UPDATE: Boise City Council members approved the purchase outlined in this news release at the Tuesday, July 21 council meeting.
The City of Boise is proposing the use of levy funds to purchase 325 acres in the northwest Boise Foothills. The land, owned by Highland Livestock and Land Co. Ltd., is situated north of Pierce Park Road between Cartwright Road and Seaman’s Gulch Road. If approved by Boise City Council, this would be the largest open space preservation purchase the city has made since 2017. The total purchase price for the property is approximately $1.2 million dollars ($3,750 per acre).
The property currently allows for public access thanks to the work of the Land Trust of the Treasure Valley and the owner. For several years, the Land Trust has worked with the property owner to ensure trail connectivity between Cartwright Road and the developing Cartwright Ranch area. The Land Trust had a vision for this property and facilitated this purchase. In purchasing the property, the City of Boise will protect this beloved area and ensure the conservation of important wildlife habitat. This acquisition will also allow for future trail connectivity within the popular Ridge to Rivers Trail System.
“This purchase showcases the best of who we are and what we value as a community,” said Boise Mayor Lauren McLean. “As always, we remain dedicated to ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural amenities we all cherish in the foothills.”
In 2015, Boise voters approved a $10 million levy to support the preservation of open space and the implementation of habitat and clean water improvement projects in areas such as the Boise Foothills and the Boise River. To date, the city has spent approximately $200,000 of the $10 million in the levy fund.
“We’d like to thank the Little family for providing free trail access on their properties throughout the foothills for over 25 years and working with us on this important acquisition,” said Doug Holloway, Boise Parks and Recreation director. “This is part of a long legacy of partnership between the city and private landowners to preserve the open spaces that make Boise the beautiful place it is to call home.”
Boise City Council members will consider the purchase agreement at their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, July 21 at 6 p.m. The meeting will be streamed live online.
