Capitol City Development Contracted Greenbelt Redesign
The development agency hired GGLO to improve safety and restore the riverbank along a stretch of the Boise River.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Remote Work
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Capitol City Development Corp. has contracted GGLO to redesign a three-quarter-mile segment of the Boise River Greenbelt. The project focuses on a high-traffic area between 9th Street and Americana Boulevard within the city's Shoreline District.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to improve public safety by separating pedestrian and bike traffic while mitigating environmental damage. Planners intend to consolidate 40 informal access points to better preserve the riverbank.
The contract for initial design services is valued at $120,000, while the full first phase of the project has an estimated cost of $1.3 million. The redesign covers a 0.75-mile stretch of the Greenbelt containing 40 informal river access points.
The players
Capitol City Development Corp.
This is the urban renewal agency for Boise that manages redevelopment projects within defined districts.
GGLO
This is a design and architecture firm contracted to provide planning services for the Greenbelt.
The details
Architects plan to draft concepts for two separate paths with a dedicated buffer between walkers and bikers to reduce congestion. The design will incorporate boardwalks to protect the shoreline from ongoing erosion.
Timeline
A study regarding pathway typologies was conducted in 2018.
Capitol City Development Corp. contracted GGLO on October 12, 2026.
A public open house for the project is planned for November 2026.
The agency intends to start pursuing city approvals in January 2027.
Market Landscape
This project reflects a broader trend of municipalities investing in urban renewal to balance recreational access with environmental preservation. It positions the Shoreline District for increased utility compared to previous undeveloped riverbank segments.
Local commuters and pedestrians can expect future construction aimed at separating traffic to improve safety and ease navigation. These upgrades seek to formalize access points, which may change common routes or entry paths currently used by residents.
The takeaway
The project demonstrates the challenge of balancing high foot traffic with the preservation of natural riverbanks. Residents should monitor the upcoming public open house to see how path designs might impact their regular commute.
What happens next
The agency will host a public open house in November 2026 and begin the city approval process in January 2027.
Further reading
Find more developments regarding local infrastructure in the Boise Remote Work section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Idaho Statesman.
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