Quote from Angela on March 27, 2021, 7:21 pm

BOISE RIVER GREENBELT - KEEPING COMMUNITIES CONNECTED

The City of Boise believes that everyone should be free to access the great outdoors.

Boises' iconic historical Greenbelt pathway has a truly great history with some wonderfully inspirational beginnings and today is continually evolving as Boises ever expanding network of easily accessible community pathways.

The initial incentives dealing with the projection of the pathway was held by the Atkins Associates in 1962 who were appointed by the City of Boise who sought to implement a public recreational pathway running through Boise City with access to water and specified rest areas.

This pathway would serve as easily accessible connection route to local campuses, parks and outdoor spaces and by 1968 a 'plan of development' was sent to Boise Government who set about allocating funds in order to develop Idahos rugged landscape to incorporate new and urban developments.

Plans were drawn up and asphalt was laid. The pathway was perfectly integrated through the public Municipal Golf Course along the length of the Boise River. In 1967 a grassroots enterprise saw a massive clean up operation of the local lakes and three substantial plots of land were donated to Boise to aid the greenbelt launch. The public were excited and plans flourished and excelled.

Discussions were held regarding opening up the land located between the 8th Street Bridge and the Americana Bridge and constructions were well underway by 1970 the Board of Parks Commissioners had drawn up their very first Greenbelt Plan and Guidelines document.

The outer joining banks provided a fantastic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and families to escape the every day mundane and embark on some truly sacred scenic views with bicycle routes provided. 

The Greenbelt trail length in total today stretches over thirty miles long, beginning at the Lucky Peak Dam right through to Eagle. With points of interest along the way such as The Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Warm Springs Golf Course, views of Table Rock, the Gene Harris Bandshell, the Fallen Firefighter Memorial, the Solar System Model, the Lynn Henneman Cenotaph, Plantation Island and Merrill Park, is it any wonder this trail is so popular with families today.

There is an easy to follow DOTS 'Distance and Orientation Trail' system. These are meant as an aid in helping people pinpoint their exact location. There are over 100 painted dots throughout the trail.

Idaho ought to feel proud knowing that they have provided multi use pathways accessible to all! Regardless of which neighbourhood you live, or where you're from, this pathway is today encouraging folks to get outside! 

Today, the City of Boise are excited about the new Boise with Canal Pathways Programme which will see further connectivity. This is another great opportunity provided by Idaho. 

You see the great thing about Idaho is that things don't stand still, we are forever evolving, continually regenerating and honourably welcoming high standard incentives to maintain our trademark heart of 'community care'.

This iconic pathway is more than just a necessity or recreational path, it is building bridges, creating suburban bonds and literally paving the way for Idahos future generations.

This is exactly why living in Idaho is considered a true honour!

#historicalboise #thisplacematters #historicalidaho #historicalmeridian #savingplaces #historicalpreservation #cityofboise