Finally some news on the Boise whitewater park. And it comes from the unexpected corner of The Mayors Office. Boise Mayor David Bieter announced plans today to kick-start development of a new whitewater sports and riverfront park complex on the Boise River, part of a wide range of initiatives designed to protect neighborhoods, control growth, promote a strong economy and deliver cost-effective city services.

Standing on the Boise River Greenbelt at the site of the planned Esther Simplot and River Recreation parks this morning, Mayor Bieter outlined his plan to provide $750,000 to the parks project. The city’s $1.5 million total contribution to the parks would be matched by another $1.5 million in private donations.

“The Boise River is the lifeblood of the Treasure Valley, and these new parks will give Boiseans a signature recreation facility on one of the most acclaimed urban rivers in the nation,” the mayor said. “They will also provide a much-needed economic boost to an area of the city that, with a little assistance, offers tremendous potential for revitalization.”