Standing on the Boise River Greenbelt at the site of the planned Esther Simplot and River Recreation parks this morning, Mayor Bieter outlined his plan to provide $750,000 to the parks project. The city’s $1.5 million total contribution to the parks would be matched by another $1.5 million in private donations. “The Boise River is the lifeblood of the Treasure Valley, and these new parks will give Boiseans a signature recreation facility on one of the most acclaimed urban rivers in the nation,” the mayor said. “They will also provide a much-needed economic boost to an area of the city that, with a little assistance, offers tremendous potential for revitalization.” | |
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Finally some news on the Boise whitewater park. And it comes from the unexpected corner of The Mayors Office. Boise Mayor David Bieter announced plans today to kick-start development of a new whitewater sports and riverfront park complex on the Boise River, part of a wide range of initiatives designed to protect neighborhoods, control growth, promote a strong economy and deliver cost-effective city services. 
The River Recreation Park, part of the Boise River Recreation and Management Plan adopted by the Boise City Council in December 1999, will provide river sports opportunities through creation of a whitewater stretch in the Boise River downstream from the Main Street bridge. The project, on a section of river that was channelized during the mid-1900s, is being designed to provide a more natural riparian setting and improved fish habitat.
Esther Simplot Park, adjacent to the River Recreation Park and Bernardine Quinn Pond, will feature 55 acres of natural areas, fishing ponds, a playground, picnic areas and shelters, pathways and sports fields. A $1 million gift from J.R. and Esther Simplot in January 2003 allowed the Boise Parks & Recreation Department to complete the purchase of riverfront property for the future Esther Simplot Park. The City of Boise already owned 39 acres, a portion of which was donated by the Quinn-McEntee family.
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