Beautification projects coming to Downtown Idaho Falls

The streets of Downtown Idaho Falls are about to get a facelift. Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corp. is working on many projects for the area. It will beautify the streetscape along Broadway Street from Memorial Drive to Yellowstone Highway by fixing curbs, gutters and sidewalks, replanting trees and working on the irrigation system. It is also going to fix broken and crumbling planter boxes at each downtown intersection.

“What has been kind of lacking is the kind of improvement to the streetscape,” said Catherine Smith with Downtown Development Corp. “So to be able to use these funds to really make permanent changes and improve the condition of the concrete, the sidewalks, make sure that everything’s very aesthetically pleasing. I think it compliments the millions of dollars that are being invested in these buildings.”

The final project will be purchasing parking meters for off-street parking lots. You will be able to pay at the meters with a credit card and there will still be the validation program. These projects are all made possible by a $945,000 grant from the Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency. Downtown Development Corp. said it is great that the city can rely on the agency to get these projects done.

“The best part is to be recognized as a strong, willing and collaborative partner to work with the city in this manner and to be able to really execute these projects,” Smith said.

The projects come along with a lot of other construction happening downtown to renovate old buildings. Store owners and Downtown Development Corp. are working to continue to bring Downtown Idaho Falls to life.

“I really see downtown becoming the place for creativity, for unique experiences,” Smith said. “We’ve said all along that downtown is a place to eat, entertain yourself or find entertainment. I really believe it’s truly its not just a stretch goal it’s actually happening.”

The projects are scheduled to be finished by Nov. 1, 2019.