Spaulding Ranch was acquired by the City of Boise in 2016 and is the first property of its kind in Boise Parks and Recreation’s inventory. The site was designated as a local historic district in 1996 and the large, 20-acre destination features a barn, main house and acreage for agricultural plots and pathways.
Vision
To create a dynamic community gathering space where residents and visitors can learn about the past, present and future or urban agriculture in Boise, Idaho.
Recent Investments and Current Work
- The road with access through the Spaulding Ranch Park Site is completed and open.
- Boise Parks and Recreation’s agriculture team is working with partners to plant cover crops annually and irrigate the fields.
- Global Gardens has a farmer working on the property. They will grow and manage their own produce at Spaulding Ranch.
- The project team is working to develop additional community partnerships to further grow and establish this unique park site.
Next Steps
- Parks and Recreation’s Design and Development team is working on a detailed design plan for the grounds including completion of the irrigation system, pathways throughout the property, shade structures and a restroom/wash station.
- Tuttle-Spaulding Pathway: This pathway will provide a safe and accessible bicycle and pedestrian connection for users of all ages and abilities, knitting together Boise’s West Bench neighborhoods. The pathway will connect Cole Road to Milwaukee Street near Capitol High School, running along the Tuttle Lateral within the Spaulding Ranch Park and north of Milwaukee Park. Learn More.
Master Plan
The Master Plan is a concept drawing illustrating recreation facilities and landscape features planned for a park site. It does not necessarily represent what amenities are currently in a park.
Download Master PlanHistoric District
In 1996, the City of Boise designated Spaulding Ranch as a local historic district.
Spaulding Ranch History
Almon and Mary Spaulding came to Idaho in 1896 and created the Spaulding homestead. Originally a 100-acre farm, the City of Boise purchased the remaining 20-acres in 2016 to create what will be will be the unique destination for food education and engagement. Spaulding Ranch is a small part of a larger history of agriculture in Idaho. More than a farm, it will be a dynamic community gathering space that showcases the past, present and future of agriculture and food. Here you will find local partners working together to showcase each and every element of the community food system model. Grow. Eat. Share. The visionary plan intends to revive urban agriculture within the City, preserve the rich and unique history of the site and provide an amenity that will be an asset to the neighborhood and the region.
Project completion estimates are subject to change due to volatility in the construction industry. Current challenges include material availability, rising costs, supply chain disruptions, staffing shortages and more. Boise Parks and Recreation will update project timelines as needed if delays occur.
Send a Message to Parks and Rec
For other after hours park related emergencies (i.e. irrigation issues, restrooms), please call (208) 489-6640.