We had another great turnout for our 59 Minute Meeting on May 1st! Thank you for joining us and engaging in conversations around local public policy issues.
Our guests were Garden City Mayor John Evans and Director of Development Services Jenah Thornborrow. Mayor Evans talked about some of Garden City’s stats; such as how it occupies just over four-square miles of land, six miles of river, and is home to over 2,000 businesses and 12,000 residents. The Boise River and three major highways run through Garden City: Chinden, State, and Glenwood.
The Mayor and Thornborrow also discussed new residential developments, a new charter school, partnerships between Garden City and the City of Boise for the whitewater park and the 36th Street bridge, and the possible future of the fairgrounds. The mayor mentioned the success they’ve seen in creating affordable housing by partnering with NeighborWorks Boise on several projects.
As numerous new businesses have sprouted up in town, residents and business owners are increasingly creating a sense of place by adding murals and art to otherwise blank buildings. The commercial growth in Garden City isn’t limited to new buildings, many businesses are creatively reusing existing spaces.
In the Surel Mitchell Live-Work-Create District, between 32nd and 37th streets on the north side of Chinden Blvd, the artistic community is thriving. The district features the greenbelt, Boise River, wineries, breweries, the Visual Arts Collective, and various other art studios and galleries.
The Q & A portion of the meeting focused on the fairgrounds, instant horse-racing initiative, and new developments along the river.
REALTOR® advocacy will continue to play an important role in planning as our region grows. Click here to learn how RPAC works to elect REALTOR® Champions who embrace smart growth principals, private property rights, and thoughtful community development strategies.
Additional resources:
- Slides from the 59 Minute Meeting
- Garden City’s Comprehensive Plan
- Garden City Artisan Wayfinding Signs and Maps
- River Front District Projects
- River Front East Project Area
Thank you again for joining us and be on the lookout for information regarding our next 59 Minute Meeting in the near future!
