In a recent meeting of the Idaho Falls City Redevelopment Agency, discussions centered around the future of several key development sites in the city, particularly focusing on a new hotel project and the potential for further redevelopment along the riverfront.

The meeting revealed that a hotel, developed in partnership with Woodbury, is on track to begin construction this year. This project is seen as a significant step forward for the area, which has been earmarked for revitalization. The agency expressed optimism about the hotel’s potential to stimulate further development in the vicinity.

However, not all sites are poised for immediate development. The agency discussed two additional parcels that currently lack identified partners but are expected to be ready for development within the next three years. In contrast, vacant sites along the river were deemed unlikely to see any significant progress in the next three to five years. The agency emphasized the importance of being cautious about including these areas in redevelopment plans prematurely, ensuring that only sites with realistic timelines are considered.

The conversation also touched on the need for a broader perspective on potential future developments. While the current focus is on the identified parcels, there is an acknowledgment that having preliminary information on other lands could facilitate quicker decision-making and cost-effective planning in the future.

As the meeting concluded, members were encouraged to review the eligibility report for the proposed sites and to bring any questions or concerns to the next discussion. The agency remains committed to fostering development that aligns with the city’s growth objectives while being mindful of the timelines and partnerships necessary for success.