into the downtown area.

I have seen several projects in several cites that have been either all affordable or mixed income and simply by observation of the condition of the properties, the mixed income properties tend to hold up for longer periods of time. I am a huge proponent in any city, especially in the downtown core that affordable housing should be in mixed income developments.

[Cottonwood]

The entire article is at the link. I did not know we were recently ranked 4th best for womens health. Pretty cool, Boise has been highly ranked recently in various magz and by the CDC regarding our fit and healthy population.

http://www.realtor.com/blogs/2012/02/03/realtor-coms-top-ten-turnaround-towns-booming-in-boise-data/

REALTOR.com's Top Ten Turnaround Towns: Booming In Boise| REALTOR.com® Blogs


All week Realtor.com has been announcing the cities included on its Top 10 Turnaround Town Report. Today, we are announcing the final city on our report – Boise City, ID, which holds the number six position on the list.

#6 Boise City, ID’s year-over-year for sale inventory observed by Realtor.com is down 40 percent, eighth best in the nation based on the year-over-year rate of decline. A key reason for the declining inventory is a reduction in foreclosures.


Affordable properties under $150,000 are still hard to come by in Boise proper, and when we do get those, they go fast and sometimes at over the asking price,” said Cristina Pescaru, Realtor. “The inventory is low because sellers don’t like to put their properties on the market during winter and the holidays. Hopefully, once Spring comes we will see a more lively market, and a lot more activity, especially now, that Boise has been a couple of times in the news, most recently placed 4th on the list of best cities for women’s health. As of now, and due to the overall economic picture, Boise still seems to be the best kept secret.”

Read more: REALTOR.com's Top Ten Turnaround Towns: Booming In Boise (DATA) | REALTOR.com® Blogs

[Cottonwood]

http://www.cityofboise.org/Departments/PDS/PDF/Hearings/Design%20Review%20Committee/Legals/2012/03-14-12_DRLegal.pdf

DRH12-00033 – River 8 LLC / Steve Hosac
Location: 620 South 9th Street
Design Review for a seven story mixed use building to include commercial, structured parking and residential development in a C-5DD (Central Business District with Downtown Design Review) zone.



and


DRH12-00038 – 5B Sawtooth Peaks, LLC / Chris Stevens
Location: 501 East Parkcenter Boulevard
Design Review for eight, two and three story apartment buildings with amenities and site improvements on property located in an L-OD (Limited Office with Design Review), R-1C (Single Family Residential) and R-1B (Single Family Residential) zones.

[GrandTeton]

I was speaking with an architecture firm in Seattle called GGLO and Boise came into the conversation.

I was doing a little internet search on some projects they are working on in Boise and I came across this rendering of the Brix in BoDo.

http://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/original_130544_h3lLc9HfCub53TsVLyNJ09M9Z.jpg

Besides Brix, they mentioned something about working on an indoor year-round home for the Capitol City market. I'm assuming that it might be located on the parking lot near the U.S. Bank building on the Grove. I'll be sure to keep everyone updated if I find out more.

[City Of Trees]

Besides Brix, they mentioned something about working on an indoor year-round home for the Capitol City market. I'm assuming that it might be located on the parking lot near the U.S. Bank building on the Grove. I'll be sure to keep everyone updated if I find out more.That would be a real good location for it. The only downside I can think of is that the lot may not be big enough.

[Hawk]

I really like the rendering of the river 8 building....n about the lot that's the large parking lot closest to main and 8th street right for where the market would go right?