Downtown Riverfront Improvements
Boise River Greenbelt, 9th Street to Americana Boulevard

Creating safer pathways, stronger connections, and a more enjoyable riverfront experience

Existing Greenbelt photos near Pioneer Pathway. Photos by Tobin Rogers.

Background

Boise’s riverfront is one of the city’s most heavily used public spaces, serving people who live, work, and visit downtown. The Boise River Greenbelt and surrounding public areas experience high and growing levels of use.

As activity has increased, parts of the riverfront corridor are showing signs of strain. Pathways can feel crowded, access points between downtown and the river are not always clear or easy to navigate, and some public spaces do not fully support today’s level of use. At the same time, the river’s natural environment requires ongoing protection to ensure it remains healthy and resilient.

This project builds on years of community planning, including efforts to improve river access, strengthen connections between downtown and the Boise River Greenbelt, and support a more welcoming and connected riverfront for a growing Boise

 

Project Summary

The Downtown Riverfront Improvements Project is a collaborative multi-year effort with the City of Boise and property owners to improve the Boise River Greenbelt and surrounding public spaces along the north shore of the Boise River between 9th Street and Americana Boulevard.

The project will address current challenges by improving safety and comfort along pathways, creating clearer and more direct connections between downtown and the river, and enhancing public spaces so they better support everyday use and gatherings. It will also improve access for people walking, biking, and visiting nearby businesses and destinations, while supporting long-term river health.

These improvements are designed to benefit residents, downtown workers, visitors, and local businesses by making the riverfront easier to reach and navigate and more enjoyable to use.

 

Project Goals

  • Safer and less crowded Greenbelt pathways
  • Better connections between downtown and the Boise River
  • Easier access to businesses, restaurants, and public spaces
  • More places to relax, gather, and enjoy the riverfront
  • Improved access for walking, biking, and other transportation options
  • Protection of the Boise River’s natural environment

Potential Improvements

  • Wider Greenbelt pathways to reduce crowding
  • Separate spaces for people walking and biking where feasible
  • New connections between downtown streets and the riverfront
  • Improved access to the Boise River
  • Public gathering spaces and riverfront seating areas
  • Enhanced landscaping and habitat improvements
  • Better wayfinding, bike parking, and other amenities
  • Improved crossings and connections for people walking and biking
  • Partnerships that support future riverfront businesses, recreation, and community activity

 

Timeline

  • 2026: Planning and design
  • 2026-2027: Community engagement, design refinement, and coordination with property owners and partner agencies
  • Future Phases: Construction will be completed in stages to reduce impacts and make the best use of available funding

 

Contact

For project specific questions or concerns, please contact CCDC Project Manager, Toby Norton.