News Release

Bonneville County has launched an online Community Facilities Survey to gather resident input for its new 20-year Master Facilities Plan and Comprehensive Financial Plan, with submissions due by Oct. 31, 2026.

“The BEA Applied STEM Institute represents an exciting new chapter for STEM education in our region,” said Mary Stephenson, associate vice president of K-14 and Rural Initiatives at CEI. “Through our partnership with BEA, we are creating meaningful opportunities for students to explore STEM fields, build confidence through hands-on learning and prepare for high-demand, high-wage careers in Idaho.”

“The Youth Rally gave me two years of real leadership experience I didn’t get in a classroom: public speaking in front of the whole camp, handling conflict and high-pressure situations, and learning how to delegate and trust the people around me instead of doing it myself,” said Croft. “I’m walking away much more confident and a better leader because of it.”

Work to resurface all lanes of U.S. Highway 20 between Idaho Falls and Rigby begins tonight, promising a smoother ride and extending the lifespan of the roadway.

The City of Idaho Falls is notifying developers, builders, and the public of upcoming changes to the City’s residential impact fee assessment structure that will take effect June 1, 2026.

Impact fees help fund the infrastructure and public facilities needed to support new development, including parks, transportation systems, and public safety facilities. They help ensure growth pays for growth, rather than shifting the cost of new infrastructure and public facilities onto existing taxpayers.

“This was a fast-moving fire in a complex area to access, and our crews executed a strong, coordinated response,” said Idaho Falls Fire Chief Johan Olson. “They did an outstanding job stopping the fire before it could impact nearby businesses or cause significant loss. With the unusually dry conditions we’re experiencing, we urge the public to treat current conditions more like mid-summer. Please use extreme caution with anything that could create sparks around dry vegetation.”

“Funland has always been a special place for generations of families in Idaho Falls, and this restoration honors that history while creating something ready for the future,” said Idaho Falls Zoo Director David Pennock. “Visitors will see and feel the care that has gone into every detail, from the rides to the Log Hut to the overall experience.”

Beginning Monday, April 27, crews will begin a roadway improvement project at the intersection of St. Clair Road and John Adams Parkway.

The City of Idaho Falls is inviting residents and community partners to provide input that will help guide the development of its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2026–2030 Consolidated Plan through two public surveys now available online.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from our community, both this year and in years past,” said Zoo Director David Pennock. “Clean-up Day has become a wonderful tradition, and the dedication our volunteers show year after year makes a lasting impact on the zoo. Their efforts help us create a welcoming environment for our guests and provide the best possible care for our animals.”

The Idaho Falls Police Department recently welcomed Molly, a police therapy dog in training, to the team. Molly, a two-year-old golden retriever, is partnered with Officer Eric Lyke, who is serving as a school resource officer at the Alturas Academy schools.

“This is more than just a regulatory requirement — it’s a blueprint for the future of advanced nuclear,” said INL’s Abdalla Abou-Jaoude, MARVEL microreactor lead. “By receiving approval for our safety documentation, we are now able to share this template with developers to learn from our process and streamline their own timelines.”

Beginning Monday, March 9, crews will begin a roadway and utility reconstruction project on E Street between Memorial Drive and Northgate Mile.

“Dallan’s passion for student success, belief in high expectations, and commitment to partnership make him an outstanding choice to lead Idaho Falls High School,” said Superintendent Karla LaOrange. “I am excited for the future of IFHS and confident that great things will continue under his leadership.”

“This investment allows us to address some of the most pressing space and operational challenges inside the terminal,” said Idaho Falls Regional Airport Director Ian Turner. “We are grateful for the support of Congressman Simpson and our federal partners. This phase of work improves safety and efficiency today while positioning the airport to adapt to growth we anticipate to continue.”

The City of Idaho Falls has been ranked the No. 2 Best-Performing Small City in the nation in the 2026 Milken Institute Best-Performing Cities Report.

“This recognition highlights the consistent efforts of our community, businesses, and workforce to create an environment where opportunity and innovation can thrive,” said Idaho Falls Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw. “Idaho Falls continues to be a city where people and businesses succeed. It truly is a great place to live, raise a family and grow a business.”

“Elm Street is an important part of our community, connecting downtown with South Boulevard,” said Chris Fredericksen, Public Works Director. “The project will improve safety, accessibility, and street conditions for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and students. We encourage everyone to review the plans and provide input by Feb. 15.”

“Being elected to this role is a significant milestone in my journey as a nurse and a Latina mother,” said Silva. “It motivates me to continue breaking barriers, serve my community, and inspire others who face similar challenges to pursue their dreams.” Silva says she’s especially excited to deepen her knowledge of leadership, policy, and advocacy in nursing.

“We want all residents have the opportunity to participate in the decisions that shape our community,” said Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw. “Changing the time of City Council meetings will increase the Council’s efficiency and effectiveness, especially on nights with long agendas. In addition, the new time should make it easier for people to attend the meetings in person or follow along on the livestream.”

Beginning at 7 a.m. Friday, Jan. 9, Union Pacific crews will conduct railroad crossing work at the crossing between N. Holmes Avenue and N. Boulevard. Work is anticipated to be completed by Sunday, Jan. 11.

Mayor-elect Lisa Burtenshaw and elected City Council members will officially be sworn in during the City Council meeting on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 680 Park Ave. Members of the public are welcome to attend and witness the ceremony.

“Increasing human activity in the Stinking Springs area creates additional stress on the mule deer that winter there, requiring them to deplete their supply of stored winter fat more quickly,” said BLM Upper Snake Field Manager John Reffit. “We appreciate the public’s help every year in avoiding this area to help protect these animals.”

In a continual effort to minimize snowplow strikes and increase safety, the Idaho Transportation Department is installing and testing upgraded lighting packages this winter.

“Yes, green means go but it also gets your attention,” ITD Operations Manager Ty Winther said. “And ultimately, that’s what we’re trying to do, what it’s all about- grabbing people’s attention.”

The City of Idaho Falls invites the community to attend the 2026 State of the City Address, featuring Mayor-elect Lisa Burtenshaw.

The address, hosted by the Greater Idaho Falls Association of REALTORS® (GIFAR), will take place during a luncheon on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Doors will open at 11:00 a.m., with lunch served at 11:30 a.m. Mayor Burtenshaw will outline her priorities and vision for the city’s future during her address.