Taylor Crossing Unveils Largest Bronze Eagles
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I enjoyed the (hopefully first annual?) Taylor Crossing Summer Days yesterday.
It was nice that they not only did an public art enveiling, they also had a full day’s free festivities for the public. My kid really enjoyed the blow-up castles and activity centers.
The girl that sang the star-spangled banner was one of the best I ever heard, and the three speeches were short and sweet. They played the patriotic song, “I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I”m free” and pulled the covers off the sculptures.
I must admit, I had it wrong and thought it was a huge fish head and tail. When I arrived at the unveiling and saw the covered sculptures against the sunset, I realized it was two eagles. I did not guess the mountain lion beforehand, though.
The sculptures are awesome and great for Idaho Falls. Who wants to see some more of that great stuff around our city?
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Comments
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0 
0 BTW, the fourth picture down was included to not only show our Mayor Jared Fuhriman and TC developer Walker, but also the girl on the right who sang the national anthem so spectacularly.
Someone get that girl an agent!
I thought the new 13-story hotel would become the tallest structure in Idaho Falls, but I just read that it will be 175 feet tall and the water tower is 182 feet tall?
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0 0 Gotta agree with OK!
The Walkers picked a great artist when they picked Vic Payne to provide this scene.
Great pics, Joe!
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0 0 I believe…and I could be mistaken…that the girl in the picture who sang the anthem is one of Rollie Walkers daughters. It’s either one of his daughters, or the daughter of his brother, Keith.
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0 0 I have to compliment your shots yet again, Joe V. OK for now, I heard there is sort of a story about the father eagle protecting his young from the mountain lion, and it all sort of ties together. But I was wondering about the ML as a local symbol, too. I wonder how the nest will be kept up. Maybe a real eagle will make it home some day after the humanz have gone. They should put in a little heated bus stop viewing area combo. good idea.
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0 0 Where did you read that depressing news, Joe? How about adding a lightening rod or something on the top so it surpasses the water tower?
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0 0 Wonderful Shots. We drove by that evening and was extremely impressed and surprised. I hope they will adjust the lights soon so it will show off the eagles at night.
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0 0 I believe the singer is the Walker’s daughter.
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0 0 I’m just glad that they modified the fountain so that it doesn’t look quite so much like the rock monster that attacked Tim Allen in Galaxy Quest.
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0 0 I think Talors crossing is going to bring alot fo buinsnesses to Idaho falls and tourism. I am so excited to have witnessed it all. I have been taking pics since the place ever broke ground 4 years ago. I have over 4,000 pics of taylors crossing, and I have over 500 images from the unvieling that turned out. I also talked to the artists wife on the phone she is real nice and really wants some of the pics from me for theyer portfolio and also a dvd slide show and video of the cerimony. I wonder what is planned next.
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0 0 I think it looks like the Madorhorn (sp?). I think I see the Yeti! Raaaaar!
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0 0 lol JeremyPlo I can’t wait till Tailors crossing gets the site finished I want the finished pics. I am getting some inside the buildings soon I still have to talk with Rollie about that but I am sure he would like that.
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0 0 I just happened onto this site. I appreciate the nice things said about what we are trying to do at Taylor Crossing. We love being here in Idaho Falls and we love all the great people that make Idaho Falls what it is. Our overall intent at TC is to create a “there there”. A place where everyone can enjoy timeless buildings, art, and landscape. The eagle monument is just the first piece of art that begins what we call the “Legacy Walkway”. Every few hundred feet we intend to add a special art feature that will relate to our local history. Visitors, locals, and school children will be able to take a stroll, see the art, read the art history, and have a pretty nice idea of what makes SE Idaho what it is. We invite anyone to stop by our McNeil Development offices just north of Zions Bank to learn more about the next fun phase of TC development. We also invite your ideas. What restaurant do you want? What boutique shop? What service? Etc.
Thanks again for your tremendous support in rebuilding the center of our city.
Lorin Walker
McNeil Development
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0 0 “Every few hundred feet we intend to add a special art feature that will relate to our local history. Visitors, locals, and school children will be able to take a stroll, see the art, read the art history, and have a pretty nice idea of what makes SE Idaho what it is.”
Awesome! Where else in Idaho Falls can we implement this design strategy? Downtown? The corridor between the broadway freeway exit and the greenbelt? Parks?
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0 0 A friend came into town this weekend and noticed the eagles at Taylor’s Crossing. Quite impressive, I must say.
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0 0 I had an idea of some new sculptures that might be neat. You know those road medians between the opposing traffic directions? It might be neat to have sculptures of kids or people running in those medians, as if they’re racing the cars.
Whatever happened to those sculptures in the Grand Teton Mall of kids playing, they used to be in the planters? I just realized last night I have not seen them in a long time.
If those sculptures are sitting in storage somewhere, it would be neat to see them erected somewhere around town.
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0 0 Mr. Walker:
Thank you for what your are creating at Taylor’s Crossing. The accomplished are discussed in several formats. I hope you were serious about wanting our suggestions of what restaurants, businesses or services we would like to see in TC. And I hope you will check back here to read what we suggest.
Restaurants:
1. Ruby Tuesdays
2. Cracker Barrel
3. Yogurt specialty shop.
Specialty Store:
1. A luggage/travel store, much like Shapiro’s or others. With increased air traffic, INL visitors etc. many people need to replace or have luggage fixed, or pick up new items for traveling. With the Residence Inn in the development, it only makes sense to me to add a business such as this.
What will be happening will a potential grocery store for the residents who live in the higher levels of the Marriott Residence Inn? I know Wal*Mart is in the area, but not many seniors, or busy business people necessarily want to go shop at Wal*Mart, or don’t have time to do so. Consequently, my next suggestions:
2. Would a smaller grocery or large convience store near the Residence Inn be an option? I also bet many of those already in the professional offices wouldn’t mind a smaller grocery store, which might even promote “quick meals” to take home for dinner,
3. With the new Mountain View Urgent Care moving in, I’d like to see a business like Eastgate Drug (west) build a small pharmacy to serve the needs of those who receive medical care at the local medical and dental practitioners. Again, thinking of the out-of-town visitor who gets ill, has a toothache or forgets medications etc. for a prolonged trip and needs a pharmacy, while Wal*Mart does have a pharmacy, I would like to see this pharmacy be about convience. I think it would be a winner.
Eastgate has the drive up windows at their present location and what better way to limit infectious diseases than having people able to fill and pick up prescriptions from their vehicle?
Secondly, I would want a pharmacy that will deliver, so if a senior or other person living at Marriott Residence Inn is ill, he/she could get his medication delivered to him/her.
4. While this might have to be negotiated with Marriott, given the size of the Residence Inn, I think it will soon be time for someone to rent vehicles downtown. Many guests who fly in don’t rent one, if they are traveling with others to INL or other locations, or don’t drive. However, I’ve been in many cities when I’ve gotten an afternoon off and gone downstairs in the hotel where I was staying and rented a car for the afternoon. I can certainly see how even flight attendants or airplane pilots who are staying over night might want to rent a car to see a movie, or drive somewhere in the valley. It would also increase the fleet of vehicles currently available in Idaho Falls (which is not enough!).
5. Coffee Shop that serves more than coffee. WiFi gathering area where local residents can either walk or drive to and enjoy an evening surfing the net, playing checkers, cards etc. while talking to their friends/family.
6. A couple of movie theaters and tennis courts.
Now for my final suggestion (or at least for tonight):
A delivery service that would pick up food from a limited amount of I.F. area restaurants and deliver throughout the city. It wouldn’t be just a TC thing.
Everytime I stay at a hotel, I see who will deliver so I don’t have to go back out after a long day. You may know how popular these services have become in other cities.
Thanks for letting me suggest some of the ideas I have. I’ll leave the art ideas to Joe. I have to travel a lot and think of what I would want, if it were me staying at the Residence Inn or living in the area.
I wish you continued luck and success with the wonderful addition your company is making to Idaho Falls.
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0 0 We at Taylor Crossing on the River will continue to read this interesting forum. I’m happy to report that we have contacted several of those companies that you have suggested come to TC. We are also looking for ways to implement some of your service ideas.
Thank you for the wonderful input.
Lorin Walker
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0 0 Thanks for the update, Lorin. It’s nice to hear you listening to what people are asking for.
Hopefully everyone is that much happier with Taylor Crossing in the end if they feel a tiny bit of ownership.
I’m getting concerned about all these new developments only having retail and office spaces so far. You know the mix needs balancing with some residential spaces also.
When will the residential spaces be completed, and about how many dwellings might be expected?
Thanks,
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0 0 Mr. Walker,
It is nice to have you respond on IFz.Com. The fact you will even review ideas of what locals, and frequent travelers to Idaho Falls, would like to see added to Taylor’s Crossing s wonderful!
I greatly appreciate you taking our suggestions seriously and contacting suggested businesses, or talking as a company of how to potentially impliment the service ideas, that we’ve written here. I hope you were given a favorable responses by restaurant chains and others! Any info you would like to share about future tenants or additional businesses is always appreciated.
I totally agree with Joe that allowing us to at least express our ideas, gives us a sense of ownership. I think McNeil is to be applauded for even asking for our input.
Like Joe, I too, will be interested in residential developments. A few specialty shops and hopefully a few more restaurants we would like to see would be great! I know many have wanted Cracker Barrel for several years.
A newer member had asked about a specific health food store (not Wild Oats) as a nice addition for T.C. I’ll ask that person to submit that info here as well, as I can’t remember the name of the franchise store.
Finally, I am aware that Marriott has been, at the very least, dragging their feet at the 13 tower hotel/condo structure. I hope Marriott’s concerns can rapidly be resolved as Marriott Residence Inns are very popular and I know dozens of Srs. who are interested in condos close to the LDS Temple (limited driving especially on bad roads), the airport, increasing restaurant choices and a few other stores downtown.
I don’t know what is making Marriott wanting to rethink the 13 tower size (which I think should be 14 stories tall, as no hotel has a 13th floor). But, perhaps there are ways we can help, if appropriate.
I don’t think the community members at large know what is causing the delay in construction of the hotel/condo building, and perhaps we cannot be told given confidentiality issues for business. However, Marriott may be surprised what the community members want and how many people are looking forward to the Marriott Residence Inn being the first building, of what hopefully will be a new Idaho Falls Skyline.
I believe this hotel will have regional appeal for those assigned to INL for long-term assignments to travelers to YNP, Jackson Hole and the Tetons and others visiting the area. With the increased air service at the Idaho Falls Regional Airport, there is no other good option of where to fly in eastern Idaho. It can be very expensive to fly into Jackson Hole and even Bozeman. So I think it is important to always keep the regional factor as part of the need.
With increased passengers come increased travelers and crew members. It would certainly be a win-win for those visting the area to see the tower of Marriott Residence Inn as they fly in (or drive)as a progressive hotel option. Many of my business associates always want to know what Marriott hotels are in the area both because it is a trusted “brand name” hotel chain and because some businesses mandate which hotel chains their employees may use.
If Marriott isn’t too keen about mixing hotel guests and condo residents, I offer this: If one wants their family to visit, such as a Sr.Condo owner, but doesn’t physically have the room for all to stay in their home, all their relatives need to do is take an elevator downstairs and stay in guest rooms. The same is true for residents of any age who choose to live in the tower condos.
The Marriott Residence Inn TOWER will offer residents the ability to have friends and family close by with amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, workout facilities and other amenites few have for their visiting family members and other guests.
Thanks again for all you’ve done to get many in Idaho Falls thinking progressively about how areas can be redeveloped for better future use.
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0 0 Thanks for TC.
Here are some restraunt ideas off the top of my head. I have no idea if any of these franchise in Idaho or if the territory is already taken but they are just some ideas.
Claim Jumpers
Buffalo Wild Wings
McGraths Fish House
Famous Daves BBQ
P.F. Changs
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0 0 Right on about PF Changs, but I don’t know if they will locate in a city under 100K. But, it doesn’t hurt to ask and get on there “wants” list.
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0 0 I second the motion for PF Changs and maybe a Cheesecake Factory too. 
Mr. Walker,
I am so happy to hear that you are interested in our input on what we would like to come to Taylors Crossing. I recently relocated from Seattle, Wa area. I am impressed with how much this town has grown in the past few years. One store that I think would be in high demand here is a great tasting natural foods store. Trader Joes is based out of Cailfornia and is located in Seattle and all around the country but none in Idaho. I think that would be a great addition to our town. Also I would like to see a Cost Plus World Market. They offer food goods from all around the world as well as decor, kitchen ware, bedding, candles and furniture. My last suggestion and this is really my husbands concern is a Comp USA. He has had a really hard time finding all of the computer parts he needs at the places in town and has had to order 1/2 of them online. Not only could Idaho Falls benfit from a Comp USA but also all the surrounding areas. Especially the students from ISU and BYU-I. Thanks for taking the time to consider our suggestioins!!!
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0 0 To the good people of Idaho Falls: Please keep sharing your ideas for Taylor Crossing retailers and restaurants. We absolutely love your ideas and value your input. We promise to actively contact every workable company suggested. Stand by for news. We’re only a couple days from signing the most exciting restaurant to hit Idaho Falls in decades. You’ll love it.
Thanks again,
Lorin Walker
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0 0 Hey, at least give us a hint Lorin!!! Since ifz is such a great site, how about letting the readers read it here first…..:)
Roysie, yes to the Comp USA suggestion. We cannot ever find what we need in regards to computer and new technology. The choices in our current stores are so limited and geared towards the basic user.
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0 0 I thought Comp USA was going out of business
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0 0 frys electronics is a great tech source in other states
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0 0 In the early stages, I heard that a Bennigan’s (Irish-themed restaurant) was going to be built. Later, I saw a sign that confirmed the rumor…but the sign is now long gone, and I suspect that they have withdrawn.
Does anyone know for sure?
CompUSA is a decent place…at least you can walk in and buy a Mac. That’s where I bought mine in Denver. They were in massive store-closure/layoff survival mode a couple years ago. I don’t know if they have a secure home in I.F. or not.
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0 0 Joey’s Seafood. Don’t know anything about it and have never been there or heard of it but on their website it says they are opening soon in IF. This is not Joe’s Crab Shack but a different place alltogether. Could this be the fish house supposed to be opening?
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0 0 probably, Idajo. Their pattern of expansion makes no sense to me, but you are correct their website does confirm they are opening in Idaho Falls soon.
Of interest, is the fact they opened in Boise. Potentially the same investor or group is opening the Idaho Falls store too.
It is also possible this might be going in one of the other 7 available restaurant pads.
I don’t think it will be long until Idaho Falls gets a McGraths. McGraths is based in OR.
Joey’s is from Nantucket. Who says local residents won’t like the differences of east and west coast.
We should have more choices by fall.
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0 0 We’ve not seen so much interest in restaurants as we are seeing right now. I was hoping to let you know who was signing. (I was told by the restaurant’s president that they had made a decision, but i have to see it in writing before I spread the news). You’ll like it. It’s a mixed-american concept that has a sporty twist.
_____________
We flew a different restaurant corporate owner into IF from Denver yesterday. His concept is like no other restaurant in IF. Young and old will like them, if they come. He indicated that if he ultimatley decides to come here, it will definately be at Taylor Crossing. I asked him the likelihood of his coming. He said it was high on his list. He expects to be building in 2008. I’m going to try to push that to some time in late 2007.
—————
We’d like to involve our blog friends in a contest. If you want to help us get connected through someone you know in the restaurant or retail industry by sharing an important contact name and introduction, we will bring them to IF and have you join with us in a special dinner meeting where you can be involved in the actual negotiations. If we ultimately sign your restaurant or retailer, we will pay you a $5000 finder’s fee. You will actually be the person that “cuts” the ribbon at their grand opening, along with the owner.
Here’s some retail ideas we are toying with. If you have any special connections, please let us know: Sporting goods; spas; medical/dental; running shoes; golf; book store; specialty furniture; coffee shops; bridal shops; computer store; and more and more.
Good luck,
Lorin Walker
Office # 524-3341
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0 0 Excellent! Thanks for the update Lorin!
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0 0 Lorin, I have a question for you. What if I don’t know anyone that has connections for the restaurant or retailer but I am absolutely positive they would look at the area, money or not, would I still get to be a part of the contest?
I know that you would have to do the initial contact but I would love to be there to help them choose Idaho Falls.
Oh, by the way, when’s the old Army Surplus coming down?
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0 0 Their getting rid of the Army Surplus store? I go in there all the time to pick up camping gear. Are the closing for good or just relocating?
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0 0 CR67,
Um, do you go to the old crumbling building by Smitty’s? Or, do you go to the one closer to the Interstate?
The building that was suppose to come down months ago is by Smitty’s and falling apart. Yet, some people wanted it to be a part of the new development, regardless of the risk to others, and the liability to the developers.
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0 0 The one by the Interstate. Didn’t know there was another one….sorry! Thanks for clarifying!
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0 0 Sure. Don’t walk in the old one (if you could even get it). Might get hit in the head by something falling.
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0 0 Does anyone know if there will be any clothing stores In the TC area?
It would be sweet to have an Abercrombie and Fitch. I’ve heard a rumor that there might be some kind of outlet mall on the street across from gandalfos.
And also does anyone know anything about the building going on at sunnyside? There is a road that kind of seems like it’s for homes that comes from across the street of Gandalfo’s (by those two new huge buildings being built). if you follow that road all the way down that’s the section of sunnyside i’m talkin about.
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0 0 Sarah,
You might want to read back through some discussions on IFz.Com with various names for far more detailed information. You also might want to look at a zoning map, to see what type of businesses or homes can be allowed where.
Why don’t you call McNeil Development and then report to us about A and F store in T.C.?
Just don’t get T.C. confused with Snake River Landing and the upscale stores which will be locating there.
And check a city map for directions. It seemed like you had a few, but limited, detail from 3 different developments. But, I might be wrong. Your phone call/e-mail to McNeil could clarify.
The Sunnyside Crossroads Regional Shopping Center is the OUTLET mall - the first in eastern ID.
http://www.sunnysidecrossroads.com/outletcenter.html
It is possible to have an A and F, along with a Nordstrom Rack, Mikasa outlet, Bass shoes, Eddie Bauer etc. - typical OUTLET STORES ALL in the OUTLET mall.
How about clarifying with your source then posting the correct information here?
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Awesome shots. What an photographers eye! Thanks for posting them here Joe.
Did anyone explain any stories behind why the the two eagles and a mountain lion were chosen? The mountain lion blens in so naturally with what was already there. Wonder how he’ll look with colored water or colored lights on snow? I wish there was somewhere at T.C. for people to sit warmly, in the cooler months, to still appreciate the art and not have to be in one of the buildings.
GREAT JOB to the Walker Brothers and GREAT JOB Joe!