An outside view of Idaho Falls.
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Here is a good read that I picked up from Idaho Business IQ, especially for those interested in what is going on right now in Idaho Falls. To really get a feel for these projects though it is necessary to stop and take a look at where Idaho Falls was not more than 10 years ago, and look ahead to where Idaho Falls will be 10 years from now. This article will help to paint the picture although I think it is also helpful to walk or drive through these areas to get the real feel of the magnitude of changes that are headed our way.
http://www.idahobusinessiq.com/article.asp?r=626&iid=43&sid=1
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Comments
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0 I am not suprised that IF is getting this type of recognition. I am not from here but every time i visit i am amazed by all the beauty of the city. It has so much to offer, friendly people, wonderful recreation, and beautiful scenery. There is also a large growth potential. I know many don’t necessarily want that, but once the word get’s out it’s pretty hard to stop the influx of those wanting to share it.
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0 0 You are correct, Sharla. This article makes that very point that some locals don’t want growth.
But, as you also mention, once the word it out, its out.
So do local people want to part of planning for the future or the people on the sidelines?
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0 0 This is one of the reasons why my wife and I decided to stay and to build our business here. This area is amazing and is growing quickly.
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0 0 I still think the downtown area needs a lot of work. It is a bit of an eye sore. Plus the surrounding area has some of the most beautifully maintained older homes in IF and some of the biggest dumps right next door. I wish the city would declare the area with the historic homes a historical area for blocks around and forbid rentals and regulate modifications to existing homes.
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0 0 Guest,
Do you make your views known to your City Council Rep? You have valid points.
I don’t think anyone said downtown was prime right now; I think this article focus on how natural and easily the downtown could be revitalized.
What suggestions do you have for the City Council? How can they prevent a beautiful home and a “dump,” as you mention, from being next to each other. Some people got tense at the City Council Meeting when the lowered numbered streets started a clean up effort.
If you haven’t read it, I suggest reading (or listening to the MP3) version of the City Council Meeting in early March. Personally, I agree with you. But, how do you get all in the neighborhood to understand your POV?
Also, what block or area do you think another developer or someone who wants to open a business should focus on? What businesses would you like to see downtown? What would make you spend more time and money downtown?
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0 0 I would like to see more restaurants and theaters. I personally would like to see cars banned from downtown and make it a pedestrian/bicycle area. I know this would cost a lot, but i think underground parking at the four corners of the downtown area would be cool, Any type of business you see in the malls would be ok with me, however no big box stores. I wouldn’t even mind walking from shop to shop in the winter. They could decorate for the holidays and make the place look so inviting with no vehicle traffic. Maybe an ice skating rink, not just a flooded area. Have holiday music playing from hidden speakers on the walk ways. The winter would be great, and summers have outdoor entertainment on certain days in the summer. Have it all connected to the Greenbelt
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0 0 Thanks for this.
I might have missed where this was written (I admit I read through the article very fast) but when developers come in - HOW are they expected to “give back” to the community?
I know in Teton County developers can come in with a great deal of careless abandon compared with other areas - REALLY - plan new areas, build new homes, put in new roads - yet never be expected to offer up funds for local centers, or for improving city services, or anything of that nature.
As Idaho Falls grows, will the developers be expected to give back to that from which they benefit?
As a resident NOT from Bonneville County I admit I haven’t taken the time to sink my teeth into how it’s gorwn - I’m more concerned with my end of the valley (which is a horror story when it comes to developers giving back).
As for growth in general - if it’s done intelligently I’m for growth. Growth can inspire lots of great things - mor community involvement, more opportunity, more services, more choices.
I am opposed to raping and destroying of the landscape though. This has been done ALL over Teton County - if any of the readers are familiar with the area, then you might also be familiar with the developments I am discussing (most of which continue to destroy the natural landscape in the pursuit of the mighty dollar even as I write this). Little has been done in terms of providing services or improving community standards / roads / etc., but PLENTY has been done to line the wallets of Big Development.
All things in healthy, reasonable moderation. That’s what sometimes is lacking when a city gets the greed-bug. I hope that doesn’t happen in Idaho Falls (so far I haven’t seen it happening, but then again, I don’t live there).
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0 0 I’m a big advocate of making growth pay for itself.
Developers are running business for profit. They are only concerned with the bottom line. I’m not knocking them, but let’s all admit they will not create the little niceties like parks or bike paths or whatnot in their developments that do not equate to generous returns on the investment. It’s just the nature of the business model.
Therefore we have to force fees and taxes on the new growth. If new growth is not targeted to pay for itself, then we all get to pay for new growth.
What strategies can we use to make new growth pay for itself?
There was another discussion thread suggesting a 1% public art mandate on all new commercial construction, resembling what Rexburg has started. I could not believe the furor against the proposal, yet it was a perfect example of making new growth pay for itself and help contribute to a nicer environment.
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0 0 A 1% public art mandate is a great idea.
Joe wrote -
they will not create the little niceties like parks or bike paths or whatnot in their developments that do not equate to generous returns on the investment. It’s just the nature of the business model.
I write -
Yes and it’s a shame. I of course can’t speak for EVERY liberal inclined American out there in the USA, but I CAN speak for myself. And myself thinks the “nature of the business model” needs to change. So far it can tout TONS of low paying jobs, a few great paying ones, a load of environmental tragedies, a FEW moments of charity, and a bacially upside down way of thinking.
I’m 100% for business but I absolutely believe the model would do well to become more world-inclusive and less focused simply on the “quarterly profit”. Quarterly profits are an ignorant way to determine success on this planet. WHY on earth we continue to do it that way boggles my (admittedly bleeding-heart) mind.
There are companies in Europe (and a few in the US - give me some time and I can find a few examples) that employ plenty of people, pay them really well, tackle environmental issues, and manage to make a profit. NOT as much of a profit as they could if they raped and destroyed most things they touch, but a profit nonetheless.
Maybe our next president (who I hope is Edwards or Obama) can offer incentives for this type of thing. Then growth can be good for the community, good for the business, and good for the planet.
As Nature would intend it, in my opinion.
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0 0 The great thing about Taylor Crossing and Snake River Landing is what the developments will look like when complete.
Taylor Crossing has already given alot to the community by taken an ugly eyesore of industry and turned it into beautiful buildings, superb landscaping, and let’s not forget the bronze masterpiece at the roundabout.
I am sure that once Snake River Landing publicizes it’s master plan everyone will feel a little better about these developments. I can’t say much but I do know that huge lakes, bike paths, nature trails, softball fields and more will be included within SRL.
These are developers who have strong ties to the Idaho Falls area and want to give back to the community that has given them so much. When all is said and done the greenbelt will extend to the south of Sunnyside on the west side of the river and culminate at Ryder Park.
Ryder Park has been mentioned by Mayor Furihman a few times but has only recently opened up about the magnitude of park just recently.
The city of IF and the BLM are working together on this project in hopes of turning it into a regional attraction. Think Kathryn Albertsons Park in Boise for example only bigger and more wildlife and will also include campgrounds.
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0 0 That’s an interesting idea, where is Ryder Park?
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0 0 Ryder Park will be located at the southeast corner of the Sunnyside/I-15 interchange and will follow the banks of the Snake River.
It will greatly help to offset all the asphalt and concrete in the surrounding developments.
To put into perspective the size of the park, it is roughly the size of the area of Taylor Crossing plus the Wal-Mart development plus another five to ten acres.
If you look at the area now, it is hard to imagine such a park being that it is all farmland at the moment.
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0 0 I know it sounds crazy - but I liked Taylor Crossing when it WAS an ugly old eyesore. It was less congested, the sky was more visible, and I could wave “hi” to my friend who works over there @ one of the buildings that is now hidden behind the monstrosity that is called “Taylor Crossing”.
Be that as it may, I am happy to hear that a greenbelt is being planned over on Sunnyside. I JUST barely responded to Joe in another thread about a possible greenbelt on the East side of town - or @ least somewhere where new development is being introduced.
Too much “building” and too little “parks” creates ugliness. I notice that when I visit my family in Boston there are parks on every few corners where people meet, hang out with their friends, take their kids to play, eat lunch, walk their dogs and cats, etc. I think parks and greenbelts inspire community interaction.
If I were Queen of the world I would INSIST that for every two blocks of homes and businessess there would need to be a park. I’m glad they are incorporating this thinking into future planning for Sunnyside.
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0 0 The Ryder Park concept sounds awesome!
Let’s hope the city enjoys it, and we build more bigger parks around here.
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0 0 We have an underutilized resource in our river frontage. But along with anything the private sector does, the city must be given powers to help along…even developers like the Ball Brothers & Walkers know this. But the Idaho Legislature is against any such powers being given to lower level municipalities and the counties as well. We’re the only state in the West without home-rule powers, and just witness the latest legislative piece of micromanagement restricting TIF (tax increment financing) districts.
Without a TIF district, the Walkers could have never pulled off Taylor Crossing, the Ball Ventures deal across Pancheri, or the stretch of hotels beside the river. The Idaho Legislature is controlled by farm & ranch interests that hate cities & towns.
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0 0 One of the reasons I moved to IF from South Florida was the small town feel and job opportunities. I almost moved to Boise but decided on IF for the small town atmosphere. Granted I think IF has a long ways to go to beautify the city itself, but I’m all for growth.
I think it was Sharla who said she was amazed at the beauty of this city, and I’ve got to say…Sharla you must not have traveled much. Personally I don’t think the city is all that beautiful, although I do love the surrounding areas. This city definately has its work cut out for it in order to make it more beautiful and appealing to outside business’. I think it should take a look at other cities throughout the country and use them as examples or templates if you will, to clean IF up. A few places come to mind, Boca Raton FL, Austin TX, and Savannah GA just to name a few. All three cities are very clean and have alot going for them when it comes to activities for the community.
This city could really bring in more tourism and business with just a little time and a lot of hard work.
I agree with cutting out traffic in downtown. Close it off to vehicles and build a nice parking garage. Add some landscaping (which this whole city desperately needs) and hold monthly block parties to raise money to put back into our community.
More bike/walking paths are needed throughout the whole community. I lived a block from the beach in Florida and pretty much the only time I drove my car was when I went to work or out to eat/movies, etc. Everyone rode their bikes, walked and inline skated everywhere. And every third weekend they’d have concerts/local bands play with local resturaunts providing consessions. Every fourth weekend was movie night. They’d set up a big movie screen and show popular family type movies. Theres no reason events like this couldn’t be planned for the greenbelt area.
This town could be so much more if only our chamber of commerce and a few other groups would get their act together and just start planning things like this. (if you plan it, they will come!)
One thing I did notice when I moved here, is that there’s no parking meters anywhere in this city. (at least anywhere I’ve been) I say add some parking meters and use that money towards enhancing our city. The greenbelt is about the only decent section in town and even it could be improved in so many ways. More events need to be planned around this area. And use them to raise money to put back into the city.
A nice convention center that can be used for national bands on tour, local plays, theatre, seminars, etc. would do wonders for this city as well.
Gypsy also mentioned more parks. That’s not a bad idea, although IF has quite a few parks as it is. That was one thing I did notice when I moved here. We’ve got a lot more parks in this town then most cities, so it’s really not that bad. Plus we’re running out of real estate for more parks. A few more would be nice, but I think we need to fix up what we already have and definately do something with downtown. The revitilization of downtown will bring familes back and do wonders for our community.
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0 0 CR67, I’m guessing an updated version of Chrisr067? Smart to make the change, given SOME comments.
I believe your raise good points. I’ve traveled a lot, like you, and I have to say while many cities have taken different tactics to become more attractive to tourists and visitors, there is still something about the natural beauty of Idaho Falls that always makes me glad for this area.
That being said, I thing you have some good ideas.
I’m not intending to sound obnoxious here, but I do think CR67, you have to admit the cities you sited are much “older” and filled with tradition that Idaho Falls. That is NOT to imply that new traditions and installing pride in how all areas look shouldn’t start.
I just know when I’m in FL, Bal Harbor, Ft. Lauderdale traveling in a water taxi (which would be so easy to do here), or in the Tri-State Area: NY, NJ, CT, I have to stop and remember the number of people who currently live there and for how long.
Your ideas are all solid in my book, so I nomiated you as the Chairperson for Community Clean up. How about writing a new article and seeing what response you get of how the average citizen can make a difference?
We can tell lawmakers what we want, but until there is a reason for them to make a move, they won’t. Personally, I hope when the new IFPD/and IFFD Headquarters is built, that old city building is condemend, torn down and something great built in it’s place.
We can’t start everywhere. What ONE area would you (and others) recommend the area focus on when trying to make the area more attractive?
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0 0 Yes…one in the same. Sorry I was on another site when I came over here and forgot to change over my username. But now that you mention it, maybe I’ll stick with the kinder…gentler “CR67″. Sorry if some of my comments offend, that’s not my intention. I guess I just have very strong opinions (like others on this site)which is probably the Italian blood in me. Thanks for your comments though. I like your “water taxi” idea. I’ve been on the one in Ft.Laud a number of times and it’s great way to bar hop, and very inexpensive. If we had more restaruants or bars on the river it would be even better, but to have one or two just for site seeing around the area would be nice as well.
I personally think we should start on the downtown area to focus on making more attractive.
One other note:
I saw a group of kids cleaning up some graffitti off of Shoup St I think it was. I wish I would have had some time to stop and talk to them, but I was running late for an appointment. It was really nice to see them painting over the graffitti on this big wall though. Way to go guys and gals…whoever you were! 
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0 0 CR67
No offense taken by me. I’m not sure I made my point very well and have been thinking about it ever since I wrote it.
What I meant was, you’ve lived in the south. I, and I’m sure many others who visit here, have spent a lot of time in the south. Maybe there are even some who served missions or other volunteer time in the south (and no this is not a religious moment or discussion).
What I was trying to point out, is “The South” and “The Eastcoast,” in particular, are perhaps on their 3 or 4th generation owner of a home or land. Tradition is huge, in the south. So is pride.
For me, there is a world of difference in someone owning a home for the first time in a newly annexed sub-division in Bonneville County compared to say a 4th or 5th Generation homeowner in the “old homestead, that’s been updated.” I think certain souther states in particular took great pride in the appearance of their area, as other factors in their life became more stable.
In the west, I don’t think we’re quite there yet. Even as often as I’ve been to California, I see people tearing old buildings down (which might be the best use of the land) and rebuilding. I don’t tend to see the stately mansions with the well-cared-for lawns except in the very selected areas of L.A., San Francisco and San Diego etc.
Maybe Gypsy, given her previous residence, can understand what I’m trying to say, and explain it better.
It took me seeing the south first hand and how much emphasis is placed on each individual owner’s home improvements/upgrades/landscaping to understand how and why it was not only important, but almost critical to have a very inviting city. Maybe it boils down to manners and tradition, I really don’t know.
I’m just suggesting the WEST is known to be more relaxed than the south and east parts of the U.S. And the west, by our nation’s timeline, hasn’t had as much experience overall (as the south or New England etc.) and NEEDS to be PRO-ACTIVE NOW!
So again, I like your article and agree with it. There are beautiful cities and neighborhoods throughout the U.S. It wouldn’t be fair to not mention Mercer Island or the area around Greenlake Dr. as some of the greenest with the best water views.
But, even in Seattle with those neighborhoods, I think it has to be a conscious effort into preservation or improving the home and city, instead of just assuming it will be like the GA or FL. with minimal upkeep.
I guess I’m saying it’s a mindset and not everyone understands how different some cities look. I’m sure San Antonio must of have looked strange prior to develop the river into what it has become. So many similar themes could be used with our local water here.
Maybe it takes education somehow, of letting others see what is very inviting about other cities.
Those are just my thoughts. And I agree, props to those who helped clean graffiti anywhere.
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0 0 I’m not sure if this was already said in the other discussion thread, but I noted in the last published city council minutes that Lorin Walker was specifically asked what restaurants would be going onto the Snake River bank portion of Taylor Crossing, and he replied “there will be a fish house and a steak and hamburger restaurant.”
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0 0 Earlier in the post you were discussing new development “giving something back” to the city. New development will add business and taxes to the cities coffers. They shouldn’t have to pay a tax to build. Once they are up and running they will pay back - in taxes by the businesses they create, the jobs they create, the goods purchased and sold. Additionally, the new development will increase the cities image and attract more business.
I you tax people who want to invest in the city upfront, you will reduce incentive as well as the amount of money they have to spend on improvement. It is wearying to hear of “punitive” solutions for people with incentive and income who wish to add value to the community.
-Praise - and suggestion -
I want to laud the city for finally moving forward with expanded road construction. I would like to see a limited access road running east - west to decrease travel time and congestion across town. I realize that Lincoln and Sunnyside were expanded to re-route traffic from 17th street, but that is just a temporary fix to a problem that already exists.
To facilitate future growth, one has to consider moving NOW on growth to come 10 yrs. down the road. Idaho Falls has been lagging behind growth, and needs to step it up and get ahead.
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0 0 Here is another link for the article titled, “Eagle Rock Takes Flight”, if this doesn’t work I can still find it for sure.
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Thanks, DNIX, for posting this.
I strongly encourage everyone who owns land, wants new stores, more recreational opportunities locally etc. or are just interested in how outsiders see the rapid development of Idaho Falls, to read this the article.
This is an excellent article that breaks down why businesses (such as Kohls, although not mentioned by name in the article) have finally entered ID. You will see why stores want to expand to more than one location, when expanding to a “new” state for their business.
Also, it predicts how Idaho Falls will rapidly emulate the growth of Boise.
Idaho Business IQ, while not the most widely read Idaho-themed magazine, may help some better understand what we do and don’t have locally. It is very clear in this article that Idaho Business IQ is watching Idaho Falls to be the next break out city in Idaho.
The author was impressed enough with how the downtown revitalization has been planned and executed, that the May issue of the magazine focuses on Idaho Falls.
DNIX hesitated to make this information available, stating that besides myself and probably Joe, few would be interested. I believe more people are interested in the growth of the city, but perhaps don’t know where to start getting information about it.
I strongly encouraged DNIX to publish this when I found that it has now been added to the Grow Idaho Falls website. I knew it belonged here too, so local people had the chance to discuss what others see.
DNIX found this article about a month ago. KUDDOS DNIX for knowing where to look at for holding your own with those who want to bash I.F.
I recommend this article, despite its length. I will be interested in the views of others, because I promise you, the rest of ID is talking about Idaho Falls. And some who tend to be jealous, just can’t say anything nice when articles like this are printed.
Growth will occur in Bonneville County. Do you want to have a say in how, what and where? Or, do you totally want to leave that to others?
You do have a choice. Please read the article and next month’s magazine (it’s online at no cost) to learn more about plans for Idaho Falls, especially the re-development of downtown.
GREAT JOB DNIX!