Idaho Falls City officials are considering a significant expansion of the Riverside Urban Renewal District, which could unlock millions in funding for future community projects. During a recent meeting, discussions highlighted the potential for the district to generate between $23 million and $27 million by its conclusion, prompting the need to evaluate its boundaries.

Consultant Brad presented the findings, noting that the current district may not encompass enough area to accommodate all proposed projects. He suggested that expanding the district could provide the necessary space for development, particularly along Pioneer Road, which is expected to see future improvements. This expansion could delay the approval timeline for the district until March or April 2026, as opposed to the original goal of finalizing it by the end of this year.

The board is weighing several options: they could proceed with the current boundaries, expand them, or finalize the district as is and consider future annexations. Brad emphasized the importance of capturing additional land to maximize funding opportunities, especially given the anticipated revenue from ongoing developments in the area.

Ball Ventures, a key stakeholder, expressed interest in pausing the current plan to facilitate the expansion, recognizing the potential benefits of additional funding for road improvements. The discussions also touched on various development interests near the Mountain America Event Center, although no concrete projects have been submitted yet.

As the city moves forward, the decision on whether to expand the Riverside Urban Renewal District could significantly impact future development and funding for community projects, making it a pivotal moment for Idaho Falls.