Public Spaces Program

The City of Boise is dedicated to enhancing the public realm in all its forms. The Mobility and Public Spaces team focuses on creating welcoming and inclusive public spaces in all areas of the city. By reimagining and activating public spaces like streets, streetscapes, plazas, and pathways, the Mobility and Public Spaces Program is committed to ensuring vibrant and active spaces are accessible to all.

Creating people-focused public spaces offers a variety of benefits to Boiseans and supports the city's mobility, safety, economic and environmental goals. Expanding Boise's great public spaces, like the 8th street corridor supports local businesses and provides a comfortable place for people to connect, socialize, and experience the community and outdoor spaces.

What is a Public Space?

Public space is space that is open and accessible to the public. There are different types of public spaces, ranging from indoor spaces like libraries or museums, to outdoor spaces like pathways, parks and plazas. Streets and sidewalks are also public spaces, serving the primary purpose of mobility and connection to destinations. Multiple departments at the City of Boise and partner agencies play an important role in creating and maintaining great public spaces for Boiseans to enjoy. The Mobility and Public Spaces Program focuses primarily on the following public space initiatives:

Planning, design and engagement for city-owned or priority public space projects, including 8th Street, first-mile, last-mile connections and safety enhancements.
Pedestrian streets and public space activation programs.
Providing design recommendations and guidance for public realm projects.

Current Public Space Projects and Programs

View of 8th Street once used for vehicle traffic now used by pedestrians lined with businesses.

8th Street Improvements

The city is working with businesses, partner agencies and the community to create a pedestrian-friendly 8th Street. Learn more about upcoming improvements to enhance the safety and accessibility for all users while creating a vibrant public space and business-friendly environment.

Building a Better State Street

Together with our partner agencies, we are building a State Street corridor for all users, where residents can live near the office, recreate, dine and shop in diverse, community-oriented neighborhoods.

Overhead view of Saturday Market with tents lined down 8th street and people mingling amongst them.

Public Space Activation

The city is working with our community partners to develop and implement public space activation events such as Park(ing) Day and Open Streets.

Send a Message to Planning

Thank you for your interest in the Planning division. Please fill out the form below and a representative will be in touch with you. If you are inquiring about a specific project, please include the record number or project address.