Tammy Bixby
Tammy Bixby's projects
Recent Activity
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
in response to April regarding has anybody spoke to planning I personally and some supporters of my also make some calls and emails requesting just what you suggested and if we all get busy doing such a thing and they scare them off or it may indeed grant us an audience. It would be great if someone like yourself or Miss King would represent . I understand the importance of being articulate.
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
I find the City's responses routinely superficial. The Library and the stadium will be the largest taxpayer-funded municipal projects in our City's history (the airport's capital projects are paid for by user fees and Airport Revenue Bonds) yet City Hall will not allow a vote? And puts up a defense that efforts to force a vote on large City and CCDC expenditures are anti-Boise? Nothing could be the truth: Citizens' desires to have a say in these huge projects--that they will pay for extensively--is pro-Boise.
I find the City's responses routinely superficial. The Library and the stadium will be the largest taxpayer-funded municipal projects in our City's history (the airport's capital projects are paid for by user fees and Airport Revenue Bonds) yet City Hall will not allow a vote? And puts up a defense that efforts to force a vote on large City and CCDC expenditures are anti-Boise? Nothing could be the truth: Citizens' desires to have a say in these huge projects--that they will pay for extensively--is pro-Boise.
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
April LOrange
Okay, I think we've about accomplished what we can accomplish through online discourse. We all see the questions that never get answered. I think we need to speak to the planning department in person, and based on that, begin bending the ear of individual councilpeople. I'm going to try and schedule a face-to-face with the appropriate person in the planning department, whoever that turns out to be. I have a list of questions and concerns (already posted elsewhere on this board) I'll take with me. I've added bird strikes to it. I'll report back with any findings.
Any of y'all know how to contact folks privately through this board? If we're going to approach city councilpeople individually, it might be useful to coordinate, but really doesn't belong on this board.
Okay, I think we've about accomplished what we can accomplish through online discourse. We all see the questions that never get answered. I think we need to speak to the planning department in person, and based on that, begin bending the ear of individual councilpeople. I'm going to try and schedule a face-to-face with the appropriate person in the planning department, whoever that turns out to be. I have a list of questions and concerns (already posted elsewhere on this board) I'll take with me. I've added bird strikes to it. I'll report back with any findings.
Any of y'all know how to contact folks privately through this board? If we're going to approach city councilpeople individually, it might be useful to coordinate, but really doesn't belong on this board.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
M. Thomas
City of Boise - no new taxes? How will the $35 million in lease financing payments be paid? How will the parts being cut out now for “value engineering” be paid for in future years when they are added (events center, arts & history if cut)? What is the 5year estimate for increases to maintenance, operations, and personnel? What guarantee do we have that this project will not meet “unexpected cost overruns” like the recent bond-supported fire station? There is no reason not to give us a vote on a library bond. Let us vote!
City of Boise - no new taxes? How will the $35 million in lease financing payments be paid? How will the parts being cut out now for “value engineering” be paid for in future years when they are added (events center, arts & history if cut)? What is the 5year estimate for increases to maintenance, operations, and personnel? What guarantee do we have that this project will not meet “unexpected cost overruns” like the recent bond-supported fire station? There is no reason not to give us a vote on a library bond. Let us vote!
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
M. Thomas
More and more property taxes are diverted into CCDC by taking larger and larger swaths of our city as urban renewal districts. Values are rising regardless of URDs. What would our property tax bills look like with no URDs in place?
More and more property taxes are diverted into CCDC by taking larger and larger swaths of our city as urban renewal districts. Values are rising regardless of URDs. What would our property tax bills look like with no URDs in place?
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
April LOrange
We aren't complaining about *a* new library. We're complaining about *this particular design*. What is functional in Salt Lake City won't be here, due to differences in climate and orientation. What's beautiful in Salt Lake City, where they've built quite a bit from pale stone, sticks out like a store thumb in an area made of red brick. Accept that we aren't anti-LIBRARY. Meet us halfway, and let's talk about how to meet the needs of our community at large, not the able-bodied folks who drive to Salt Lake City in particular.
We aren't complaining about *a* new library. We're complaining about *this particular design*. What is functional in Salt Lake City won't be here, due to differences in climate and orientation. What's beautiful in Salt Lake City, where they've built quite a bit from pale stone, sticks out like a store thumb in an area made of red brick. Accept that we aren't anti-LIBRARY. Meet us halfway, and let's talk about how to meet the needs of our community at large, not the able-bodied folks who drive to Salt Lake City in particular.
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
E.B. Schofield
Complaints versus serious concerns and unanswered questions regarding the true costs and the impact on all taxpayers are two different issues. Although supporters of this project state there are no new taxes, that does not mean your existing taxes will not be increased to cover this very long-term debt, including an as yet unkown amount of transaction fees and interest for the Lease Financing component.
Complaints versus serious concerns and unanswered questions regarding the true costs and the impact on all taxpayers are two different issues. Although supporters of this project state there are no new taxes, that does not mean your existing taxes will not be increased to cover this very long-term debt, including an as yet unkown amount of transaction fees and interest for the Lease Financing component.
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
E.B. Schofield
City of Boise - No new taxes and no increase in taxes? Can you guarantee that without shuffling and spinning numbers? Boise City has increased taxes at the statutorily allowed 3% per year, year over year. I have yet to read any City financial reports or watched any budget sessions where the City opts for NOT taking the 3% increase. If such exist, please provide an answer as to where I can view the proof that taxes have not increased in the past, and therefore will not increase in the future. Adding a $85-$103 million dollar project and saying this will not increase taxes is fooling yourself, but not the public. A "new" tax - if in the form of a levy - would actually be a postitive view point, as this would mean the citizens were fully included and voted in support for a project and the debt they will be obligated to pay.
City of Boise - No new taxes and no increase in taxes? Can you guarantee that without shuffling and spinning numbers? Boise City has increased taxes at the statutorily allowed 3% per year, year over year. I have yet to read any City financial reports or watched any budget sessions where the City opts for NOT taking the 3% increase. If such exist, please provide an answer as to where I can view the proof that taxes have not increased in the past, and therefore will not increase in the future. Adding a $85-$103 million dollar project and saying this will not increase taxes is fooling yourself, but not the public. A "new" tax - if in the form of a levy - would actually be a postitive view point, as this would mean the citizens were fully included and voted in support for a project and the debt they will be obligated to pay.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
I strolled through our beloved Library yesterday, and the Anne Frank Memorial. Gazed lovingly on the cabin the serenity of all that surrounds it. I did this is a memorial not only to those buildings but you myself as well to remember them as were before their demolished and forgotten.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Thank you April words and Pearls of Wisdom
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
April LOrange
Speaking of the planning department, has anyone gone in and spoken with them in person yet? City planners don't necessarily get to suit themselves in this process--their job is to make it happen, whether "it" comes from a supervisor, a department head, or a mayor/city manager. A face-to-face might get us a better read on where exactly this is coming from. It would at least make it harder for them to ignore some of these questions that simply go unanswered through online channels.
Speaking of the planning department, has anyone gone in and spoken with them in person yet? City planners don't necessarily get to suit themselves in this process--their job is to make it happen, whether "it" comes from a supervisor, a department head, or a mayor/city manager. A face-to-face might get us a better read on where exactly this is coming from. It would at least make it harder for them to ignore some of these questions that simply go unanswered through online channels.
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
http://www.slcdocs.com/Planning/MasterPlansMaps/LS.pdf
http://www.slcdocs.com/Planning/MasterPlansMaps/LS.pdf
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
https://www.spl.org/about-us/the-organization/budget-and-operations/library-levy
https://www.spl.org/about-us/the-organization/budget-and-operations/library-levy
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
https://boisedev.com/news/2019/02/19/boise-library-anne-frank-tree/
https://boisedev.com/news/2019/02/19/boise-library-anne-frank-tree/
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
And it is important to note that the Salt Lake City and Seattle libraries, often touted as similar to Boise's plan, both received a bond levy vote from the citizens, which has been denied to date by our City Hall. By my count, this and the stadium will be the largest taxpayer-funded projects in the City of Boise' history. If we vote for fire stations, foothills preservation, and school bonds, we deserve the right to vote on these extremely large projects.
And it is important to note that the Salt Lake City and Seattle libraries, often touted as similar to Boise's plan, both received a bond levy vote from the citizens, which has been denied to date by our City Hall. By my count, this and the stadium will be the largest taxpayer-funded projects in the City of Boise' history. If we vote for fire stations, foothills preservation, and school bonds, we deserve the right to vote on these extremely large projects.
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Christine King
Exactly, April. Many have noted concerns they have with the design and cost of this library, yet our civic input is being considered annoying complaints. I have yet to see the city address these issues, only "we are working on it". Right, the city didn't have it together to announce that The Cabin would be moved until the day before the plan was revealed, they were 50% low on relocation expenses and changed the new location how many times. I have no faith in our city planners, none. It's all about a world-famous architect, look at Salt Lake, we need a library to reflect our fabulous Boise. I think our current library is "nice", the goal seemingly is not an attractive, functional structure, the purpose of a library, but glitz and ego. Form follows function in Boise resulted in JUMP.
Exactly, April. Many have noted concerns they have with the design and cost of this library, yet our civic input is being considered annoying complaints. I have yet to see the city address these issues, only "we are working on it". Right, the city didn't have it together to announce that The Cabin would be moved until the day before the plan was revealed, they were 50% low on relocation expenses and changed the new location how many times. I have no faith in our city planners, none. It's all about a world-famous architect, look at Salt Lake, we need a library to reflect our fabulous Boise. I think our current library is "nice", the goal seemingly is not an attractive, functional structure, the purpose of a library, but glitz and ego. Form follows function in Boise resulted in JUMP.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Sorry Christine.. Misplaced my glasses . I attempted talk to text...I am too curious of a design plan to prevent bird deaths. I wondered if they were considering a "roll down" screen to prevent that. The the vehicle traffic on the Capitol Street coming off the bridge will also be impacted by the glare from the mirrored windows. My hope is, the design will eliminate that type of window and not install a type of screen..( I read that was a optional design change).
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Christine King
Thank you, Tammy. A screen, for glare? Whaaat?
Thank you, Tammy. A screen, for glare? Whaaat?
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Are they also going to put a weirdo type of screen to protect our drivers coming across the capitol bridge.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
I appreciate Christine King for making her notable and wonderful comments and bringing to attention the difficulties in the absolute non-communication between the city and its people. However I'm not on board with the city's responses. The fact remains can we sit here every day trying to elicit a conversation and yet nothing seems to happen when I set an attendance regarding the cabin it was shocking to see how unaware the entire council was of the entire issue. The absolute also unaccountability is unacceptable. Ignorance is beyond belief. What do we do when your city's elected officials are not doing a job and we can use to represent the actual people who live here reside here and will use or not use this facility?
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Christine King
Thank you for your reply. I mentioned building costs when I compared Missoula's new library, that city has secured contracts so there will be no surprises at the end. However, Boise was 50% low in the projected cost of moving The Library, that gives me little confidence. Many of us have expressed concern about the expansive glass and possible bird strikes, glare and damage to materials. We were told this is being taken into consideration, yet have heard nothing for months. If design changes will be made, that just may effect building expenses. Has the city secured any guaranteed contracts from builders in order to keep this within $85-80 million?
Thank you for your reply. I mentioned building costs when I compared Missoula's new library, that city has secured contracts so there will be no surprises at the end. However, Boise was 50% low in the projected cost of moving The Library, that gives me little confidence. Many of us have expressed concern about the expansive glass and possible bird strikes, glare and damage to materials. We were told this is being taken into consideration, yet have heard nothing for months. If design changes will be made, that just may effect building expenses. Has the city secured any guaranteed contracts from builders in order to keep this within $85-80 million?
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
The new classroom there has impacted usage of the west side of The Cabin. The Garden with the Rose Beal Tree at the Anne Frank Memorial was found recently to be very close to the new Lubrary building scheme. So the City is moving the new Library footprint back to protect the tree.
The new classroom there has impacted usage of the west side of The Cabin. The Garden with the Rose Beal Tree at the Anne Frank Memorial was found recently to be very close to the new Lubrary building scheme. So the City is moving the new Library footprint back to protect the tree.
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Christine King
Oh my gosh, Diane, that is important information, thank you. I have family in Missoula, MT., one is a librarian. They are also building a new library, there has been some controversy, but the city has included the community in every aspect, including passing a bond vote. A very significant detail is the costs have been locked in for quite a while, I have no doubt Boise is not going to be able to keep cost within the margin they promised.
Oh my gosh, Diane, that is important information, thank you. I have family in Missoula, MT., one is a librarian. They are also building a new library, there has been some controversy, but the city has included the community in every aspect, including passing a bond vote. A very significant detail is the costs have been locked in for quite a while, I have no doubt Boise is not going to be able to keep cost within the margin they promised.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Obviously there has been a shift and ideals a waste of our taxpayers money waste of all the efforts of those who have implemented that former master plan and apparently a master plan means nothing at all and that should be obliterated and possibly we need to change
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
I think we need to redirect our concerns to another area and that is our Senators here right here in Boise considering we are the capital and maybe there has been an influence from them that have moved this project forward I'm just saying...
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
There are few words left in my vocabulary to express my disgust and disdain for our local government. I have been considering the new bill that a newbie Republican Senate wants to make it more difficult for us to petition and bring things to Capitol Hill. It occurs to me that perhaps this is just where our problem lies perhaps it's the Capital that is causing this Strife amongst as Citizens here in Boise. It is not inconceivable that their vote their behind-closed-door dealings have influenced our city politicians to move forward with this horrendous idea of a library that is disgusting
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
Awesome...your words made me cringe and giggle.. truth is I understand your position and support it and I obviously have supported you
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 4 months ago
David Klinger
Perhaps there will be some leftover construction materials from the forthcoming “beautiful concrete wall” along the U.S.-Mexico border that might be diverted to Boise to guarantee the security of “The Cabin” in its new water-saturated site. Or a moat could be dug. There’s no end to imaginative, over-engineered solutions when money is endless, green space can be sacrificed, and history doesn’t matter anymore.
Perhaps there will be some leftover construction materials from the forthcoming “beautiful concrete wall” along the U.S.-Mexico border that might be diverted to Boise to guarantee the security of “The Cabin” in its new water-saturated site. Or a moat could be dug. There’s no end to imaginative, over-engineered solutions when money is endless, green space can be sacrificed, and history doesn’t matter anymore.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
I think that the words possibly retain it's historic National Registry is lame absolutely lame the city leaders once again have failed.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Is it too much to think or to have expected it, the design for a new library should have used the cabin is inspiration to compliment the new design for a library using Timber compressed wood beams? What we have been given is a design that's been in every single City that this man has designed a building and apparently according to the council all of Jerusalem was built by the same architect so says the rabbi from Boise. I find all this disturbing. What we could have had is a lovely unique I repeat unique Library with all the state-of-the-art amenities and yet kept the loveliness of our forest a river and implemented that with the design and created a truly spectacular Library. Mike Journey the deputy mayor when interviewed by the Idaho Press stated that they gave the architect a few guidelines to go by but none of those directions included the cabin and the garden Anne Frank Memorial. I question why was that not included, my answer to my own question, is that the city didn't care don't care don't want it.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
What we would have been proud of is it a unique design that incorporated that use the cabin is inspiration for design of a new library using Timber compressed wood and still have all the state-of-the-art utilities supplies and Design. Instead of looking like every other library and building this architect has designed we could have been unique and used our Forestry and our lovely city of trees as a lovely backdrop to a building that complemented it. I think the city is misguided and ultimately have failed us
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
E.B. Schofield
City of Boise - What is the actual amount it would cost the City to buy out the lease?
City of Boise - What is the actual amount it would cost the City to buy out the lease?
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
It is an enormous failure of strategic planning that the Biomark lease was given, when there had long been plans for a rebuild of the Library next door. The fact that we are stuck with the Biomark warehouse and the precious cabin building is jettisoned to a flood plain tells you all you need to know about this very flawed process.
It is an enormous failure of strategic planning that the Biomark lease was given, when there had long been plans for a rebuild of the Library next door. The fact that we are stuck with the Biomark warehouse and the precious cabin building is jettisoned to a flood plain tells you all you need to know about this very flawed process.
Supported a comment by Margaret Koger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Margaret Koger
I should think they could raise the main library and put a parking lot under it so we could park and see the greenbelt from the new facility.
I should think they could raise the main library and put a parking lot under it so we could park and see the greenbelt from the new facility.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Well said April
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
April LOrange
Dear City of Boise: I appreciate your response. It doesn't address my concerns. Can you see seniors with walkers coming from a block it two away? It may be the closest parking, but by the time you've come all the way around from Biomark to the proposed main entrance, it's a serious hike for someone with, say, rheumatoid arthritis. This facility is supposed to serve our community as a whole, not just the able-bodied.
Dear City of Boise: I appreciate your response. It doesn't address my concerns. Can you see seniors with walkers coming from a block it two away? It may be the closest parking, but by the time you've come all the way around from Biomark to the proposed main entrance, it's a serious hike for someone with, say, rheumatoid arthritis. This facility is supposed to serve our community as a whole, not just the able-bodied.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
I still find it extraordinary that 7 applications were turned in and all had included the design plan the only one that did not have a design plan turned in was the only one accepted. I found it when doing my homework interesting councilman Ludwick had stated to the Idaho press that he didn't think it was a good idea for the cabin moved to the maintenance area which of all places would have been the best location for the cabin, he said that it jeopardize in monetizing situation in the future. The city offered the cabin that spot and his cabinet agreed the cabin was later told that spot was being removed off the table obviously because Ludwig felt he would he know the city would stand to make any money by allowing the cabin there so they're willing to spend $650,000 to move the cabin into an unsecured unstable floodplain area which is going to cost more money than $650,000 this is all fascinating
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
I was at the last meeting I was not encouraged truly by the lack of knowledge everything all persons on the city council obviously did not know
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Christine King
Yes, and how will these mitigating practices address other concerns about potential glare to drivers, heating and cooling costs, and potential damage to materials from exposure to bright sunlight?
Yes, and how will these mitigating practices address other concerns about potential glare to drivers, heating and cooling costs, and potential damage to materials from exposure to bright sunlight?
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
E.B. Schofield
City of Boise - Page 4 of the December 13, 2018 Library Meeting Minutes say, "The bird strike issue noted in the previous public comment phase has been resolved and just needs communicated to the public. Two options were provided by Safdi Architects and need to be costed." Why not provide that information ASAP - citizens want to know.
City of Boise - Page 4 of the December 13, 2018 Library Meeting Minutes say, "The bird strike issue noted in the previous public comment phase has been resolved and just needs communicated to the public. Two options were provided by Safdi Architects and need to be costed." Why not provide that information ASAP - citizens want to know.
Supported a comment by Johnie Thompson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Johnie Thompson
("how that will be accomplished") Neither does the city, they'll say whatever they think will mollify the citizens who are opposed to this folly that hasn't been voted on (crammed down our throats).
("how that will be accomplished") Neither does the city, they'll say whatever they think will mollify the citizens who are opposed to this folly that hasn't been voted on (crammed down our throats).
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Christine King
The city said they would work to mitigate bird strikes on all that glass, I have no idea how that will be accomplished.
The city said they would work to mitigate bird strikes on all that glass, I have no idea how that will be accomplished.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
The one thing that was truly overlooked is the fact that the cabin was offered the maintenance area which takes up a huge portion of the park. The city offered the maintenance area to the cabin they accepted. Then what happened with Scott Ludwick councilman, send to the Idaho Press we don't think that's a great idea because it will prevent a future monetizing situation. So it's going to cost $600,000 to move the cabin to an absolutely insecure area. I know because I'm there every day. It is always a mess with flooding Etc. I'm just wondering honestly what the heck is going on behind closed doors. I found it all so fascinating that when all submitted applications all of them submitted design plans yet the current architect submitted an application with no designplan. I believe that this is a sham. Also known to that my Journeys clearly stated that when they told the architect to design they told him to do whatever he wanted they gave him certain instructions about certain things but two things they did not instruct him on and that was yes, the cabin and the garden Anne Frank Memorial
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
E.B. Schofield
The issue of The Cabin can be summarized in 2 simple statements - 1. It is not necessary to move it. 2. Not moving it costs nothing from the public purse. The disruption to the literary program's functioning for a year or two is "a cost" - but this is no different than the cost we all pay when development in our neighborhoods and ACHD road construction to accomodate growth disrupts our lives.
The issue of The Cabin can be summarized in 2 simple statements - 1. It is not necessary to move it. 2. Not moving it costs nothing from the public purse. The disruption to the literary program's functioning for a year or two is "a cost" - but this is no different than the cost we all pay when development in our neighborhoods and ACHD road construction to accomodate growth disrupts our lives.
Supported a comment by Mike Turner on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
Mike Turner
I'm in favor of moving the Cabin and the new design, here is why... I am a supporter of the Cabin organization, and love what they do for the community. My kids have taken workshop classes there. My wife has taught classes there and was even a member of their board for a period of time. But I fully support moving the building. Parking is always a nightmare. The building itself is not what makes it valuable to the community, it's the organization behind it, and appears the leadership of the Cabin is in full support of moving the cabin to more favorable location. I love the new library design. The current main library is a dinosaur. I like how the City found creative ways to fund the project without having to raise taxes. I believe many folks who have concerns about the project now, will ultimately be extremely happy and proud of the new addition to our awesome city. This is the type of growth I love to see, because I believe it only enriches our community.
I'm in favor of moving the Cabin and the new design, here is why... I am a supporter of the Cabin organization, and love what they do for the community. My kids have taken workshop classes there. My wife has taught classes there and was even a member of their board for a period of time. But I fully support moving the building. Parking is always a nightmare. The building itself is not what makes it valuable to the community, it's the organization behind it, and appears the leadership of the Cabin is in full support of moving the cabin to more favorable location. I love the new library design. The current main library is a dinosaur. I like how the City found creative ways to fund the project without having to raise taxes. I believe many folks who have concerns about the project now, will ultimately be extremely happy and proud of the new addition to our awesome city. This is the type of growth I love to see, because I believe it only enriches our community.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
The city of Boise has taken a high hand and telling the community what we want. Anything that cost so much money and it's going to completely obliterate a historical monument must have public opinion and must have that opinion wait in heavily. The ignorance of our city leaders is astounding. There is few that I have spoke with and interacted with disagree. It is in my opinion did our city leaders have been weighed measured and found wanting
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 5 months ago
David Klinger
I think we have sufficient “shining icons” in Boise in the form of a river, some foothills, and a wonderful populace, thank you. A Massachusetts architect’s “vision” for our city cannot embelish on the intrinsic values of our community. You have to live here to understand here.
I think we have sufficient “shining icons” in Boise in the form of a river, some foothills, and a wonderful populace, thank you. A Massachusetts architect’s “vision” for our city cannot embelish on the intrinsic values of our community. You have to live here to understand here.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
for so many years we have watched the destruction and removal of so many of our storical landmarks and wonder where they are today. There was an article I read that stated hollowell the director of Parks and recreation sister collecting mothballs in basements. Are they going to bury our cabin too?
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
respectfully I say to you it's not a matter of not wanting to improve our library situation, it is the ostentatious, and a complete regard for our heritage.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
The elected government here in my opinion has been weighed measured and found wanting...
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
My reply hypothetical situation that perhaps this was a plant thought-out well performed idea
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
she make such broad statements but I wonder if you live in the vicinity how it will impact you and your visits to the library I wonder if you really in the end a door ostentatious idea and I'm not being rude really I'm not I'm just wondering why are you so excited
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
I hope that everyone is aware of a petition on change.org on behalf of our cabin I'll try to load up the blank
Supported a comment by Johnie Thompson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
Johnie Thompson
We are being "steamrolled! We elect them to represent us & give careful consideration to what we want & then we get what they or someone else in city government tells them they want. The answer is to VOTE for some one that WILL represent us!
We are being "steamrolled! We elect them to represent us & give careful consideration to what we want & then we get what they or someone else in city government tells them they want. The answer is to VOTE for some one that WILL represent us!
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
I was at that meeting November 27, 2018. There was no “review” or “careful consideration” of those 322 comments. City staff just mentioned it, —and mentioned that 60% of the commenters wanted the cabin to stay in its current location. The Council spent more time discussing the depth of the sewer line near one of the proposed locations in Julia Davis Park than they ever did discussing those comments. In fact, there was absolutely no discussion of the comments. I’m very tired of the city selectively advising the public of information that supports the Mayor and Council’s decisions which don’t reflect a large majority of the opinions submitted to the city by the public. It is a misrepresentation of the facts.
I was at that meeting November 27, 2018. There was no “review” or “careful consideration” of those 322 comments. City staff just mentioned it, —and mentioned that 60% of the commenters wanted the cabin to stay in its current location. The Council spent more time discussing the depth of the sewer line near one of the proposed locations in Julia Davis Park than they ever did discussing those comments. In fact, there was absolutely no discussion of the comments. I’m very tired of the city selectively advising the public of information that supports the Mayor and Council’s decisions which don’t reflect a large majority of the opinions submitted to the city by the public. It is a misrepresentation of the facts.
Supported a comment by Gary Zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 6 months ago
Gary Zimmerman
Thank you. I am also very tired of the city's intentionally misleading comments that do not typically address the posted concern, and add only positives to the city's position. I feel steamrolled by those City responses.
Thank you. I am also very tired of the city's intentionally misleading comments that do not typically address the posted concern, and add only positives to the city's position. I feel steamrolled by those City responses.
Supported a comment by ROBERTA CROCKETT on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
ROBERTA CROCKETT
It's a big modern building, so why not make it a little taller and incorporate some floors of parking? Please do whatever redesign is necessary to preserve The Cabin is its current/historic location.
It's a big modern building, so why not make it a little taller and incorporate some floors of parking? Please do whatever redesign is necessary to preserve The Cabin is its current/historic location.
Supported a comment by Sarah Michalec on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Sarah Michalec
It is a shame that the leadership of Boise felt that no talent existed west of the Mississippi to design a new library that would reflect the values of the local community. We do not need to compete with larger metropolitan areas such as Salt Lake City nor can we afford to. The Log Cabin, already well established as a cultural icon, needs to be incorporated into the plan. Housing the Department of Arts and History in the new library seems redundant since the State History and Art Museums are across the street and JUMP isn't far away. How about some creative thinking? What about a BSU department? Are there ways to share expenses with another entity?
It is a shame that the leadership of Boise felt that no talent existed west of the Mississippi to design a new library that would reflect the values of the local community. We do not need to compete with larger metropolitan areas such as Salt Lake City nor can we afford to. The Log Cabin, already well established as a cultural icon, needs to be incorporated into the plan. Housing the Department of Arts and History in the new library seems redundant since the State History and Art Museums are across the street and JUMP isn't far away. How about some creative thinking? What about a BSU department? Are there ways to share expenses with another entity?
Supported a comment by Margaret Koger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Margaret Koger
Dear Friends deciding the fate of The Cabin, I am distressed that plans for keeping The Cabin in place were not seen to in the initial design. It seems an obvious step and I suspect an intentional oversight. If the city can buy nearby land for a parking lot, the city can extend a beautiful library around The Cabin. I believe the enthusiasm of a few people often directs projects without any initial input. I would love a new library building that welcomes nearby residents with the same convenience we have now. This includes having The Cabin stay where it is. Thank you for tallying my position and I hope to hear an improvement in the revised design will keep our proud city heritage of encouraging writers and readers alive.
Dear Friends deciding the fate of The Cabin, I am distressed that plans for keeping The Cabin in place were not seen to in the initial design. It seems an obvious step and I suspect an intentional oversight. If the city can buy nearby land for a parking lot, the city can extend a beautiful library around The Cabin. I believe the enthusiasm of a few people often directs projects without any initial input. I would love a new library building that welcomes nearby residents with the same convenience we have now. This includes having The Cabin stay where it is. Thank you for tallying my position and I hope to hear an improvement in the revised design will keep our proud city heritage of encouraging writers and readers alive.
Supported a comment by MJ Surges-Prokop on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
MJ Surges-Prokop
Is our moniker "The City of Trees"? If so, consider designs that have more trees and less cement! Also, it seems like The Cabin could stay in it's current location by eliminating the grand cement entrance that is featured in the renderings. Please save the Cabin for history's sake. It is situated so nicely on the banks of the Boise River. Cabins belong on the river! It seems silly to feature The Cabin in the History and Arts "section" of the library! Just keep it! That's the best way to preserve history. Last, this proposed building seems much too large. I like to notice the capitol when I drive into Boise, not the library. Scale it back and find a happy medium for all.
Is our moniker "The City of Trees"? If so, consider designs that have more trees and less cement! Also, it seems like The Cabin could stay in it's current location by eliminating the grand cement entrance that is featured in the renderings. Please save the Cabin for history's sake. It is situated so nicely on the banks of the Boise River. Cabins belong on the river! It seems silly to feature The Cabin in the History and Arts "section" of the library! Just keep it! That's the best way to preserve history. Last, this proposed building seems much too large. I like to notice the capitol when I drive into Boise, not the library. Scale it back and find a happy medium for all.
Supported a comment by Pamela Lowe on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Pamela Lowe
Do not move The Cabin. Reading and Conversations is my favorite program, however, The Cabin in general is one of the best things about Boise and its presence is integral to keeping Boise livable. Don't move it!
Do not move The Cabin. Reading and Conversations is my favorite program, however, The Cabin in general is one of the best things about Boise and its presence is integral to keeping Boise livable. Don't move it!
Supported a comment by Eric Oliver on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Eric Oliver
Please don't move the cabin! A new library and maintaining the history of the cabin are not mutually exclusive. Also, please consider choosing glass that has runners or other details to prevent bird deaths. Thank you!
Please don't move the cabin! A new library and maintaining the history of the cabin are not mutually exclusive. Also, please consider choosing glass that has runners or other details to prevent bird deaths. Thank you!
Supported a comment by Rae Redmon Schroder on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Rae Redmon Schroder
Please consider incorporating The Cabin into the main library design. It is an integral part of our community and the like-mindedness between the two make this an obvious decision.
Please consider incorporating The Cabin into the main library design. It is an integral part of our community and the like-mindedness between the two make this an obvious decision.
Supported a comment by Deborah Eisinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Deborah Eisinger
The Log Cabin has been part of my life for many years. I’ve attended many classes and gatherings there. It’s a wonderful old building and I’d hate to see it torn down. I’m also a long time member, appreciative of the programs the Cabin provides: Readings and Conversations, writers in the schools and the annual writing contest.
The Log Cabin has been part of my life for many years. I’ve attended many classes and gatherings there. It’s a wonderful old building and I’d hate to see it torn down. I’m also a long time member, appreciative of the programs the Cabin provides: Readings and Conversations, writers in the schools and the annual writing contest.
Supported a comment by Nancy werdel on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Nancy werdel
Please make sure the Cabin is able to continue its good work! It is such a critical component of Boise’s culture and identity.
Please make sure the Cabin is able to continue its good work! It is such a critical component of Boise’s culture and identity.
Supported a comment by Ellen Albus on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Ellen Albus
Love the beautiful design - we do not need another brown box! BUT, please have the architect find a way to incorporate the cabin, in it's present location, into the design. It is part of our rich heritage, and part of what makes Boise a great place to live. Also, I will not use the library if there is not adequate parking. There must be MORE parking than what is currently available, not less.
Love the beautiful design - we do not need another brown box! BUT, please have the architect find a way to incorporate the cabin, in it's present location, into the design. It is part of our rich heritage, and part of what makes Boise a great place to live. Also, I will not use the library if there is not adequate parking. There must be MORE parking than what is currently available, not less.
Supported a comment by Bob Marsh on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Bob Marsh
The new library design should incorporate the cabin into the design. The Cabin should not be moved. The programs are much too important for it to be shoved aside. The architect should have begun the process with the preservation of the building (Cabin) into it.
The new library design should incorporate the cabin into the design. The Cabin should not be moved. The programs are much too important for it to be shoved aside. The architect should have begun the process with the preservation of the building (Cabin) into it.
Supported a comment by Jessica Vuolo on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jessica Vuolo
I attended the cabin as a young writer!! I have so many memories there and a published poem I love the atmosphere of the cabin and the natural history should not be diminished:(
I attended the cabin as a young writer!! I have so many memories there and a published poem I love the atmosphere of the cabin and the natural history should not be diminished:(
Supported a comment by Kati Durkin on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Kati Durkin
We should not go forward on any library plans without including The Cabin. It provides such a valuable service to our community- not just with camps and R&C, but by bringing authors to schools and giving students opportunities that no one else is. The building also has so much historic value that it shouldn’t be compromised for something that can be accomplished without removing the building.
We should not go forward on any library plans without including The Cabin. It provides such a valuable service to our community- not just with camps and R&C, but by bringing authors to schools and giving students opportunities that no one else is. The building also has so much historic value that it shouldn’t be compromised for something that can be accomplished without removing the building.
Supported a comment by Anna Lindquist on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Anna Lindquist
It would be nice to break up the concrete with more landscaping--preferably native, drought tolerant plantings--to avoid creating more of a heat island. The architecture is modern and stylish, but could be anywhere; let's tie it into the landscape by adding regionally appropriate plants to create a greater sense of place!
It would be nice to break up the concrete with more landscaping--preferably native, drought tolerant plantings--to avoid creating more of a heat island. The architecture is modern and stylish, but could be anywhere; let's tie it into the landscape by adding regionally appropriate plants to create a greater sense of place!
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Good idea
Supported a comment by Sheila Robertson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Sheila Robertson
You should move the library to the old K-Mart location. More parking and less impact on the Cabin as well as the riparian area along the river.
You should move the library to the old K-Mart location. More parking and less impact on the Cabin as well as the riparian area along the river.
Supported a comment by Mark LaSalle on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Mark LaSalle
Please incorporate The Cabin into the final Library! design. It would be a catastrophic loss to Boise for The Cabin to go away.
Please incorporate The Cabin into the final Library! design. It would be a catastrophic loss to Boise for The Cabin to go away.
Supported a comment by Michael M. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Michael M.
Where are the proposed 300 parking spaces going to be located. From the documentation, I do not see where any of these spaces can be located. A private development cannot be started downtown without incorporating parking. Why should the library be any different. Do we actually have a need for an auditorium of this size or another plaza. The library is for books, leave the meeting and entertainment venus to the grove plaza and the many auditoriums between BSU and downtown.
Where are the proposed 300 parking spaces going to be located. From the documentation, I do not see where any of these spaces can be located. A private development cannot be started downtown without incorporating parking. Why should the library be any different. Do we actually have a need for an auditorium of this size or another plaza. The library is for books, leave the meeting and entertainment venus to the grove plaza and the many auditoriums between BSU and downtown.
Supported a comment by Matthew Shapiro on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Matthew Shapiro
I believe that in order to magnify the value of the proposed facility, and to help justify its cost, the City and Library planners should strongly consider incorporating an innovative function. We need a permanent public space that is designed for the public to learn about issues, really get their minds around trends and possibilities, and weigh in on those. This is advanced public participation. Many years ago, such a space was proposed and called the "social planetarium". But no city has thus far created such a space, in spite of the fact that both the need and the science of interactive spaces and exhibits has advanced greatly. The Boise Commons, a local nonprofit (http://boisecommons.org) believes that Boise should take the initiative, setting an example for cities across America, and incorporate such a functionality and use of space into the new facility. This includes both dedicated space and programming, which we are happy to help create. Imagine a mini science museum focused not on physics but on social science, our public needs; imagine a mini historical museum focused not on the past, but on the present and the future. A new library space with built-in "social planetarium" (for lack of a better phrase yet) would be incredibly valuable to the community. Contact us for more information, because we have put a great deal of research and thought into it. Looking forward to working together. mshapiro@boisecommons.org
I believe that in order to magnify the value of the proposed facility, and to help justify its cost, the City and Library planners should strongly consider incorporating an innovative function. We need a permanent public space that is designed for the public to learn about issues, really get their minds around trends and possibilities, and weigh in on those. This is advanced public participation. Many years ago, such a space was proposed and called the "social planetarium". But no city has thus far created such a space, in spite of the fact that both the need and the science of interactive spaces and exhibits has advanced greatly. The Boise Commons, a local nonprofit (http://boisecommons.org) believes that Boise should take the initiative, setting an example for cities across America, and incorporate such a functionality and use of space into the new facility. This includes both dedicated space and programming, which we are happy to help create. Imagine a mini science museum focused not on physics but on social science, our public needs; imagine a mini historical museum focused not on the past, but on the present and the future. A new library space with built-in "social planetarium" (for lack of a better phrase yet) would be incredibly valuable to the community. Contact us for more information, because we have put a great deal of research and thought into it. Looking forward to working together. mshapiro@boisecommons.org
Supported a comment by Ann Carlson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Ann Carlson
I strongly believe that The Cabin should be incorporated into the project. Free and adequate parking must be part of the project. Any offsite parking must be directly across the street. When these aspects are satisfactorily addressed, I wholeheartedly support expansion and enhancement of the downtown library. I a physical library has a viable future in our community.
I strongly believe that The Cabin should be incorporated into the project. Free and adequate parking must be part of the project. Any offsite parking must be directly across the street. When these aspects are satisfactorily addressed, I wholeheartedly support expansion and enhancement of the downtown library. I a physical library has a viable future in our community.
Supported a comment by Diann Stone on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Diann Stone
The huge set of steps is too foreboding and not welcoming! There needs to be ground level entry near any parking options. That's a lot of steps to walk up with children, and the ramp looks too long and tiring for anyone with ambulatory issues. If parking is off-site, there needs to be a public entrance at every side of the building. You cannot expect people to walk long distances in inclement weather to enter their public library. Any steps need to be clear of ice and snow Will geothermal heat or recirculated warm air be used to melt snow on stairs and walkways? Has underground parking been considered? Proximity to the river may make that impractical because of the water table. A public library us for the people to use and needs to be welcoming and easily accessible.
The huge set of steps is too foreboding and not welcoming! There needs to be ground level entry near any parking options. That's a lot of steps to walk up with children, and the ramp looks too long and tiring for anyone with ambulatory issues. If parking is off-site, there needs to be a public entrance at every side of the building. You cannot expect people to walk long distances in inclement weather to enter their public library. Any steps need to be clear of ice and snow Will geothermal heat or recirculated warm air be used to melt snow on stairs and walkways? Has underground parking been considered? Proximity to the river may make that impractical because of the water table. A public library us for the people to use and needs to be welcoming and easily accessible.
Supported a comment by Pamela B. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Pamela B.
My husband who uses a wheelchair doesn't feel comfortable going to City Hall with that new design. I don't want him to feel unwelcomed into a space that we currently use often.
My husband who uses a wheelchair doesn't feel comfortable going to City Hall with that new design. I don't want him to feel unwelcomed into a space that we currently use often.
Supported a comment by Pamela B. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Pamela B.
Accessibility. All abilities should feel welcomed into a public space. Would also want to make sure bird safety is ensured. I like the river but do not depend on it to live like a bird does.
Accessibility. All abilities should feel welcomed into a public space. Would also want to make sure bird safety is ensured. I like the river but do not depend on it to live like a bird does.
Supported a comment by Rhonda Rice on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Rhonda Rice
Incorporate a version 2 with the Cabin
Incorporate a version 2 with the Cabin
Supported a comment by S Evans on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
S Evans
Not sure what I think of the ultra modern design. Not really what I think when I think of Boise. I'd rather see cozy small town charm, rather than the cold impersonal city we are starting to become. Wood and stone tends to convey that, especially next to the river. Maybe reduce the size of the plaza and incorporate the Cabin. Parking is also an issue. Maybe reduce the building/plaza footprint, make the building a little taller, and have decent on-site parking, as well as additional off-site. Could leave the cabin alone that way too. But, what really concerns me is the future on-going maintenance. Odd roof lines usually lend themselves to ongoing leaks from day one. Large vaulted prices and southern windows often lead to high electricity costs. What I would really like to see is an energy efficient space that takes advantage of our cool nights to cool down the building and maintain that coolness for as long as possible during the day. If you do not have experience maintenance personnel on your board, please do. I'm involved with a building that if we had done that 15 years ago, we would be spending a lot less money now in both electric costs and in repairs. I'd rather more of the library donations and tax monies going towards programming and books, not building maintenance.
Not sure what I think of the ultra modern design. Not really what I think when I think of Boise. I'd rather see cozy small town charm, rather than the cold impersonal city we are starting to become. Wood and stone tends to convey that, especially next to the river. Maybe reduce the size of the plaza and incorporate the Cabin. Parking is also an issue. Maybe reduce the building/plaza footprint, make the building a little taller, and have decent on-site parking, as well as additional off-site. Could leave the cabin alone that way too. But, what really concerns me is the future on-going maintenance. Odd roof lines usually lend themselves to ongoing leaks from day one. Large vaulted prices and southern windows often lead to high electricity costs. What I would really like to see is an energy efficient space that takes advantage of our cool nights to cool down the building and maintain that coolness for as long as possible during the day. If you do not have experience maintenance personnel on your board, please do. I'm involved with a building that if we had done that 15 years ago, we would be spending a lot less money now in both electric costs and in repairs. I'd rather more of the library donations and tax monies going towards programming and books, not building maintenance.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Lynette Daudt
Green outside spaces, not concrete and glass!
Green outside spaces, not concrete and glass!
Supported a comment by Nichole Di Dio on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Nichole Di Dio
Professional development events, rooms for writers and researchers in the community to use. Community gardens maybe so our community can have a place to learn how to garden? I'm also curious how the homeless population that regularly visits the current Main library on HOT and COLD days can be better served... could there be a social worker on site? I'd also like to see collections that honestly reflect our past in Idaho and encourages us to learn from those mistakes and heartbreaks. I'd like there to be a continuous effort to introduce the community to new and modern technology and learning tools.
Professional development events, rooms for writers and researchers in the community to use. Community gardens maybe so our community can have a place to learn how to garden? I'm also curious how the homeless population that regularly visits the current Main library on HOT and COLD days can be better served... could there be a social worker on site? I'd also like to see collections that honestly reflect our past in Idaho and encourages us to learn from those mistakes and heartbreaks. I'd like there to be a continuous effort to introduce the community to new and modern technology and learning tools.
Supported a comment by Anne Olden on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Anne Olden
Less open space in front of the building, moving the building north and giving room for the Cabin. This large open area will attract loiterers. Remove the cafe' and give that space to library functions. There are plenty of places to buy coffee and food downtown. Design building structurally so that additional floors can be added. Parking garage needed close by, preferably to the west. Provide for future added floors. Operate as other garages, with one free hour.
Less open space in front of the building, moving the building north and giving room for the Cabin. This large open area will attract loiterers. Remove the cafe' and give that space to library functions. There are plenty of places to buy coffee and food downtown. Design building structurally so that additional floors can be added. Parking garage needed close by, preferably to the west. Provide for future added floors. Operate as other garages, with one free hour.
Supported a comment by Neil Luther on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Neil Luther
Images for the design are not completely clear but I have concerns over green belt access for cyclists vs pedestrians. So long as there is clear and safe access to the river and greenbelt I don't see an issue.
Images for the design are not completely clear but I have concerns over green belt access for cyclists vs pedestrians. So long as there is clear and safe access to the river and greenbelt I don't see an issue.
Supported a comment by Gary Zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Gary Zimmerman
I think it is a bit overwhelming for the river and greenbelt. Also there needs to be a bit more separation and coordination with the Anne Frank monument. It is strange that Anne Frank was just redesigned to include event space and teaching areas, and then we build a new library right next to it with additional event and program space. Seems to have a lack of coordination.
I think it is a bit overwhelming for the river and greenbelt. Also there needs to be a bit more separation and coordination with the Anne Frank monument. It is strange that Anne Frank was just redesigned to include event space and teaching areas, and then we build a new library right next to it with additional event and program space. Seems to have a lack of coordination.
Supported a comment by Kay Hummel on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Kay Hummel
Please redesign the site plan with more simplicity to meet customers’ true needs. Substantially downsize the northern entrance plaza along River Street and move the building north. A smaller plaza would allow retention of The Cabin, which plays a vital role in the cultural district. The proposed 20,000 sq.ft. outdoor plaza is not useable at least 7 months of the year, whereas other Library functions are needed year-round. There is adequate green space with the 2 rooftop outdoor gardens and other open space indicated on the west side. While the design is initially exciting, I urge reconsideration of truly necessary library functions vs. some community “priorities” listed. For example, a “connection with the River” does not merit top priority when there is abundant access to the Boise River at many nearby locations. Our Library’s two highest functions are library services and space for the Arts and History Dept. Focus on these functions, and proper design will follow. Likewise, I am unclear on the necessity for ‘maker spaces.’ Given the under utilization of Jump’s maker spaces, this is a head scratcher. Adequate parking and auditorium space are the next highest functions that must be designed for, again more vital year-round than a cement-clad plaza (which also will be too hot in two summer months, essentially a baking, reflecting desert). Citizens are not excited about paying for more outdoor gathering spaces when the Downtown core provides ample outdoor sites nearby – Julia Davis, Ann Morrison, the Grove Plaza, and Jump.
Please redesign the site plan with more simplicity to meet customers’ true needs. Substantially downsize the northern entrance plaza along River Street and move the building north. A smaller plaza would allow retention of The Cabin, which plays a vital role in the cultural district. The proposed 20,000 sq.ft. outdoor plaza is not useable at least 7 months of the year, whereas other Library functions are needed year-round. There is adequate green space with the 2 rooftop outdoor gardens and other open space indicated on the west side. While the design is initially exciting, I urge reconsideration of truly necessary library functions vs. some community “priorities” listed. For example, a “connection with the River” does not merit top priority when there is abundant access to the Boise River at many nearby locations. Our Library’s two highest functions are library services and space for the Arts and History Dept. Focus on these functions, and proper design will follow. Likewise, I am unclear on the necessity for ‘maker spaces.’ Given the under utilization of Jump’s maker spaces, this is a head scratcher. Adequate parking and auditorium space are the next highest functions that must be designed for, again more vital year-round than a cement-clad plaza (which also will be too hot in two summer months, essentially a baking, reflecting desert). Citizens are not excited about paying for more outdoor gathering spaces when the Downtown core provides ample outdoor sites nearby – Julia Davis, Ann Morrison, the Grove Plaza, and Jump.
Supported a comment by Dave T. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Dave T.
Same aspects that I use now - books, dvds, cds, and library programs.
Same aspects that I use now - books, dvds, cds, and library programs.
Supported a comment by Dave T. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Dave T.
No more than the current library already does. The current main library already has access to the Greenbelt and the Boise River is just beyond that. I don’t see how this new design incorporates either of those any differently than they are now. I do not see a large patio or outdoor space going all the way up to the river in this design.
No more than the current library already does. The current main library already has access to the Greenbelt and the Boise River is just beyond that. I don’t see how this new design incorporates either of those any differently than they are now. I do not see a large patio or outdoor space going all the way up to the river in this design.
Supported a comment by L Pennisi on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
L Pennisi
Leave the main Library branch as it is. We went down this path a few years ago and the voters rejected changing the main library. Stop spending our money on frivolous projects that will raise our taxes and keep us in debt for 20+ years.
Leave the main Library branch as it is. We went down this path a few years ago and the voters rejected changing the main library. Stop spending our money on frivolous projects that will raise our taxes and keep us in debt for 20+ years.
Supported a comment by James Maguire on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
James Maguire
No. It should respect and incorporate the Cabin. The current south elevation looks like any other high tech 'corporate' office park. Does not suit Boise and is basically a smaller version of what the architect did in SLC.
No. It should respect and incorporate the Cabin. The current south elevation looks like any other high tech 'corporate' office park. Does not suit Boise and is basically a smaller version of what the architect did in SLC.
Supported a comment by L Pennisi on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
L Pennisi
No, especially if a parking garage is part of the plan. Can this City Council leave something as it is? Really, they are remaking this city into an urban renewal utopia and not considering the way people WHO LIVE IN BOISE want to live and what they are willing to pay for. Seems like the City Council is more interested in appealing to outsiders instead of the people who have lived here all their lives or almost.
No, especially if a parking garage is part of the plan. Can this City Council leave something as it is? Really, they are remaking this city into an urban renewal utopia and not considering the way people WHO LIVE IN BOISE want to live and what they are willing to pay for. Seems like the City Council is more interested in appealing to outsiders instead of the people who have lived here all their lives or almost.
Supported a comment by L Pennisi on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
L Pennisi
This building is completely unnecessary and will create another bigger city bureaucracy. Access will be limited to citizens who will have to pay for this behemoth and there will be all sorts of hoops that a user will have to jump through to reserve a room or use any services. This city has enough existing venues for events, programs, and services. Let's see how those venues are used before spending more money. Let's see if they are used, how? by whom? What traffic situations are the result, etc. The city just spent money to redo the history museum. There isn't a room or two that can be used for programs, services, events, and collections? This city is ridiculous and has no boundaries when it comes to spending money. Stop spending our money so frivolously! Just look at the Grove fountain. $750,000 for a fountain. Not good stewards with taxpayer dollars.
This building is completely unnecessary and will create another bigger city bureaucracy. Access will be limited to citizens who will have to pay for this behemoth and there will be all sorts of hoops that a user will have to jump through to reserve a room or use any services. This city has enough existing venues for events, programs, and services. Let's see how those venues are used before spending more money. Let's see if they are used, how? by whom? What traffic situations are the result, etc. The city just spent money to redo the history museum. There isn't a room or two that can be used for programs, services, events, and collections? This city is ridiculous and has no boundaries when it comes to spending money. Stop spending our money so frivolously! Just look at the Grove fountain. $750,000 for a fountain. Not good stewards with taxpayer dollars.
Supported a comment by Jake Anderson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jake Anderson
Why no solar panels on the roof? Boise has abundant sunshine, and believe it or not we still have coal plants providing a significant chunk of our power!
Why no solar panels on the roof? Boise has abundant sunshine, and believe it or not we still have coal plants providing a significant chunk of our power!
Supported a comment by James Maguire on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
James Maguire
The design is idiosyncratic and trendy. An Iconic, welcoming, durable and 'timeless' structure would not needlessly call as much attention to itself and would utilize those strategies successfully deployed on past 'timeless' buildings. The current design will be dated in a matter of a few years and due to its unconventional geometry will be expensive to construct and maintain. Boise can do better.
The design is idiosyncratic and trendy. An Iconic, welcoming, durable and 'timeless' structure would not needlessly call as much attention to itself and would utilize those strategies successfully deployed on past 'timeless' buildings. The current design will be dated in a matter of a few years and due to its unconventional geometry will be expensive to construct and maintain. Boise can do better.
Supported a comment by Jake Anderson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jake Anderson
The side near the river should have plenty of native trees, and at least some of it should have a "woods" character instead of a "lawn" character. We're ripping natural riparian woodlands and putting in unnatural lawns at a horrifying rate in this town, and in doing so we're destroying habitat for native wildlife like kingfishers and ospreys and replacing it with habitat for starlings and geese. The sides away from the river should feature sagebrush and other plants native to this area. People forget that Idaho's sagebrush steppe has a unique beauty of its own, and a city landmark like the library should celebrate that beauty, rather than replacing it with landscapes more typical of the east.
The side near the river should have plenty of native trees, and at least some of it should have a "woods" character instead of a "lawn" character. We're ripping natural riparian woodlands and putting in unnatural lawns at a horrifying rate in this town, and in doing so we're destroying habitat for native wildlife like kingfishers and ospreys and replacing it with habitat for starlings and geese. The sides away from the river should feature sagebrush and other plants native to this area. People forget that Idaho's sagebrush steppe has a unique beauty of its own, and a city landmark like the library should celebrate that beauty, rather than replacing it with landscapes more typical of the east.
Supported a comment by Barbara Michele Winston on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Barbara Michele Winston
I would like to see the present downtown library building renovated. The design idea is too large and modernistic for this location. It would cost far less money and spare The Cabin. I think additional branches would be a welcome asset to many of the neighborhoods. That would help ease the parking dilemma and crowding concerns at the main library.
I would like to see the present downtown library building renovated. The design idea is too large and modernistic for this location. It would cost far less money and spare The Cabin. I think additional branches would be a welcome asset to many of the neighborhoods. That would help ease the parking dilemma and crowding concerns at the main library.
Supported a comment by Barbara Michele Winston on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Barbara Michele Winston
If parking is an issue I would visit one of the branches.
If parking is an issue I would visit one of the branches.
Supported a comment by Kara Packer on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Kara Packer
I don't like all the windows. I think the money set aside for redesigning the library could be better used elsewhere in Boise to improve parks and trails. In general, continue to make the city more pedestrian, family and biker friendly.
I don't like all the windows. I think the money set aside for redesigning the library could be better used elsewhere in Boise to improve parks and trails. In general, continue to make the city more pedestrian, family and biker friendly.
Supported a comment by Lori Dingel on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Lori Dingel
I don't like it. It looks more like a modern art museum than the Boise main library. Our library should honor Boise's past and have the technology of today. The structure should reflect old Boise architecture with red brick and detailing such as the Jefferson Building and Old Boise buildings downtown.
I don't like it. It looks more like a modern art museum than the Boise main library. Our library should honor Boise's past and have the technology of today. The structure should reflect old Boise architecture with red brick and detailing such as the Jefferson Building and Old Boise buildings downtown.
Supported a comment by Frances Capell on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Frances Capell
Not impressed with it. Too large. Too many redundancies. Too much glass. Too expensive. Not enough parking. Do not want Log Cabin moved. Consider putting part of it underground to save on utility costs. Let the public in on the plans for public buildings before they reach this stage. Frances Capell
Not impressed with it. Too large. Too many redundancies. Too much glass. Too expensive. Not enough parking. Do not want Log Cabin moved. Consider putting part of it underground to save on utility costs. Let the public in on the plans for public buildings before they reach this stage. Frances Capell
Supported a comment by Frances Capell on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Frances Capell
Author events, writing classes, English as second language
Author events, writing classes, English as second language
Supported a comment by Jessica Howell on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jessica Howell
This is Boise, not Los Angeles. The proposed development is an eye sore and discounts the historical and cultural significance of The Cabin. This is so disappointing.
This is Boise, not Los Angeles. The proposed development is an eye sore and discounts the historical and cultural significance of The Cabin. This is so disappointing.
Supported a comment by Connie Bollinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Connie Bollinger
I think the project is too fancy and too expensive. The one thing that keeps me from coming to the main library is the terrible access, limited parking, and getting into and out of the parking lot. I have not seen these addressed in the plan. And, the Cabin belongs where it is! The headlong rush to change Boise from what it has been to something else will be regretted.
I think the project is too fancy and too expensive. The one thing that keeps me from coming to the main library is the terrible access, limited parking, and getting into and out of the parking lot. I have not seen these addressed in the plan. And, the Cabin belongs where it is! The headlong rush to change Boise from what it has been to something else will be regretted.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Here's another fun fact about the cabin, a great friend of mine whose father began his career in the Forestry Department actually was trained at the cabin. So this is not just a local historic place it is also a State Historical place
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
David Klinger
The other compelling case against moving “The Cabin,” Jared O. and others, is one that isn’t immediately apparent to many newcomers to Boise, of which we have a rapidly increasing amount. There has been a terrific cumulative loss of historic structures in Boise, stretching back decades or longer. We’d be happy to share with you the lengthy, lengthy list of historic buildings that have either been demolished or moved in this city, under a policy that basically says, “Move it ... or lose it!” That’s not an enlightened policy ... certainly not one that a city that claims the mantle of “America’s Most Livable City” can continue to perpetuate. We think it’s time for new thinking and a new approach ... one that respects history and that declines to regard structures of significance to this city’s heritage as merely “inconveniences” to be pushed aside with little regard for impact on Boise’s history. History belongs where it happened. And a city like Boise, that has much less accumulated history than, say, a Boston or a Philadelphia, needs to conserve what it does possess with even greater tenacity than cities blessed with a longer municipal life. Boise can no longer regard its history as an annoyance; it ought to be capitalizing on it as an economic driver. And that starts with “The Cabin” being the “line in the sand.”
The other compelling case against moving “The Cabin,” Jared O. and others, is one that isn’t immediately apparent to many newcomers to Boise, of which we have a rapidly increasing amount. There has been a terrific cumulative loss of historic structures in Boise, stretching back decades or longer. We’d be happy to share with you the lengthy, lengthy list of historic buildings that have either been demolished or moved in this city, under a policy that basically says, “Move it ... or lose it!” That’s not an enlightened policy ... certainly not one that a city that claims the mantle of “America’s Most Livable City” can continue to perpetuate. We think it’s time for new thinking and a new approach ... one that respects history and that declines to regard structures of significance to this city’s heritage as merely “inconveniences” to be pushed aside with little regard for impact on Boise’s history. History belongs where it happened. And a city like Boise, that has much less accumulated history than, say, a Boston or a Philadelphia, needs to conserve what it does possess with even greater tenacity than cities blessed with a longer municipal life. Boise can no longer regard its history as an annoyance; it ought to be capitalizing on it as an economic driver. And that starts with “The Cabin” being the “line in the sand.”
Supported a comment by Johnie Thompson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Johnie Thompson
How about the city that had the wisdom to let a long-term lease to Biomat for the adjacent building when the library expansion was in future plans (something amells of fish here) admit their error, set down and talk to their tenant about providing them with another location and expand the existing LIBARY! building to the west? I'm expecting one of your glib, weak "PR" excuses to this; please include credible costs estimates for this as opposed to the current "plan". I am sure Mr. Bertram would be much interested in this also. Thank you for your prompt reply.
How about the city that had the wisdom to let a long-term lease to Biomat for the adjacent building when the library expansion was in future plans (something amells of fish here) admit their error, set down and talk to their tenant about providing them with another location and expand the existing LIBARY! building to the west? I'm expecting one of your glib, weak "PR" excuses to this; please include credible costs estimates for this as opposed to the current "plan". I am sure Mr. Bertram would be much interested in this also. Thank you for your prompt reply.
Supported a comment by John Bertram on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
John Bertram
The CABIN is an important historic component of Capitol Boulevard and must remain at its original 1940 location. Very unfortunate that Mayor and Council recently approved a long term lease for the adjacent city owned property that should be part of the new library's parking solution. Face the foolish lease and buy it out. Don't cut down Greenbelt trees-they are part of the Boise River habitat.
The CABIN is an important historic component of Capitol Boulevard and must remain at its original 1940 location. Very unfortunate that Mayor and Council recently approved a long term lease for the adjacent city owned property that should be part of the new library's parking solution. Face the foolish lease and buy it out. Don't cut down Greenbelt trees-they are part of the Boise River habitat.
Supported a comment by John Magnan on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
John Magnan
Coming from a larger city, the best libraries were the small local ones. Easy parking, people walked to them, cozy scale for families and small community gatherings. This project is a boondoggle calling itself a library. I promise it will have a plaque with the mayors name on it if it is completed, and our taxes will go up bit by bit. I am not anti-taxes but what if we put those funds towards creating the countries most bike-able and walk-able city? Those are the trade-offs. Also, lets think about changing our library structure to fit today's lifestyle. Honestly, the worst part of getting a book from the library is going to the library- driving, parking, searching for your book, and the downtown location is the worst to get to with traffic. If you want to run a great service, let me order a book online I will pay for delivery and return, use shipping boxes that we can reuse over and over. Community center? JUMP is a couple blocks away. More books? How about sharing resources with BSU's library? Let's look forward and build this city different from others rather than copying them.
Coming from a larger city, the best libraries were the small local ones. Easy parking, people walked to them, cozy scale for families and small community gatherings. This project is a boondoggle calling itself a library. I promise it will have a plaque with the mayors name on it if it is completed, and our taxes will go up bit by bit. I am not anti-taxes but what if we put those funds towards creating the countries most bike-able and walk-able city? Those are the trade-offs. Also, lets think about changing our library structure to fit today's lifestyle. Honestly, the worst part of getting a book from the library is going to the library- driving, parking, searching for your book, and the downtown location is the worst to get to with traffic. If you want to run a great service, let me order a book online I will pay for delivery and return, use shipping boxes that we can reuse over and over. Community center? JUMP is a couple blocks away. More books? How about sharing resources with BSU's library? Let's look forward and build this city different from others rather than copying them.
Supported a comment by Johnie Thompson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Johnie Thompson
Great "concept", maybe -- WRONG! place for all the parking issues, traffic congestion it will bring, the glass bringing bird strike problems, and, again, glass bringing temperature management costs ($$$) with it in our extreme 4 season climate. Sure you have glib answers for no or low initial costs to us poor fixed income citizens; what about ongoing maintenance we'll be stuck with??
Great "concept", maybe -- WRONG! place for all the parking issues, traffic congestion it will bring, the glass bringing bird strike problems, and, again, glass bringing temperature management costs ($$$) with it in our extreme 4 season climate. Sure you have glib answers for no or low initial costs to us poor fixed income citizens; what about ongoing maintenance we'll be stuck with??
Supported a comment by Audrey Mavra McCormick on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Audrey Mavra McCormick
It's great. But it appears to be missing the "Library!"
It's great. But it appears to be missing the "Library!"
Supported a comment by Helen Dean on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Helen Dean
Too many reflective windows. Need bird proofing. City of Trees is home to incredible birds and we need ti protect them while providing books! please
Too many reflective windows. Need bird proofing. City of Trees is home to incredible birds and we need ti protect them while providing books! please
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
David Klinger
I believe that “storytelling” starts with the history that’s currently on the property, and which is now proposed for eviction. I’d tell the story of how this site — the two Civilian Conservation Corps structures that “bookend” the 1931 Capitol Boulevard Bridge were where modern forestry in Idaho really began in the New Deal. More thn 28,000 young men came to Idaho in the Depression (more than any other state but California) to enlist in Franklin Roosevelt’s “tree army”. Many of them stayed, and their descendants are still here in Idaho. Many of them toured “The Cabin” in their elementary school days, when it was the home of the Idaho State Forester, where they learned about trees and wood and fire and mountains for nearly 50 years when the state’s forest programs where centered here. I’d tell them that story was, essentially, lost when we wiped “The Cabin” off this place, to become an idle, museum-piece elsewhere that — like so many other Boise historic structures — was divorced from its birthplace. Yes, I would like to see much more storytelling in any new library. It will be the only way we can remember what Boise once possessed, but lacked the foresight to meaningfully preserve.
I believe that “storytelling” starts with the history that’s currently on the property, and which is now proposed for eviction. I’d tell the story of how this site — the two Civilian Conservation Corps structures that “bookend” the 1931 Capitol Boulevard Bridge were where modern forestry in Idaho really began in the New Deal. More thn 28,000 young men came to Idaho in the Depression (more than any other state but California) to enlist in Franklin Roosevelt’s “tree army”. Many of them stayed, and their descendants are still here in Idaho. Many of them toured “The Cabin” in their elementary school days, when it was the home of the Idaho State Forester, where they learned about trees and wood and fire and mountains for nearly 50 years when the state’s forest programs where centered here. I’d tell them that story was, essentially, lost when we wiped “The Cabin” off this place, to become an idle, museum-piece elsewhere that — like so many other Boise historic structures — was divorced from its birthplace. Yes, I would like to see much more storytelling in any new library. It will be the only way we can remember what Boise once possessed, but lacked the foresight to meaningfully preserve.
Supported a comment by bonnie zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
bonnie zimmerman
I think the design concept has been created to fit a grand library in the space they could take. Any concept to bring people together needs to think about parking. Including safe bicycle parking and lighted walkways. A library needs to be where the people are, or can easily reach. We don't need a grand library. We need multiple neighborhood libraries with updated books, references. Keep updated with technology in all libraries. City tax money needs to be used to the benefit of everyone.
I think the design concept has been created to fit a grand library in the space they could take. Any concept to bring people together needs to think about parking. Including safe bicycle parking and lighted walkways. A library needs to be where the people are, or can easily reach. We don't need a grand library. We need multiple neighborhood libraries with updated books, references. Keep updated with technology in all libraries. City tax money needs to be used to the benefit of everyone.
Supported a comment by Sonja Vogt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Sonja Vogt
There is no choice of designs. It appears to me that this is the only building concept being discussed. I would like to see other design concepts.
There is no choice of designs. It appears to me that this is the only building concept being discussed. I would like to see other design concepts.
Supported a comment by Heidi Ware Carlisle on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Heidi Ware Carlisle
I would like to see the city work with the Idaho Bird Conservation Partnership to create a bird safe design. Some kind of art feature or installation on windows that would create a bird-safe glass (mural, fritting, other texture added). I'd like designers to ensure there are no fruiting trees or shrubs (that will attract birds) located next to dangerous glass surfaces. Unless this building has bird-safe glass and other bird-safe designs incorporated, it will be a major danger to birds (as we have seen and documented with the University Plaza building--glass next to the river=hundreds of dead birds annually). Along with bird-safe glass (or other changes in design to eliminate glass risk), I'd like to see a design that reduces reflections of vegetation on windows (deadly to birds), and a design that eliminates "through way" views (areas where flying birds can see through one layer of glass into sky or open space on the other side). Also, birds will be attracted to any vegetation incorporated into the design. For any rooftop green spaces, I would want to make sure they were designed in a way that did not have dangerous glass elements, or overhangs or corners where birds could become trapped after being attracted to the trees and vegetation. The current library building with its relatively small windows already has a problem with birds hitting the glass. Adding more glass will only make this more dangerous for birds if plans are not put in place to stop it.
I would like to see the city work with the Idaho Bird Conservation Partnership to create a bird safe design. Some kind of art feature or installation on windows that would create a bird-safe glass (mural, fritting, other texture added). I'd like designers to ensure there are no fruiting trees or shrubs (that will attract birds) located next to dangerous glass surfaces. Unless this building has bird-safe glass and other bird-safe designs incorporated, it will be a major danger to birds (as we have seen and documented with the University Plaza building--glass next to the river=hundreds of dead birds annually). Along with bird-safe glass (or other changes in design to eliminate glass risk), I'd like to see a design that reduces reflections of vegetation on windows (deadly to birds), and a design that eliminates "through way" views (areas where flying birds can see through one layer of glass into sky or open space on the other side). Also, birds will be attracted to any vegetation incorporated into the design. For any rooftop green spaces, I would want to make sure they were designed in a way that did not have dangerous glass elements, or overhangs or corners where birds could become trapped after being attracted to the trees and vegetation. The current library building with its relatively small windows already has a problem with birds hitting the glass. Adding more glass will only make this more dangerous for birds if plans are not put in place to stop it.
Supported a comment by Joy Salas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Joy Salas
I would like to see us as a community help those less fortunate. Use the money being used for this library and build housing for the homeless. Put things in place to give them a hand up!!
I would like to see us as a community help those less fortunate. Use the money being used for this library and build housing for the homeless. Put things in place to give them a hand up!!
Supported a comment by Lindsay Mosqueda on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Lindsay Mosqueda
We need to leave the Boise Library alone and make updates as needed. This is what gives Boise its charm and stripping away the history surounding the building along with the building itself does not do this city any justice. I have grown up in that library and while it does need updated, tearing it down destroys what Boise is. The design is atrocious and does not fit into this community. That money could be used in so many different ways that would more benifical to the community than this eyesore. Stop demolishing what everyone loves about Boise. Traffic and parking are already a problem and now you want to create this. Truly sad and disappointing.
We need to leave the Boise Library alone and make updates as needed. This is what gives Boise its charm and stripping away the history surounding the building along with the building itself does not do this city any justice. I have grown up in that library and while it does need updated, tearing it down destroys what Boise is. The design is atrocious and does not fit into this community. That money could be used in so many different ways that would more benifical to the community than this eyesore. Stop demolishing what everyone loves about Boise. Traffic and parking are already a problem and now you want to create this. Truly sad and disappointing.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Not any more than it already is; the site is next to the River and easily accessed by the Greenbelt. This has nothing to do with a library. I go to the Library for books and programming, not to look at the River or Greenbelt.
Not any more than it already is; the site is next to the River and easily accessed by the Greenbelt. This has nothing to do with a library. I go to the Library for books and programming, not to look at the River or Greenbelt.
Supported a comment by Dave T. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Dave T.
Inclusion of the Arts and History department at the Main Library location. It just makes sense with the Cabin right there (not moved), then BAM and Idaho History across the street. This survey does not match what is on the Main Library. Why don’t you ask me what I don’t like about the proposed concept instead of making me cram it all in at the end under “other comments”. Oh wait, this survey does not have other comments at the end.
Inclusion of the Arts and History department at the Main Library location. It just makes sense with the Cabin right there (not moved), then BAM and Idaho History across the street. This survey does not match what is on the Main Library. Why don’t you ask me what I don’t like about the proposed concept instead of making me cram it all in at the end under “other comments”. Oh wait, this survey does not have other comments at the end.
Supported a comment by L Pennisi on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
L Pennisi
Never, especially if I have to pay to park, which is another part of the project. ANOTHER PARKING GARAGE!! Of course, the city will make patrons pay for the privilege to go to the library. Someone will have to pay for all this and it will the taxpayers. With Kindles and every other type of e-reader, do we really need a bigger library? What is the basis for this plan. Stop trying to change this city to impress who? Who is Bieter and the City Council trying to impress here? I didn't move to Boise to see it change into every other big city. What is the return on investment? So we can "feel" good? What need justifies this expense? What problem is the City Council and Bieter trying to solve? I don't think there is a problem; they just like to spend millions of dollars as often as possible and keep this city in a constant state of upheaval. How about we have a moratorium on building ANYTHING for one year? Let's see where the current building projects land. What unintended consequences are created? What new problems did the City Council create with their grandiose plans that the rest of us have to suffer through?
Never, especially if I have to pay to park, which is another part of the project. ANOTHER PARKING GARAGE!! Of course, the city will make patrons pay for the privilege to go to the library. Someone will have to pay for all this and it will the taxpayers. With Kindles and every other type of e-reader, do we really need a bigger library? What is the basis for this plan. Stop trying to change this city to impress who? Who is Bieter and the City Council trying to impress here? I didn't move to Boise to see it change into every other big city. What is the return on investment? So we can "feel" good? What need justifies this expense? What problem is the City Council and Bieter trying to solve? I don't think there is a problem; they just like to spend millions of dollars as often as possible and keep this city in a constant state of upheaval. How about we have a moratorium on building ANYTHING for one year? Let's see where the current building projects land. What unintended consequences are created? What new problems did the City Council create with their grandiose plans that the rest of us have to suffer through?
Supported a comment by Jake Anderson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jake Anderson
I want to see plenty of bike parking with good bike racks. Not awkward, stylized bike racks--ordinary, user-friendly bike racks that are easy to lock your bike to. Additionally, it would be nice to have a book drop that is convenient to cyclists. Besides that, less concrete, less asphalt, and plenty of native trees, please. The library is right next to the river; let's maintain some natural riparian habitat. I don't think a "modern, innovative gateway" is the right question to ask the public in order to assess whether we like your design, and the fact that it was question #2 makes me wonder about the design team's priorities. For example, I would be perfectly happy with a building stylized like a 19th century train station or Roman temple (or a 1940s warehouse adapted into an attractive, fully functional library) if it was generally attractive, practical, and cost-effective.
I want to see plenty of bike parking with good bike racks. Not awkward, stylized bike racks--ordinary, user-friendly bike racks that are easy to lock your bike to. Additionally, it would be nice to have a book drop that is convenient to cyclists. Besides that, less concrete, less asphalt, and plenty of native trees, please. The library is right next to the river; let's maintain some natural riparian habitat. I don't think a "modern, innovative gateway" is the right question to ask the public in order to assess whether we like your design, and the fact that it was question #2 makes me wonder about the design team's priorities. For example, I would be perfectly happy with a building stylized like a 19th century train station or Roman temple (or a 1940s warehouse adapted into an attractive, fully functional library) if it was generally attractive, practical, and cost-effective.
Supported a comment by Stan Cole on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Stan Cole
It is uninspired and looks like a large corporate office. For 85M this design should be unique to Boise and not pulled off the shelf by an "Iconic" architecture firms past designs. The large expanse of glass on the South portion of the building tells me the architect team has not visited Boise in July and August. What is the reason for building up the site in order to have a grand monumental stair on a relatively flat site?
It is uninspired and looks like a large corporate office. For 85M this design should be unique to Boise and not pulled off the shelf by an "Iconic" architecture firms past designs. The large expanse of glass on the South portion of the building tells me the architect team has not visited Boise in July and August. What is the reason for building up the site in order to have a grand monumental stair on a relatively flat site?
Supported a comment by Sue McMillan on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Sue McMillan
There seems to be a lot of form/design over substance in this project. The public spaces are duplicative of what is available elsewhere in the city and not a sensible use of tax payer funds. In addition, I'm surprised there was apparently no thought given to The Cabin -- whether in asking that it be incorporated in the plans or in effective messaging to the community as to why it wasn't incorporated in the plans.
There seems to be a lot of form/design over substance in this project. The public spaces are duplicative of what is available elsewhere in the city and not a sensible use of tax payer funds. In addition, I'm surprised there was apparently no thought given to The Cabin -- whether in asking that it be incorporated in the plans or in effective messaging to the community as to why it wasn't incorporated in the plans.
Supported a comment by Margie Baehr on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Margie Baehr
PLEASE don't have the Department of Arts & History duplicate services that are already provided in the community by BAM and others. Why do you feel a need to, as you state in your brochure, offer "professionally curated exhibitions" when we have a first-class art museum across the street? This is a waste of money and resources. BAM has been the center for visual arts for our city for over 80 years and deserves more support from Boise.
PLEASE don't have the Department of Arts & History duplicate services that are already provided in the community by BAM and others. Why do you feel a need to, as you state in your brochure, offer "professionally curated exhibitions" when we have a first-class art museum across the street? This is a waste of money and resources. BAM has been the center for visual arts for our city for over 80 years and deserves more support from Boise.
Supported a comment by Sharon Sproul on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Sharon Sproul
Nothing! We don't need it. Stop the spending Mayor Beiter. You are always raising our taxes for things we don't want or need. You are taxing us out of our homes.
Nothing! We don't need it. Stop the spending Mayor Beiter. You are always raising our taxes for things we don't want or need. You are taxing us out of our homes.
Supported a comment by Pamela B. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Pamela B.
There need to be housing options in this city. Where do we put the homeless if current renters who are looking are being asked to make 3 times the cost of rent?
There need to be housing options in this city. Where do we put the homeless if current renters who are looking are being asked to make 3 times the cost of rent?
Supported a comment by Joy Salas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Joy Salas
Programs to help the valley homeless find work, housing, and other needed resources to help get them off of the street !!
Programs to help the valley homeless find work, housing, and other needed resources to help get them off of the street !!
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Lynette Daudt
NO demolishing of any existing warehouse buildings in that neighborhood! Renovate and incorporate them.
NO demolishing of any existing warehouse buildings in that neighborhood! Renovate and incorporate them.
Supported a comment by Stan Cole on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Stan Cole
Materialism and design that relates specifically to Boise. The design is very void of anything unique or that would stand the test of time.
Materialism and design that relates specifically to Boise. The design is very void of anything unique or that would stand the test of time.
Supported a comment by Kristi Hansen on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Kristi Hansen
I would like to see a much more modest and less costly design, one that reflects and serves the majority of the population instead of being eye-candy for the top 5%. Building the Taj Mahal of libraries is a want. Doing something about Boise's lack of affordable housing that's driving the city's growing homeless population is a need, along with improved CITY-WIDE public transit.
I would like to see a much more modest and less costly design, one that reflects and serves the majority of the population instead of being eye-candy for the top 5%. Building the Taj Mahal of libraries is a want. Doing something about Boise's lack of affordable housing that's driving the city's growing homeless population is a need, along with improved CITY-WIDE public transit.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Lynette Daudt
Indeed, we DO NOT need this to also be an event center!!!
Indeed, we DO NOT need this to also be an event center!!!
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
This is really important feedback considering this design is from the same architect. I too love our traditional library that is not trying to be an events center, which we already have numerous of nearby - JUMP, the Grove, the Museums, BCT, not to mention outdoor spaces.
This is really important feedback considering this design is from the same architect. I too love our traditional library that is not trying to be an events center, which we already have numerous of nearby - JUMP, the Grove, the Museums, BCT, not to mention outdoor spaces.
Supported a comment by Jamie Kaiser on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jamie Kaiser
I am excited that this proposal would likely mean a more bulked up collection of books. That being said, I am a library super user and when I lived in Salt Lake City I rarely used the library because its design was inefficient. I fear this library suffers from the same flaws. I was so excited when I moved to Boise and was able to experience a traditional library that wasn’t masquerading as an events center.
I am excited that this proposal would likely mean a more bulked up collection of books. That being said, I am a library super user and when I lived in Salt Lake City I rarely used the library because its design was inefficient. I fear this library suffers from the same flaws. I was so excited when I moved to Boise and was able to experience a traditional library that wasn’t masquerading as an events center.
Supported a comment by Jamie Kaiser on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jamie Kaiser
I already visit weekly. Honestly this new building would cause me to cut down on visits.
I already visit weekly. Honestly this new building would cause me to cut down on visits.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
The current library is a piece of Warehouse District history, even though it falls outside of the protection of the Historic Warehouse / South 8th Street Historic District, and as such it would be terrible to see it demolished. If a new central library is needed, why not closer to the Mall area where it would be more central for Boise residents, and the downtown library could become a branch library? Or just more branch libraries throughout the city? I really like your idea of the Armory for Arts & History and event space. Then the Fort Boise Community Center could be updated and that area would serve as a community gathering space.
The current library is a piece of Warehouse District history, even though it falls outside of the protection of the Historic Warehouse / South 8th Street Historic District, and as such it would be terrible to see it demolished. If a new central library is needed, why not closer to the Mall area where it would be more central for Boise residents, and the downtown library could become a branch library? Or just more branch libraries throughout the city? I really like your idea of the Armory for Arts & History and event space. Then the Fort Boise Community Center could be updated and that area would serve as a community gathering space.
Supported a comment by R Lange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
R Lange
Scott has a really great alternative location idea!
Scott has a really great alternative location idea!
Supported a comment by R Lange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
R Lange
Another really good alternative idea for Arts and History location!
Another really good alternative idea for Arts and History location!
Supported a comment by scott tagg on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
scott tagg
Arts and history needs their own location, and we need a city of Boise museum. Boise Armory has been vacant for too long. Plus there should be enough room and parking for a 300 seat venue.
Arts and history needs their own location, and we need a city of Boise museum. Boise Armory has been vacant for too long. Plus there should be enough room and parking for a 300 seat venue.
Supported a comment by R Lange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
R Lange
Incorporate the historic log cabin into the new history center. Provide interpretive information about the log cabin; the site, it's original purpose and scope within state history and economy. Create a history of logging and use of wood products within Idaho as first new program for the history center.
Incorporate the historic log cabin into the new history center. Provide interpretive information about the log cabin; the site, it's original purpose and scope within state history and economy. Create a history of logging and use of wood products within Idaho as first new program for the history center.
Supported a comment by Matthew Castel on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Matthew Castel
I think the modern look is nice, but the southern exposure will have too much sun and cause issues with the cooling costs and the bleaching of library materials. The design may also cause issues with traffic by blinding northbound drivers.
I think the modern look is nice, but the southern exposure will have too much sun and cause issues with the cooling costs and the bleaching of library materials. The design may also cause issues with traffic by blinding northbound drivers.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Lynette Daudt
And, I whole-heartedly agree with him, Margie!
And, I whole-heartedly agree with him, Margie!
Supported a comment by Margie Baehr on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Margie Baehr
This comment was written and submitted by my husband, Paul Baehr.
This comment was written and submitted by my husband, Paul Baehr.
Supported a comment by Margie Baehr on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Margie Baehr
It's an albatross! This is a giant structure with no parking. Public transit is inadequate. We lose green-space and the literary Cabin. Unfortunately, a gift shop and snack bar will not be a significant draw for foot traffic. Because of inadequate parking, this new library will be utilized even less than the current Library! I fear that this new library will become a liability, not an asset. Duplication of services is also a concern. Specifically I'm referring to the plans for curated art space. We have a lovely, small art museum, BAM, right across Capital Blvd, with experience in showcasing local artists as well as bringing significant exhibitions to Boise. Besides, BAM has inadequate exhibit space for it's large collection of excellent art. Will BAM be responsible for the art gallery space at the new library, or has the city decided to hire duplicate staff to manage this area? If the city is going to "go big" with the "Gateway to the City" concept, wouldn't a better gateway include plans to save the Cabin and pair a smaller new library with an expanded Boise Art Museum facility directly across Capital Blvd?
It's an albatross! This is a giant structure with no parking. Public transit is inadequate. We lose green-space and the literary Cabin. Unfortunately, a gift shop and snack bar will not be a significant draw for foot traffic. Because of inadequate parking, this new library will be utilized even less than the current Library! I fear that this new library will become a liability, not an asset. Duplication of services is also a concern. Specifically I'm referring to the plans for curated art space. We have a lovely, small art museum, BAM, right across Capital Blvd, with experience in showcasing local artists as well as bringing significant exhibitions to Boise. Besides, BAM has inadequate exhibit space for it's large collection of excellent art. Will BAM be responsible for the art gallery space at the new library, or has the city decided to hire duplicate staff to manage this area? If the city is going to "go big" with the "Gateway to the City" concept, wouldn't a better gateway include plans to save the Cabin and pair a smaller new library with an expanded Boise Art Museum facility directly across Capital Blvd?
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Agree. We need to see a lot more information about the funding and long-term m&o and personnel costs.
Agree. We need to see a lot more information about the funding and long-term m&o and personnel costs.
Supported a comment by Scott K. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Scott K.
What would help city leaders is for the public to discuss and consider alternative designs along with project and operations and maintenance costs. For instance, the costs of maintaining the current library vs establishing branches throughout the city vs standalone event centers and the Boise Arts and History Center. It seems as if the public is being asked to consider a yes or no answer to a design that may or not be modified further. A cost benefit analysis that considers a variety of alternatives would help build support.
What would help city leaders is for the public to discuss and consider alternative designs along with project and operations and maintenance costs. For instance, the costs of maintaining the current library vs establishing branches throughout the city vs standalone event centers and the Boise Arts and History Center. It seems as if the public is being asked to consider a yes or no answer to a design that may or not be modified further. A cost benefit analysis that considers a variety of alternatives would help build support.
Supported a comment by Dave T. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Dave T.
This survey is so poorly implemented and does not match the one on the Main Library site. I had prepared comments for the "Other Comments" section and then get here to find there is not place to leave other comments. I would have used the one on the main library site but that one has been giving a "500: Internal Server Error" all weekend and into today, the last day of the survey. So where do I give my actual feedback???? I think the initial visioning workshops where a joke. I read the executive summary and on the first page it even states “project goals and objectives for the project as set by the project steering committee are summarized as follows”. The project goals and objectives were already set before that visioning workshop. A project of this size should be put to a bond/levy vote.
This survey is so poorly implemented and does not match the one on the Main Library site. I had prepared comments for the "Other Comments" section and then get here to find there is not place to leave other comments. I would have used the one on the main library site but that one has been giving a "500: Internal Server Error" all weekend and into today, the last day of the survey. So where do I give my actual feedback???? I think the initial visioning workshops where a joke. I read the executive summary and on the first page it even states “project goals and objectives for the project as set by the project steering committee are summarized as follows”. The project goals and objectives were already set before that visioning workshop. A project of this size should be put to a bond/levy vote.
Supported a comment by Pamela B. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Pamela B.
I haven't seen any information of how we're going to pay for this in the long run. Such a big beautiful building needs to be maintained. Salaries need to be paid. Gardeners need to maintain all the new plants. I'm very concerned about how much this is going to cost after it's built.
I haven't seen any information of how we're going to pay for this in the long run. Such a big beautiful building needs to be maintained. Salaries need to be paid. Gardeners need to maintain all the new plants. I'm very concerned about how much this is going to cost after it's built.
Supported a comment by Frances Capell on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Frances Capell
I am not impressed. It is too large for Boise, plus a more modest design would leave funds for salaries and utilities. So in summary, too expensive, too grandiose, too much glass, too many redundancies, not enough parking, does not preserve the Log Cabin. The public of Boise should have input into the design of PUBLIC buildings.
I am not impressed. It is too large for Boise, plus a more modest design would leave funds for salaries and utilities. So in summary, too expensive, too grandiose, too much glass, too many redundancies, not enough parking, does not preserve the Log Cabin. The public of Boise should have input into the design of PUBLIC buildings.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
If we are going to copy SLC, let's start with their process. Bring a funding levy to the people first. Then offer multiple design concepts from multiple architectural firms for consideration. Truly work with residents and listen to patrons.
If we are going to copy SLC, let's start with their process. Bring a funding levy to the people first. Then offer multiple design concepts from multiple architectural firms for consideration. Truly work with residents and listen to patrons.
Supported a comment by C Shaw on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
C Shaw
My family currently visits the library at least once a week. Onsite parking is crucial in maintaining the convenience and habit of library use. This design destroys another part of our historic downtown by removing the Cabin and expresses a paradigm of excess and waste. Boise is well supplied with affordable, family friendly theaters and BAM is directly across the street. This would be a better place for the Arts and History piece. Good libraries are so important...this design does not emphasis or celebrate the Library!.
My family currently visits the library at least once a week. Onsite parking is crucial in maintaining the convenience and habit of library use. This design destroys another part of our historic downtown by removing the Cabin and expresses a paradigm of excess and waste. Boise is well supplied with affordable, family friendly theaters and BAM is directly across the street. This would be a better place for the Arts and History piece. Good libraries are so important...this design does not emphasis or celebrate the Library!.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Significantly less than the 2-3 times per week that I use the library now, if at all. This proposed campus lacks Boise history, character, and identity; and looks unwelcoming in its grandeur. I go to the main library for books, programming, friendly staff, and its unique spaces (the storywell, curved book shelves, windows overlooking staff desks topped with generations of storybook characters, central stairwell, and on); I am not looking for a Barnes & Noble shopping experience or views of the river.
Significantly less than the 2-3 times per week that I use the library now, if at all. This proposed campus lacks Boise history, character, and identity; and looks unwelcoming in its grandeur. I go to the main library for books, programming, friendly staff, and its unique spaces (the storywell, curved book shelves, windows overlooking staff desks topped with generations of storybook characters, central stairwell, and on); I am not looking for a Barnes & Noble shopping experience or views of the river.
Supported a comment by Ule Gould on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Ule Gould
I really like the re-use of exiting buildings like Ustick and Collister. We do not need a fancy new building.
I really like the re-use of exiting buildings like Ustick and Collister. We do not need a fancy new building.
Supported a comment by Ranelle Nabring on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Ranelle Nabring
What about the basement? Will it be preserved?
What about the basement? Will it be preserved?
Supported a comment by Jamie Kaiser on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Jamie Kaiser
I would like to see a design that is less modern and that fits in better with the aesthetic of Boise.
I would like to see a design that is less modern and that fits in better with the aesthetic of Boise.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Expansion of the adjacent South 8th Street Historic District would provide protection for these buildings. This area is already included in a CCDC urban renewal district. The two district designations often overlap in the downtown area.
Expansion of the adjacent South 8th Street Historic District would provide protection for these buildings. This area is already included in a CCDC urban renewal district. The two district designations often overlap in the downtown area.
Supported a comment by Cathy Silak on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Cathy Silak
Parking will be a problem and will adversely impact nearby uses such as the Boise Art Museum and the newly rebuilt Idaho Museum as users vie for spaces. Additional plans for offsite parking will need to progress at the same pace as building the new library.
Parking will be a problem and will adversely impact nearby uses such as the Boise Art Museum and the newly rebuilt Idaho Museum as users vie for spaces. Additional plans for offsite parking will need to progress at the same pace as building the new library.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Well said! This project requires significant funds that the City does not have therefore causing an assumption of debt, and the people should have a vote on if and how to proceed. Bypassing citizen vote in favor of long-term lease financing is not acceptable!
Well said! This project requires significant funds that the City does not have therefore causing an assumption of debt, and the people should have a vote on if and how to proceed. Bypassing citizen vote in favor of long-term lease financing is not acceptable!
Supported a comment by Mary Wallace Dragone on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Mary Wallace Dragone
What is the obsession with collaborative meeting spaces? We already have rooms for that in the current library .
What is the obsession with collaborative meeting spaces? We already have rooms for that in the current library .
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
It lords over the river. The glass and concrete are very stern, and are the antithesis of the lush, welcoming riparian environment. Can you imagine how hot that entrance courtyard will be during our routine 95+ degree days?
It lords over the river. The glass and concrete are very stern, and are the antithesis of the lush, welcoming riparian environment. Can you imagine how hot that entrance courtyard will be during our routine 95+ degree days?
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
David Klinger
Left unspoken in the City of Boise’s reply to this question is the fact that “working with an adjacent property on plans for a parking garage” translates into tearing down another historic structure across the street that currently houses an elementary school (the Foothills School) to build yet another parking garage in our downtown core that’s sterile and goes dead at night. The “City of Trees” must not become “The City of Parking Garages”.
Left unspoken in the City of Boise’s reply to this question is the fact that “working with an adjacent property on plans for a parking garage” translates into tearing down another historic structure across the street that currently houses an elementary school (the Foothills School) to build yet another parking garage in our downtown core that’s sterile and goes dead at night. The “City of Trees” must not become “The City of Parking Garages”.
Supported a comment by Kevin Brandt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Kevin Brandt
There is no information about parking, none is shown in the drawings and the in the paper it has been stated that underground parking is cost prohibitive. There is extremely limited off-site parking in this area. I'm concerned that vanity and design has taken first place over function.
There is no information about parking, none is shown in the drawings and the in the paper it has been stated that underground parking is cost prohibitive. There is extremely limited off-site parking in this area. I'm concerned that vanity and design has taken first place over function.
Supported a comment by George Targee on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
George Targee
There is already a beautiful event center located in Barber Park, with lots of parking - it goes unused most of the time.
There is already a beautiful event center located in Barber Park, with lots of parking - it goes unused most of the time.
Supported a comment by Brooke O. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Brooke O.
more shade, more trees, less windows/reflection and a more thoughtful timeless design
more shade, more trees, less windows/reflection and a more thoughtful timeless design
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Mary Wallace Dragone ..I agree
Supported a comment by Mary Wallace Dragone on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Mary Wallace Dragone
The existing library is great and is paid for! This new space is expensive and appalling. Progress is not always better!
The existing library is great and is paid for! This new space is expensive and appalling. Progress is not always better!
Supported a comment by James Maguire on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
James Maguire
absolutely!
absolutely!
Supported a comment by Ule Gould on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Ule Gould
Less iconic, more modest
Less iconic, more modest
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Christine King
Can you tell us if CSHQA is being paid from that 11.1 million? Thank you.
Can you tell us if CSHQA is being paid from that 11.1 million? Thank you.
Supported a comment by James Maguire on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
James Maguire
Agree
Agree
Supported a comment by Brooke O. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Brooke O.
too flashy and does not compliment the environment or other buildings nearby.
too flashy and does not compliment the environment or other buildings nearby.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
This is the ugliest thing I have ever seen it looks so gross
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
I love that school
Supported a comment by Thomas J Beatty on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Thomas J Beatty
I agree, David. And I still think the failure to include onsite parking in the (initial)design will not doom, but very much limit its usefulness.
I agree, David. And I still think the failure to include onsite parking in the (initial)design will not doom, but very much limit its usefulness.
Supported a comment by Thomas J Beatty on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Thomas J Beatty
Any chance the beautiful design can be re-worked to incorporate onsite parking? I fear that offsite parking will reduce library patronage: offsite parking will just be too inconvenient or patrons so I cut short their visit to qualify for fee parking. Maybe the 22,000 sq ft dedicated to the art & history group (why are they moving to the library?) can be allocated to parking. I just think that not even considering onsite parking is a major design failure. I'm sure a library design can be beautiful AND uncle onsite parking.
Any chance the beautiful design can be re-worked to incorporate onsite parking? I fear that offsite parking will reduce library patronage: offsite parking will just be too inconvenient or patrons so I cut short their visit to qualify for fee parking. Maybe the 22,000 sq ft dedicated to the art & history group (why are they moving to the library?) can be allocated to parking. I just think that not even considering onsite parking is a major design failure. I'm sure a library design can be beautiful AND uncle onsite parking.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Agree completely. I was very disappointed by Safdie's presentation all around.
Agree completely. I was very disappointed by Safdie's presentation all around.
Supported a comment by Suzanne Troje on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Suzanne Troje
When is the next "public input" opportunity?
When is the next "public input" opportunity?
Supported a comment by Colby Spath on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Colby Spath
If it’s the same as the designs already released there’s a blind 90* right turn in that accessibility which will cause accidents and injuries...
If it’s the same as the designs already released there’s a blind 90* right turn in that accessibility which will cause accidents and injuries...
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
April LOrange
I agree with M. Thomas about the city reading all the comments. I'm still waiting for a single reply to any of the points I've raised. They only reply when they have a pat answer they feel makes them look good. Real "additional comments and questions" are ignored.
I agree with M. Thomas about the city reading all the comments. I'm still waiting for a single reply to any of the points I've raised. They only reply when they have a pat answer they feel makes them look good. Real "additional comments and questions" are ignored.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Great comments. I wish City Council and the Library planning committee would take the time to read through all of the comments here.
Great comments. I wish City Council and the Library planning committee would take the time to read through all of the comments here.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
I agree with you M. Thomas
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
No. Our $543,000 bought us one conceptual design from Safdie, who has now been hired with a $11.1 million+ contract to proceed with that one design. The plus is for the future events center, which is now on hold because for $85 million we can't afford it. Parking will be purchased with city money from a private developer when they demolish the Foothills school. There will be no true on-site parking; even the disabled parking will be in the area adjacent to Biomark, essentially across 8th Street from the proposed new building. This concept needs to go back to the drawing board after a public financing vote. Renovate don't demolish, keep The Cabin in its location, incorporate true onsite parking. These objectives are achievable, and if not by this architectvthen hire a different one with a lower price tag who can keep within the original $45 million proposed project budget.
No. Our $543,000 bought us one conceptual design from Safdie, who has now been hired with a $11.1 million+ contract to proceed with that one design. The plus is for the future events center, which is now on hold because for $85 million we can't afford it. Parking will be purchased with city money from a private developer when they demolish the Foothills school. There will be no true on-site parking; even the disabled parking will be in the area adjacent to Biomark, essentially across 8th Street from the proposed new building. This concept needs to go back to the drawing board after a public financing vote. Renovate don't demolish, keep The Cabin in its location, incorporate true onsite parking. These objectives are achievable, and if not by this architectvthen hire a different one with a lower price tag who can keep within the original $45 million proposed project budget.
Supported a comment by Thomas J Beatty on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Thomas J Beatty
Is there a design for the public to review and consider (including costs) that does incorporate onsite parking (not near Biomark or the Foothills School site, but truly onsite) so that we can see what has already been seen by City officials? Possibly two alternatives: one with the Arts & History Dept accommodated, and one keeping them where they are or moving them to alternate facilities. In this way, I think we would feel part of the process, and not just blessing what has already been decided.
Is there a design for the public to review and consider (including costs) that does incorporate onsite parking (not near Biomark or the Foothills School site, but truly onsite) so that we can see what has already been seen by City officials? Possibly two alternatives: one with the Arts & History Dept accommodated, and one keeping them where they are or moving them to alternate facilities. In this way, I think we would feel part of the process, and not just blessing what has already been decided.
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
April LOrange
I remain concerned about the arrangements for disabled parking. Even the inadequate amount of on-site parking loojs far enough away from the main entrance that we who are mobility-impaired but not in wheelchairs will be entirely unable to use the facility. Every time I raise the point, the only response is crickets.
I remain concerned about the arrangements for disabled parking. Even the inadequate amount of on-site parking loojs far enough away from the main entrance that we who are mobility-impaired but not in wheelchairs will be entirely unable to use the facility. Every time I raise the point, the only response is crickets.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Well said!
Excerpts from FY 2019 budget showing the City's choice to disregard their own prioritization process in favor of this project:
p. 16 "As part of the due diligence process, capital projects are subject to prioritization and must compete for limited resources."
p. 139 "In FY 2017, staff developed a process for prioritizing capital projects, however for the FY 2019 capital plan this process was not employed..."
Also interesting that the 57% vote on the 2006 proposed library bond is so close to the "56% favorable sentiment" reading from the July 2018 open house comments. I was assured by the Library Director during the open house that this library project would not move forward without an "overwhelmingly favorable" sentiment. A sentiment just slightly lower than vote for a failed bond attempt hardly seems "overwhelmingly favorable."
Well said!
Excerpts from FY 2019 budget showing the City's choice to disregard their own prioritization process in favor of this project:
p. 16 "As part of the due diligence process, capital projects are subject to prioritization and must compete for limited resources."
p. 139 "In FY 2017, staff developed a process for prioritizing capital projects, however for the FY 2019 capital plan this process was not employed..."
Also interesting that the 57% vote on the 2006 proposed library bond is so close to the "56% favorable sentiment" reading from the July 2018 open house comments. I was assured by the Library Director during the open house that this library project would not move forward without an "overwhelmingly favorable" sentiment. A sentiment just slightly lower than vote for a failed bond attempt hardly seems "overwhelmingly favorable."
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Booooo.. and I will add this baloney. Obviously the best interest of our community is being overlooked and we're being strong-armed into a project and having just built against the will and the wishes of the people.
Supported a comment by Ranelle Nabring on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Ranelle Nabring
The Cabin structure is very much at risk! How will they address the basement?
The Cabin structure is very much at risk! How will they address the basement?
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
M. Thomas
Far too late, and expect the same poorly worded and slanted feedback questions designed to elicit the "positive sentiment" the City is using to justify this project.
Far too late, and expect the same poorly worded and slanted feedback questions designed to elicit the "positive sentiment" the City is using to justify this project.
Supported a comment by Thomas J Beatty on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Thomas J Beatty
Looking forward to the opportunity to make comments on the Schematic Design in the Spring of 2019. However, I am somewhat fearful that it may be too late for any but minor cosmetic changes, i.e. it appears the current design with NO onsite parking and in direct contrast to the aesthetics of surrounding structures. I would like to see some alternatives to the current design. It's a library, not the Guggenheim museum.
Looking forward to the opportunity to make comments on the Schematic Design in the Spring of 2019. However, I am somewhat fearful that it may be too late for any but minor cosmetic changes, i.e. it appears the current design with NO onsite parking and in direct contrast to the aesthetics of surrounding structures. I would like to see some alternatives to the current design. It's a library, not the Guggenheim museum.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Thank you for making that clear. This is truly in my opinion the problem we are all having with this particular project. The city is taking too much of a high hand, not allowing real public opinion, not being truly transparent and not acting in good faith to its Community residence nor anybody
Supported a comment by Alex Jones on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Alex Jones
Can someone please explain why the city of Boise signed a 45 year lease in 2011 on the property right across 8th St and River St? The library expansion has been on the books since the early 2000s so why did the city give away 1.3 acres to such a long lease? Having this land incorporated into the new library design would alleviate the shoehorn effect and allow space for parking, preservation of the Cabin and the important riparian habitat along the Boise River. This whole library plan needs to go back to the drawing board, because, in spite of the current political climate, use of public funds requires public input and approval. That means open discussion, cost analyses and a public vote on the project. CCDC is not the entity that gets to make up the rules as it goes along anymore.
Can someone please explain why the city of Boise signed a 45 year lease in 2011 on the property right across 8th St and River St? The library expansion has been on the books since the early 2000s so why did the city give away 1.3 acres to such a long lease? Having this land incorporated into the new library design would alleviate the shoehorn effect and allow space for parking, preservation of the Cabin and the important riparian habitat along the Boise River. This whole library plan needs to go back to the drawing board, because, in spite of the current political climate, use of public funds requires public input and approval. That means open discussion, cost analyses and a public vote on the project. CCDC is not the entity that gets to make up the rules as it goes along anymore.
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 7 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
The election for Mayor, and for McLean, Clegg, and Ludwig is 11/5/19. Recuit and support candidates with another viewpoint. That is the only resolution to all these issues.
The election for Mayor, and for McLean, Clegg, and Ludwig is 11/5/19. Recuit and support candidates with another viewpoint. That is the only resolution to all these issues.
Supported a comment by Sheila Robertson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Sheila Robertson
For 85+ million I'm sure you can integrate the Cabin and the Library into a complex that would fit the needs of both. The two should be complementary and will careful thought to the outside design a place for outdoor readings and summer youth classes can be integrated. Your real problem will be parking!!
For 85+ million I'm sure you can integrate the Cabin and the Library into a complex that would fit the needs of both. The two should be complementary and will careful thought to the outside design a place for outdoor readings and summer youth classes can be integrated. Your real problem will be parking!!
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Here's the problem the city has led the architect to believe that we don't care about it according to Architects own words we shouldn't care
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
The bottom line is the price is ridiculous over-the-top just amazingly out of touch with what and who Boise is .
Supported a comment by Paul Forstie on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Paul Forstie
Why wasn't a locale architect used? 11.185 million for the architect is outrageous
Why wasn't a locale architect used? 11.185 million for the architect is outrageous
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
$11,185,236 Let that number sink in. $11,185,236 that was buried in a consent item of a nearly 2000 page agenda packet. $11,185,236 is the amount that Boise City Council just approved for Safdie to continue with architectural services on the proposed $103 million library campus. We are reeling in an affordable housing crisis. We are not flush with cash. We do not have the funding for this project just sitting around. Consider this in another perspective. The City is currently contemplating setting up a Land Trust with $20 million - $10 million from City resources, $10 million from philanthropy. While they think about moves like this to address affordable housing, they move full steam ahead on an amenity project by approving an $11.1 million expenditure for architectural plans. Oh, plus a minimum $650,000 to move a historically registered building (The Cabin) to a new site to make way for river views. Shame on you, City of Boise. Shame on you, Mayor Dave Bieter. Shame, shame on you, Council members Lisa E. Sánchez, Lauren McLean, TJ Thomson, Elaine M Clegg, Holli Woodings, Scott Ludwig.
$11,185,236 Let that number sink in. $11,185,236 that was buried in a consent item of a nearly 2000 page agenda packet. $11,185,236 is the amount that Boise City Council just approved for Safdie to continue with architectural services on the proposed $103 million library campus. We are reeling in an affordable housing crisis. We are not flush with cash. We do not have the funding for this project just sitting around. Consider this in another perspective. The City is currently contemplating setting up a Land Trust with $20 million - $10 million from City resources, $10 million from philanthropy. While they think about moves like this to address affordable housing, they move full steam ahead on an amenity project by approving an $11.1 million expenditure for architectural plans. Oh, plus a minimum $650,000 to move a historically registered building (The Cabin) to a new site to make way for river views. Shame on you, City of Boise. Shame on you, Mayor Dave Bieter. Shame, shame on you, Council members Lisa E. Sánchez, Lauren McLean, TJ Thomson, Elaine M Clegg, Holli Woodings, Scott Ludwig.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
It is alarming that we have not been presented with at minimum a 5-year forecast of the increase to maintenance & operation and personnel costs that this proposal would cause.
It is alarming that we have not been presented with at minimum a 5-year forecast of the increase to maintenance & operation and personnel costs that this proposal would cause.
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
April LOrange
Dear City of Boise: Your beautiful is getting in the way of the functional aspects. Glass and cement is a mistake we all made in the 80s. It's hot, blinding, impermeable to runoff, and ages badly (both functionally and aesthetically).
Dear City of Boise: Your beautiful is getting in the way of the functional aspects. Glass and cement is a mistake we all made in the 80s. It's hot, blinding, impermeable to runoff, and ages badly (both functionally and aesthetically).
Supported a comment by George Targee on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
George Targee
I would like to see more thought given to making the library a more practical, functional place / service. I would like less thought and money given to it's beautiful design.
I would like to see more thought given to making the library a more practical, functional place / service. I would like less thought and money given to it's beautiful design.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Bravo!!
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Christine King
If the city had been concerned about "balancing the needs of . . . the greater community good", we would have been presented with options BEFORE this plan had been unveiled. The city would have known costs to relocate the cabin in order to still be used by The Cabin would be closer to twice the amount the city originally pitched. You are correct that this proposal is out of balance--it is all about glossy magazines touting Boise as the nation's convention destination and Bieter's ego. Exactly why the baseball stadium was originally planned so close to downtown rather than the more manageable location now being considered.
If the city had been concerned about "balancing the needs of . . . the greater community good", we would have been presented with options BEFORE this plan had been unveiled. The city would have known costs to relocate the cabin in order to still be used by The Cabin would be closer to twice the amount the city originally pitched. You are correct that this proposal is out of balance--it is all about glossy magazines touting Boise as the nation's convention destination and Bieter's ego. Exactly why the baseball stadium was originally planned so close to downtown rather than the more manageable location now being considered.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
Well said! If city leaders were truly invested in maintaining the Cabin's historic designation, there would be no talk of relocating or even encroaching on the Cabin's current space. This entire library campus proposal is out of balance.
Well said! If city leaders were truly invested in maintaining the Cabin's historic designation, there would be no talk of relocating or even encroaching on the Cabin's current space. This entire library campus proposal is out of balance.
Supported a comment by Alex Jones on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Alex Jones
Of course the Cabin is at risk! The Cabin belongs to the people of Boise...not the literary society that has made the building home for 20+ years... Stop whitewashing this issue. The Cabin needs to stay where it is and the new library design needs to accommodate the historic and VERY local significance of that structure. City of Boise seems committed to the avarice and ambition of developers and their "monetization of things" above any true desire to preserve and protect what has made this city viable. It was the warring factions in past Boise politics that made the downtown a "ghost town" and we are seeing this play out again... the library design is overbearing and the fantasy of Kevin Booer and David Bieter. Lets get some perspective and recognize that the populace is "woke."
Of course the Cabin is at risk! The Cabin belongs to the people of Boise...not the literary society that has made the building home for 20+ years... Stop whitewashing this issue. The Cabin needs to stay where it is and the new library design needs to accommodate the historic and VERY local significance of that structure. City of Boise seems committed to the avarice and ambition of developers and their "monetization of things" above any true desire to preserve and protect what has made this city viable. It was the warring factions in past Boise politics that made the downtown a "ghost town" and we are seeing this play out again... the library design is overbearing and the fantasy of Kevin Booer and David Bieter. Lets get some perspective and recognize that the populace is "woke."
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
My advice to the city in all the powers-that-be is a better carefully cross their T's and Dot their eyes because we're watching and looking and we're listening and we're done with it
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
What the city needs to addresses the fact that nobody wants this do we not have a voice. This is why there is a coalition forming to strike against the city for the handedness their high-handedness whatever you want to call it we're sick of it
Supported a comment by Susan Chaloupka on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Susan Chaloupka
The City of Boise constantly says "thanks for sharing your concerns" but you don't really seem to care...because the City of Boise won't do anything other than what it wants. You can mitigate bird strikes by not putting a huge glass structure on the river, rather than addressing it in "the schematic design phase of the project". Please re-think this project.
The City of Boise constantly says "thanks for sharing your concerns" but you don't really seem to care...because the City of Boise won't do anything other than what it wants. You can mitigate bird strikes by not putting a huge glass structure on the river, rather than addressing it in "the schematic design phase of the project". Please re-think this project.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Yes I agree with your statement and my thought is little by little they have totally weeded out these types of historical education. If you noticed walking around town or Boise Parks and Rec has high-handed they removed historic statues and the director of Boise parks and wrecked his excuse of his reason is that it's a gated historic monuments outdated come on give me a break who is he anyway to make such decisions?
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
I’ve spoken with a number of Boiseans over the past few weeks who’ve told me, “My father (or grandfather or uncle) worked for the CCC in the 1930s in Idaho and liked the place so much he decided to stay”. Several added, “My dad helped build that cabin”. Still others came up to us and said, “When we were elementary school kids who came to Boise on our class tour of the state capital, one of our stops was the state forester’s office in ‘The Cabin,’ where we learned about trees and fire and natural history”. I think there’s a lot of history on that site. Many just don’t know it, or have forgotten it. The proposal for the new library gives us the opportunity to rekindle that conversation.
I’ve spoken with a number of Boiseans over the past few weeks who’ve told me, “My father (or grandfather or uncle) worked for the CCC in the 1930s in Idaho and liked the place so much he decided to stay”. Several added, “My dad helped build that cabin”. Still others came up to us and said, “When we were elementary school kids who came to Boise on our class tour of the state capital, one of our stops was the state forester’s office in ‘The Cabin,’ where we learned about trees and fire and natural history”. I think there’s a lot of history on that site. Many just don’t know it, or have forgotten it. The proposal for the new library gives us the opportunity to rekindle that conversation.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Ugh
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Obviously we need a jackhammer
Supported a comment by Linda Paul on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Linda Paul
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO DRILL THIS IN? MOVING THE CABIN IS NOT AN OPTION!!!!!!! The design needs to be reworked with The Cabin, on it's original site as a top priority.
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO DRILL THIS IN? MOVING THE CABIN IS NOT AN OPTION!!!!!!! The design needs to be reworked with The Cabin, on it's original site as a top priority.
Supported a comment by Heidi Forney on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Heidi Forney
#1. This design does not take into consideration the elderly and disabled of our community. With only a few parking spaces on site, it will be difficult to access the library for those who have problems with walking, especially with the ramps, steps, etc in this kind of design. When you add to it that you are planning a multi-story parking garage across the street, with "maybe" an hour of free parking when it already takes the disabled longer to mobilize where they are going is ridiculous. Then, when it is snow and ice season the sidewalks and streets are even harder to maneuver, or when it is hot and smokey out it is downright dangerous for typical people let alone the disabled. This is a poorly thought out and inappropriate plan. #2. The Cabin is historically significant in its current location. It should remain where it is, and had you chosen a local or regional architect instead of some "big name" architect and requested that they include it as part of the design, I have no doubt that you would have found some uniquely "Boise" ideas come into play. #3. I personally find the design aesthetically displeasing. It doesnt fit with Boise archictecture. It looks like it would fit in San Jose or Los Angeles, but NOT the City of Trees. You need to send this one back to the drawing board and come up with something better.
#1. This design does not take into consideration the elderly and disabled of our community. With only a few parking spaces on site, it will be difficult to access the library for those who have problems with walking, especially with the ramps, steps, etc in this kind of design. When you add to it that you are planning a multi-story parking garage across the street, with "maybe" an hour of free parking when it already takes the disabled longer to mobilize where they are going is ridiculous. Then, when it is snow and ice season the sidewalks and streets are even harder to maneuver, or when it is hot and smokey out it is downright dangerous for typical people let alone the disabled. This is a poorly thought out and inappropriate plan. #2. The Cabin is historically significant in its current location. It should remain where it is, and had you chosen a local or regional architect instead of some "big name" architect and requested that they include it as part of the design, I have no doubt that you would have found some uniquely "Boise" ideas come into play. #3. I personally find the design aesthetically displeasing. It doesnt fit with Boise archictecture. It looks like it would fit in San Jose or Los Angeles, but NOT the City of Trees. You need to send this one back to the drawing board and come up with something better.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
The problem with greenscaping or putting shrubs and trees in is at the back that is so mirrored and shiny and glass that you will have Birds committing suicide
Supported a comment by Judy Lewis Price on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Judy Lewis Price
The Idaho State Capitol should be the "gateway to Boise" not an overblown, designed library. I am totally against the new library design and I believe spending $85-100 million on a pretentious structure is a waste of donated and/or taxpayer funds. In my opinion, the existing library should be updated both structurally and functionally. If other select satellite libraries were either added or updated and equipped equally, in terms of services offered as the current main library, the need to access the main library would be lessened which would take the existing stress off the main library. The congestion in the downtown core and the lack of parking makes accessing the current library difficult and it certainly won't improve with the current concept. I am also adamantly opposed to moving the Cabin. Leave some things as they are.
The Idaho State Capitol should be the "gateway to Boise" not an overblown, designed library. I am totally against the new library design and I believe spending $85-100 million on a pretentious structure is a waste of donated and/or taxpayer funds. In my opinion, the existing library should be updated both structurally and functionally. If other select satellite libraries were either added or updated and equipped equally, in terms of services offered as the current main library, the need to access the main library would be lessened which would take the existing stress off the main library. The congestion in the downtown core and the lack of parking makes accessing the current library difficult and it certainly won't improve with the current concept. I am also adamantly opposed to moving the Cabin. Leave some things as they are.
Supported a comment by LeeJoe Lay on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
LeeJoe Lay
Doesn't look like anything related to the history of Boise, got anything with a western or Oregon trail or River or city of trees theme to it, the mini Sydney opera house look is kind of gratuitous or grandious, or auspicious for the real spirit of Boise, or there you go even hot air balloon inspired would have been cool. Thanks LeeJoe Lay.
Doesn't look like anything related to the history of Boise, got anything with a western or Oregon trail or River or city of trees theme to it, the mini Sydney opera house look is kind of gratuitous or grandious, or auspicious for the real spirit of Boise, or there you go even hot air balloon inspired would have been cool. Thanks LeeJoe Lay.
Supported a comment by Jessie Roberts on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Jessie Roberts
I find demolition of the Foothills School building to create parking depressing. Many people parking at the library are families and the elderly. Parking in a garage across a busy street will be difficult and inconvenient for a lot of users. This is a poor plan, and it would be much better to save and renovate the sweet old building slated for demolition into cool lofts while maintaining the character and history of the area. The library and neighborhood plan will ruin the charm of that area, an area that currently feels very quintessentially Boise.
I find demolition of the Foothills School building to create parking depressing. Many people parking at the library are families and the elderly. Parking in a garage across a busy street will be difficult and inconvenient for a lot of users. This is a poor plan, and it would be much better to save and renovate the sweet old building slated for demolition into cool lofts while maintaining the character and history of the area. The library and neighborhood plan will ruin the charm of that area, an area that currently feels very quintessentially Boise.
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
April LOrange
This looks like a very well-intentioned terrible idea. As follows: * Your disability access is inadequate, both in distance and in number of parking spaces. * In addition to the cabin, the current library building contributes to the character of the neighborhood, while the new one would destroy it. * Natural light is great, but it's the enemy of books and periodicals. The glare would also interfere with computer use, the other big resource at the library. * Unless you're going 100% LEED, having this much glass will lead to incredible thermal load--you're looking at a 20-degree difference between the sunny side and the shady side that no amount of air conditioning can fix. * Additionally, that "lens" wall will reflect sunlight at certain times of day, creating blinding glare on the greenbelt. * All that pale cement/stone/facing is going to create a terrible heat island effect in the summer. I know there's some rooftop garden planed, but that won't make crossing that entry plaza any less brutal. * The hardscaping will also create substantial runoff issues. * Folks tell me this looks like the Sake Lake City library. Can't we have a library that still looks like Boise? Expand the old building if you can. If not, at least use red brick. * Despite the dimensionality in the architecture, the plan for this building makes the same "urban renewal" mistakes most major cities made in the 80s. Let's learn from them instead. I don't want my kids' taxes paying to clean up this mess in 20 years.
This looks like a very well-intentioned terrible idea. As follows: * Your disability access is inadequate, both in distance and in number of parking spaces. * In addition to the cabin, the current library building contributes to the character of the neighborhood, while the new one would destroy it. * Natural light is great, but it's the enemy of books and periodicals. The glare would also interfere with computer use, the other big resource at the library. * Unless you're going 100% LEED, having this much glass will lead to incredible thermal load--you're looking at a 20-degree difference between the sunny side and the shady side that no amount of air conditioning can fix. * Additionally, that "lens" wall will reflect sunlight at certain times of day, creating blinding glare on the greenbelt. * All that pale cement/stone/facing is going to create a terrible heat island effect in the summer. I know there's some rooftop garden planed, but that won't make crossing that entry plaza any less brutal. * The hardscaping will also create substantial runoff issues. * Folks tell me this looks like the Sake Lake City library. Can't we have a library that still looks like Boise? Expand the old building if you can. If not, at least use red brick. * Despite the dimensionality in the architecture, the plan for this building makes the same "urban renewal" mistakes most major cities made in the 80s. Let's learn from them instead. I don't want my kids' taxes paying to clean up this mess in 20 years.
Supported a comment by S Evans on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
S Evans
Drove past the Historical Museum Renovation the other day and started thinking - What if the Library tried to compliment the museum's exterior? Similar stone finish, style, etc. Then, when the Art Museum is ready for their "face lift" they too can compliment the historical museum. Then, it's not just the library, but the entire area that is a breathtaking "gateway" to the city!
Drove past the Historical Museum Renovation the other day and started thinking - What if the Library tried to compliment the museum's exterior? Similar stone finish, style, etc. Then, when the Art Museum is ready for their "face lift" they too can compliment the historical museum. Then, it's not just the library, but the entire area that is a breathtaking "gateway" to the city!
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
There has been so much upset in uproar over the last couple years regarding the High handedness of the city parks and recreation Etc, there is serious talks happening to form a legal type of oversight
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
I would like to know who made the decision that Mr. Safdie should be the architect and that his design would be approved? There are so many other types of buildings that would reflect the geography and culture of Boise, instead of another glass/steel/concrete building that could be seen in any city in the World. Have you seen the beautiful mass-timbered buildings of late? Spectacular. And how right for the City of Trees--at least we once were that.
I would like to know who made the decision that Mr. Safdie should be the architect and that his design would be approved? There are so many other types of buildings that would reflect the geography and culture of Boise, instead of another glass/steel/concrete building that could be seen in any city in the World. Have you seen the beautiful mass-timbered buildings of late? Spectacular. And how right for the City of Trees--at least we once were that.
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
How does “humanistic philosophy” in architecture encompass a respect for history and site in the conceptualuzation of any project like the Boise events center/library? If site and history are sacrificed, does a project cease being fundamentally humanist?
How does “humanistic philosophy” in architecture encompass a respect for history and site in the conceptualuzation of any project like the Boise events center/library? If site and history are sacrificed, does a project cease being fundamentally humanist?
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
Thr sad reality is that the absence of sufficirnt parking in this library design will force the demolition of thr Foothills School building, just for thr construction of yet-another downtown parking deck to service the library. Too much “events center/library” being squeezed into too small a parcel of land hemmed in on three sides by major streets and a river. Poor siting will forever doom this oversized project to being a hard-to-reach venue that most Boiseans will avoid.
Thr sad reality is that the absence of sufficirnt parking in this library design will force the demolition of thr Foothills School building, just for thr construction of yet-another downtown parking deck to service the library. Too much “events center/library” being squeezed into too small a parcel of land hemmed in on three sides by major streets and a river. Poor siting will forever doom this oversized project to being a hard-to-reach venue that most Boiseans will avoid.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Thank you Diane
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
Attend the presentation at the City Council Chambers today at 3:30 PM with the City Council, where some decisions will be made about the library and /or Forester’s Cabin.
Attend the presentation at the City Council Chambers today at 3:30 PM with the City Council, where some decisions will be made about the library and /or Forester’s Cabin.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
I sincerely doubt he has any interest whatsoever what that the community has to say. His attitude and former words have shown that . Why should we allow this man tear down an entire block, beautiful historic buildings. His callous and thoughtless words have had no affect other than rage from our local community.
Supported a comment by Suzanne Troje on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Suzanne Troje
I was hoping this link would allow me to ask a question of Mr. Safdie: In your 2009 essay “On Ethics, Order, and Complexity,” you identify three principles to frame your designs, including: “The essence of place is fundamental to the creation of an architecture of belonging. Good design springs from understanding context.” Many of us who live in Boise identify with its natural surroundings, e.g., the river, the mountain foothills, the birds, the fish. Can you explain whether and, if so how, these elements came into play in your proposed design of the Boise Library?
I was hoping this link would allow me to ask a question of Mr. Safdie: In your 2009 essay “On Ethics, Order, and Complexity,” you identify three principles to frame your designs, including: “The essence of place is fundamental to the creation of an architecture of belonging. Good design springs from understanding context.” Many of us who live in Boise identify with its natural surroundings, e.g., the river, the mountain foothills, the birds, the fish. Can you explain whether and, if so how, these elements came into play in your proposed design of the Boise Library?
Supported a comment by Diane Ronayne on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Ronayne
You obviously have built many buildings on bare land. Have you ever built a building that incorporates and honors another building that was already standing on that land? Is there a way the spirit of the Boise library--historical archive, performance center and materials repository--that you and City Council envision can include the living history of the Log Cabin, too?
You obviously have built many buildings on bare land. Have you ever built a building that incorporates and honors another building that was already standing on that land? Is there a way the spirit of the Boise library--historical archive, performance center and materials repository--that you and City Council envision can include the living history of the Log Cabin, too?
Supported a comment by Shannon Peterson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Shannon Peterson
why does he have to give boise a copy of his SLC library instead of looking at the needs for the community?
why does he have to give boise a copy of his SLC library instead of looking at the needs for the community?
Supported a comment by Shannon Peterson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Shannon Peterson
Our quilt group sews every month at the library - many times to donate to those in need. The need to carry our equipment from two blocks away (parking) would make it very hard to continue our community use of the library. We need more parking on site. Can you make that happen?
Our quilt group sews every month at the library - many times to donate to those in need. The need to carry our equipment from two blocks away (parking) would make it very hard to continue our community use of the library. We need more parking on site. Can you make that happen?
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
I love your quilts and I enjoyed them hanging in our beautiful Library.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Exactly makes me wonder just what the heck is going on around here again you cannot help but think that there must be some backdoor dealings for such an ostentatious horrific thing to be even considered.
Supported a comment by Ted Jewell on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Ted Jewell
The new library should be more than a monument to the architect. It should respect the city's history and modify the design to include the Cabin in its original location. The test of the project's success will be the long-time usage and acceptance of the overall site and the library.
The new library should be more than a monument to the architect. It should respect the city's history and modify the design to include the Cabin in its original location. The test of the project's success will be the long-time usage and acceptance of the overall site and the library.
Supported a comment by Paula Benson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Paula Benson
I was quite surprised to hear Mr. Safdie refer to those in Boise who are concerned about the fate of the cabin as being unnecessarily "excited" about it. He states that he thought we should, or would, be more concerned about the money. He says that "as an outsider" he has determined that we should not care about the cabin because no one will remember where it was in a year. Is it appropriate to dictate what we should think and what we should care about as a city? I appreciate his expertise in architecture but I am dismayed at his tone-deaf approach to legitimate concerns voiced about the moving of a historic building. He may not have meant to but his remarks, as can be seen on video, seem dismissive and patronizing. Respectfully, his vision should be our vision not the other way around.
I was quite surprised to hear Mr. Safdie refer to those in Boise who are concerned about the fate of the cabin as being unnecessarily "excited" about it. He states that he thought we should, or would, be more concerned about the money. He says that "as an outsider" he has determined that we should not care about the cabin because no one will remember where it was in a year. Is it appropriate to dictate what we should think and what we should care about as a city? I appreciate his expertise in architecture but I am dismayed at his tone-deaf approach to legitimate concerns voiced about the moving of a historic building. He may not have meant to but his remarks, as can be seen on video, seem dismissive and patronizing. Respectfully, his vision should be our vision not the other way around.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
I might add the same could be said for him
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Dan your comment by the way, is probably the best representation of the discouragement and the discussed so many of us feel that are not able to articulate in words thank you again for all of that
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
No one knew Capitol Boulevard was going to be a significant spot, Mr. Safdie said last night? The early settlers congregated around it with their beautiful homes on Grove and Front and Broad, abutting Capitol Boulevard. The Statehouse gave prominence to our own grand boulevard on one end and the Depot on the other. And the historical museum, the art museum, and the cabin, reflecting our history in forestry, were put in the most acknowledged, important site in the City. The insensitive and unsympathetic nature of this man’s comments toward our community take my breath away. He, who demeans the heartfelt perspective of many, should not decide what goes on this beautiful site. I'd say this is a "failed search" for an architect and a building, and it should be started afresh. How about a mass-timbered building for the City of Trees? I know we are fast becoming the City of Steel, Concrete and Prefab, but let's not add to that dismay with a significant taxpayer-funded public building.
No one knew Capitol Boulevard was going to be a significant spot, Mr. Safdie said last night? The early settlers congregated around it with their beautiful homes on Grove and Front and Broad, abutting Capitol Boulevard. The Statehouse gave prominence to our own grand boulevard on one end and the Depot on the other. And the historical museum, the art museum, and the cabin, reflecting our history in forestry, were put in the most acknowledged, important site in the City. The insensitive and unsympathetic nature of this man’s comments toward our community take my breath away. He, who demeans the heartfelt perspective of many, should not decide what goes on this beautiful site. I'd say this is a "failed search" for an architect and a building, and it should be started afresh. How about a mass-timbered building for the City of Trees? I know we are fast becoming the City of Steel, Concrete and Prefab, but let's not add to that dismay with a significant taxpayer-funded public building.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
I read your thoughtful comment and agree with you. The new design does not reflect in any way shape or form the forestry the beautifulness of the nature of the Grandeur of our beautiful city of trees
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
Al public feedback is available towards the bottom of this article.
https://boisedev.com/news/2018/08/07/boise-public-library-the-cabin-anne-frank-wilcomb/
Al public feedback is available towards the bottom of this article.
https://boisedev.com/news/2018/08/07/boise-public-library-the-cabin-anne-frank-wilcomb/
Supported a comment by Pam Brewer on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Pam Brewer
When will comments from open houses be posted?
When will comments from open houses be posted?
Supported a comment by Kelee Newhall on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Kelee Newhall
Where is the parking? Underground? Parking already limited with smaller library footprint... This is a similar design to Cerritos CA library 21st century update. They provided ample parking both above and below ground.
Where is the parking? Underground? Parking already limited with smaller library footprint... This is a similar design to Cerritos CA library 21st century update. They provided ample parking both above and below ground.
Supported a comment by Gary Zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Gary Zimmerman
Interesting article relating to the potential new library from Don Day. Raises some real concerns over the selection process along with questions regarding appropriateness for Boise. Please see https://boisedev.com/news/2018/10/03/boise-library-moshie-safdie-associates/.
Interesting article relating to the potential new library from Don Day. Raises some real concerns over the selection process along with questions regarding appropriateness for Boise. Please see https://boisedev.com/news/2018/10/03/boise-library-moshie-safdie-associates/.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Don Day..for Mayor!!
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lol
Supported a comment by michael munfs on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
michael munfs
If the idea is to put up as much shiny surface material as the city can afford, enclose the Library! and parking lot in an inflated plastic dome.
If the idea is to put up as much shiny surface material as the city can afford, enclose the Library! and parking lot in an inflated plastic dome.
Supported a comment by bonnie zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
bonnie zimmerman
The bicycle and pedestrian access to downtown is vital for access to parks, downtown. It provides a safe way for all of boise to access downtown.
The bicycle and pedestrian access to downtown is vital for access to parks, downtown. It provides a safe way for all of boise to access downtown.
Supported a comment by Colby Spath on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Colby Spath
I'm concerned about the design incorporating the Greenbelt. 8th St is a vital access point and transit corridor for cyclists and pedestrians going from the North End to Downtown then accessing either the Greenbelt or crossing the Boise River to go to Lusk/BSU/Bench. The current design seems to obscure this connection rather than enhance it. Certain aspects even seem to make it seem like there's a dangerous blind corner being built right there. I'm also concerned about access to the Greenbelt and train bridge during construction. Local recent history has shown us that detours for pedestrians and cyclists is often a poor afterthought during Downtown or Greenbelt construction. I hope these concerns are contemplated and addressed. Thanks!
I'm concerned about the design incorporating the Greenbelt. 8th St is a vital access point and transit corridor for cyclists and pedestrians going from the North End to Downtown then accessing either the Greenbelt or crossing the Boise River to go to Lusk/BSU/Bench. The current design seems to obscure this connection rather than enhance it. Certain aspects even seem to make it seem like there's a dangerous blind corner being built right there. I'm also concerned about access to the Greenbelt and train bridge during construction. Local recent history has shown us that detours for pedestrians and cyclists is often a poor afterthought during Downtown or Greenbelt construction. I hope these concerns are contemplated and addressed. Thanks!
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Whoohoo..thank you Amy
Supported a comment by Amy W on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Amy W
Agreed, well said. Today is the city council meeting, and their is a petition on change.org
Agreed, well said. Today is the city council meeting, and their is a petition on change.org
Supported a comment by bonnie zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
bonnie zimmerman
How many of the in favor of boise spending millions of dollars to highlight boise downtown will ever go to the new library. I live downtown boise. I will go to the library a couple of times a month. My friends and family do not like to come downtown and pay for parking. People from out of town may visit once. We have a library, a history museum, an art gallery, and many locations for conferences. Boise is already a beautiful place, we don’t need someone else’s idea of what we need and what they think is glamorous.we definitely don’t need multiple years of construction ruining the best part of boise, the green belt. What will it look like in a couple of years when we run out of money. It is already too expensive to live in boise,
How many of the in favor of boise spending millions of dollars to highlight boise downtown will ever go to the new library. I live downtown boise. I will go to the library a couple of times a month. My friends and family do not like to come downtown and pay for parking. People from out of town may visit once. We have a library, a history museum, an art gallery, and many locations for conferences. Boise is already a beautiful place, we don’t need someone else’s idea of what we need and what they think is glamorous.we definitely don’t need multiple years of construction ruining the best part of boise, the green belt. What will it look like in a couple of years when we run out of money. It is already too expensive to live in boise,
Supported a comment by Ranelle Nabring on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Ranelle Nabring
Wow, I did not realize that The Cabin had recently undergone ADA upgrades. That's not something to overlook! I really think the design undermines a piece of history and overlooks what many Boiseans hold to be dear about our downtown core. Urban Renewal all over again! Save this jewel and piece of our history!
Wow, I did not realize that The Cabin had recently undergone ADA upgrades. That's not something to overlook! I really think the design undermines a piece of history and overlooks what many Boiseans hold to be dear about our downtown core. Urban Renewal all over again! Save this jewel and piece of our history!
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
E.B. Schofield
Boise really cannot afford this, yet another $650,000 to relocate a piece of history, when the Public Safety Bond is 100% over budget, this library project will drive the Capital Fund into a negative position (as stated in the 2019 Annual Budget), City Staff personnel costs rise every year, and areas of the City lack equal tax supported municipal services.
Boise really cannot afford this, yet another $650,000 to relocate a piece of history, when the Public Safety Bond is 100% over budget, this library project will drive the Capital Fund into a negative position (as stated in the 2019 Annual Budget), City Staff personnel costs rise every year, and areas of the City lack equal tax supported municipal services.
Supported a comment by E.B. Schofield on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
E.B. Schofield
The 2018 City of Boise Citizen Survey data clearly show this type of project as a lesser priority, at this point in time. • Survey had nine (9) key areas representing different functions of government, ranked on a scale of 0 – 20. • Community services, which include libraries, came in 7th with a score of 8.82. This low ranking may be due to the fact that the City recently spent $8.5 million on the Harris Ranch/Southeast branch library in 2017, and that library expenditures historically tend not to rank high for Boise citizens, per the 57% vote on the 2006 proposed library bond.
The 2018 City of Boise Citizen Survey data clearly show this type of project as a lesser priority, at this point in time. • Survey had nine (9) key areas representing different functions of government, ranked on a scale of 0 – 20. • Community services, which include libraries, came in 7th with a score of 8.82. This low ranking may be due to the fact that the City recently spent $8.5 million on the Harris Ranch/Southeast branch library in 2017, and that library expenditures historically tend not to rank high for Boise citizens, per the 57% vote on the 2006 proposed library bond.
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
Certainly not the parking. I suppose I might sit on the front lawn every so often and mourn, and wonder why history — in the form of The Cabin — was booted off the property to achieve ... a lawn. And then I would wonder why a historic cabin was exiled from its historic place because it didn’t interfere with either the footprint of the new library or with the limited parking that resulted. Finally, I would ponder why Boise history was scraped off this parcel, just so the City of Boise’s arts and history program could be re-located from City Hall to the new library. I’d consider the irony of that outcome, just like in Vietnam how we onced needed to “destroy the village in order to save it”. Yes, the new library would give me a place to reflect on such inequities.
Certainly not the parking. I suppose I might sit on the front lawn every so often and mourn, and wonder why history — in the form of The Cabin — was booted off the property to achieve ... a lawn. And then I would wonder why a historic cabin was exiled from its historic place because it didn’t interfere with either the footprint of the new library or with the limited parking that resulted. Finally, I would ponder why Boise history was scraped off this parcel, just so the City of Boise’s arts and history program could be re-located from City Hall to the new library. I’d consider the irony of that outcome, just like in Vietnam how we onced needed to “destroy the village in order to save it”. Yes, the new library would give me a place to reflect on such inequities.
Supported a comment by Scott K. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Scott K.
Absolutely not. Where is the access to the Greenbelt? Where are elements of the Boise River reflected in the design? It's a lot of concrete and glass with beige walls - emphasis on the walls, concrete or glass that separate individuals from access to both the river and Greenbelt. . The Boise River, to me, is free flowing, wild, clean, and green.
Absolutely not. Where is the access to the Greenbelt? Where are elements of the Boise River reflected in the design? It's a lot of concrete and glass with beige walls - emphasis on the walls, concrete or glass that separate individuals from access to both the river and Greenbelt. . The Boise River, to me, is free flowing, wild, clean, and green.
Supported a comment by Jay Carlisle on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Jay Carlisle
I would like the City to ensure bird-safe designs - in terms of glass being bird-safe but also the overall design. I.e., best not to have trees/other vegetation that is attractive to birds be near windows as it might act as a "trap" - luring birds into an area where the risk of window strikes is high. Also, why move the building closer to the river? Keeping it closer to River Street would maintain more of a distance between the library building and the important bird habitat while also likely preserving The Cabin (not important to me but clearly important to many others).
I would like the City to ensure bird-safe designs - in terms of glass being bird-safe but also the overall design. I.e., best not to have trees/other vegetation that is attractive to birds be near windows as it might act as a "trap" - luring birds into an area where the risk of window strikes is high. Also, why move the building closer to the river? Keeping it closer to River Street would maintain more of a distance between the library building and the important bird habitat while also likely preserving The Cabin (not important to me but clearly important to many others).
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lynette Daudt
Yes, true public input that actually wants to work with the public is what's needed. I didn't even know about this until very recently. And drawing in "out-of-towners"?! ridiculous! A library is for the locals. Our numerous event enters, stadiums and theaters are for the out of town draw. We have enough of those already. Who's behind this? Who wants the old event center to be sold/torn down and for what? Who's name is going on this complex? This is all too grandiose to be for "Boiseans", the people.
Yes, true public input that actually wants to work with the public is what's needed. I didn't even know about this until very recently. And drawing in "out-of-towners"?! ridiculous! A library is for the locals. Our numerous event enters, stadiums and theaters are for the out of town draw. We have enough of those already. Who's behind this? Who wants the old event center to be sold/torn down and for what? Who's name is going on this complex? This is all too grandiose to be for "Boiseans", the people.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
Additional comments is not open for comments. The survey links are not allowing people to submit feedback. As a high-use patron, I have been shocked at the lack of public input or outreach for this project, starting with the Visioning Workshops. The stated goals were created by “the project steering committee” according to the available executive summary – what does being an iconic gateway, a destination for out-of-towners, or incorporating the River have to do with a library? How many people were included in these workshops from diverse populations, non-English speakers, homeless coalition, refugee community, varying accessibility needs, etc.? There have been no signs in the libraries, no outreach other than Facebook and the main web site. Regular patrons have no knowledge of the proposed plan, much less the July open houses. The open house at the main library was on a Friday evening, during a heavy vacation month, and 1 ½ of the 2 hour period was after the library had closed. This process needs to slow down: offer visioning workshops that do not start with a presentation of the proposed space based on 2014 and earlier data; host the open house series once per week over a series of weeks; leave the survey link open at least one month; have large posters with the plan, open house dates, and survey links at the entrance of each library branch.
Additional comments is not open for comments. The survey links are not allowing people to submit feedback. As a high-use patron, I have been shocked at the lack of public input or outreach for this project, starting with the Visioning Workshops. The stated goals were created by “the project steering committee” according to the available executive summary – what does being an iconic gateway, a destination for out-of-towners, or incorporating the River have to do with a library? How many people were included in these workshops from diverse populations, non-English speakers, homeless coalition, refugee community, varying accessibility needs, etc.? There have been no signs in the libraries, no outreach other than Facebook and the main web site. Regular patrons have no knowledge of the proposed plan, much less the July open houses. The open house at the main library was on a Friday evening, during a heavy vacation month, and 1 ½ of the 2 hour period was after the library had closed. This process needs to slow down: offer visioning workshops that do not start with a presentation of the proposed space based on 2014 and earlier data; host the open house series once per week over a series of weeks; leave the survey link open at least one month; have large posters with the plan, open house dates, and survey links at the entrance of each library branch.
Supported a comment by Gary Zimmerman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Gary Zimmerman
(1) I really would like to see a design that focuses on being a library and not everything else. For example we have a history museum that was recently remodeled and may be a good choice for a center for arts and history. Also JUMP and Anne Frank could be better utilized for teaching and event space. (2) A modular, fiscally responsible, design and construction plan that allows a more phased build out over time. This could allow the plan to react to changes in the community overtime as well. (3) This library project should not take away from the mission to bring materials to all locations of the valley with branch libraries, etc. This project seems to overpower and take away from the core mission and value of libraries within the overall community.
(1) I really would like to see a design that focuses on being a library and not everything else. For example we have a history museum that was recently remodeled and may be a good choice for a center for arts and history. Also JUMP and Anne Frank could be better utilized for teaching and event space. (2) A modular, fiscally responsible, design and construction plan that allows a more phased build out over time. This could allow the plan to react to changes in the community overtime as well. (3) This library project should not take away from the mission to bring materials to all locations of the valley with branch libraries, etc. This project seems to overpower and take away from the core mission and value of libraries within the overall community.
Supported a comment by Shauna Swank on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Shauna Swank
I'd like to see the log cabin incorporated. Boise too often sacrifices the past on the alter of the now believing it's buying the future.
I'd like to see the log cabin incorporated. Boise too often sacrifices the past on the alter of the now believing it's buying the future.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lynette Daudt
Couldn't agree more.
Couldn't agree more.
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
I would like to see less. “Less” can sometimes be “more”. First, it’s apparent that this design is less of a library and more of a “social events center” that relegates library functions to the background, almost as an afterthought. Library functions need greater prominence in this structure, not less. As far as the “urban meeting place” and “epicenter of culture” sales pitches for this new design, I thought Boise was supposed to already possess an “urban meeting place”? It’s called JUMP. Have you considered the possibility that two “urban meeting places” (requiring two massive parking structures) may tend to de-market each other? Pity this project wasn’t approached 10 years ago as a “public-private partnership” between the City of Boise and the Simplot Corporation that would have consolidated all of these functions (library, arts, meeting space, etc.) into one really outstanding venue. It’s called “achieving critical mass” and had these projects been approached collectively, instead of “stove-piping” them separately, we might have gotten a single, better facility, at less overall cost, than two duplicative facilities that may wind up consuming valuable downtown space while providing limited services for the average Boise resident. A real missed opportunity.
I would like to see less. “Less” can sometimes be “more”. First, it’s apparent that this design is less of a library and more of a “social events center” that relegates library functions to the background, almost as an afterthought. Library functions need greater prominence in this structure, not less. As far as the “urban meeting place” and “epicenter of culture” sales pitches for this new design, I thought Boise was supposed to already possess an “urban meeting place”? It’s called JUMP. Have you considered the possibility that two “urban meeting places” (requiring two massive parking structures) may tend to de-market each other? Pity this project wasn’t approached 10 years ago as a “public-private partnership” between the City of Boise and the Simplot Corporation that would have consolidated all of these functions (library, arts, meeting space, etc.) into one really outstanding venue. It’s called “achieving critical mass” and had these projects been approached collectively, instead of “stove-piping” them separately, we might have gotten a single, better facility, at less overall cost, than two duplicative facilities that may wind up consuming valuable downtown space while providing limited services for the average Boise resident. A real missed opportunity.
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
It is absolutely unacceptable that the cabin be moved to another location. And moving it to that string of orphaned buildings in Julia Davis Park is beyond unacceptable. What this building is, and where it is are the same thing. I agree with every comment in the Idaho Statesman editorial of July 22nd.
It is absolutely unacceptable that the cabin be moved to another location. And moving it to that string of orphaned buildings in Julia Davis Park is beyond unacceptable. What this building is, and where it is are the same thing. I agree with every comment in the Idaho Statesman editorial of July 22nd.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lynette Daudt
"heat into the greenbelt area" is a very important consideration. An all glass wall could significantly change the river habitat!
"heat into the greenbelt area" is a very important consideration. An all glass wall could significantly change the river habitat!
Supported a comment by Sonja Vogt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Sonja Vogt
This building is first and foremost a library. So the space for the library should be the main focus. The rooftop gardens proposed for the Center for Arts & History and Event Space are similar to those seen in downtown Portland. The gardens are very attractive, as long as they do not add a great deal of structural cost. I am always in favor of greenery incorporated into urban environments. Thinking about blending into the natural environment more thought should to be put into the south facing wall of windows. The impact on wildlife, and reflection of light and heat into the Greenbelt area and the adjoining street would be detrimental.
This building is first and foremost a library. So the space for the library should be the main focus. The rooftop gardens proposed for the Center for Arts & History and Event Space are similar to those seen in downtown Portland. The gardens are very attractive, as long as they do not add a great deal of structural cost. I am always in favor of greenery incorporated into urban environments. Thinking about blending into the natural environment more thought should to be put into the south facing wall of windows. The impact on wildlife, and reflection of light and heat into the Greenbelt area and the adjoining street would be detrimental.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Local is what is we are..this is a invasion of the concept "local"
Supported a comment by James Maguire on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
James Maguire
Agree; more clarity on financing plan is needed.
Agree; more clarity on financing plan is needed.
Supported a comment by Dave T. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Dave T.
A better set of survey questions. The question 2 packs too much in and i can’t say yes to every aspect of the question so I have to say no. I’d like to see other INNOVATIVE plans by local architects that incorporate the existing warehouse building and keep the cabin where it is. I would like to see a more detailed budget That includes the sources of money instead of a line item marked “Other” for $53.8 million in the budget.
A better set of survey questions. The question 2 packs too much in and i can’t say yes to every aspect of the question so I have to say no. I’d like to see other INNOVATIVE plans by local architects that incorporate the existing warehouse building and keep the cabin where it is. I would like to see a more detailed budget That includes the sources of money instead of a line item marked “Other” for $53.8 million in the budget.
Supported a comment by Kathy Crowley on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Kathy Crowley
Once again, I want to reiterate the need to protect the birds especially since the project is adjacent to our most valuable natural resource, the Boise River! The river is a sanctuary for a multitude of species. We need to be cognizant of the importance of maintaining habitat while meeting the needs of the community. Our song birds are declining in number. Let's protect them as well as our birds of prey and others.
Once again, I want to reiterate the need to protect the birds especially since the project is adjacent to our most valuable natural resource, the Boise River! The river is a sanctuary for a multitude of species. We need to be cognizant of the importance of maintaining habitat while meeting the needs of the community. Our song birds are declining in number. Let's protect them as well as our birds of prey and others.
Supported a comment by Kevin Brandt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Kevin Brandt
I understand and support the need for a new library. However, I don't understand the attached Arts and History center and theater. The art and history museum are literally across the street - what is going to go in this space? If we want more art and history museum space why not put it with the art and history museum. Same with the theater - what would go in here? Would one of the existing theater companies move in - what is wrong with their current facilities? It seems these were added on without real justification.
I understand and support the need for a new library. However, I don't understand the attached Arts and History center and theater. The art and history museum are literally across the street - what is going to go in this space? If we want more art and history museum space why not put it with the art and history museum. Same with the theater - what would go in here? Would one of the existing theater companies move in - what is wrong with their current facilities? It seems these were added on without real justification.
Supported a comment by Jamie Kaiser on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Jamie Kaiser
The only thing from a library that I want is a good collection of books. We literally do not have a good, comprehensive biography of former president Martin Van Buren. I would much rather Boise spend its money on that then another event center pretending to be a library.
The only thing from a library that I want is a good collection of books. We literally do not have a good, comprehensive biography of former president Martin Van Buren. I would much rather Boise spend its money on that then another event center pretending to be a library.
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
I couldn't agree more you said exactly how I feel at most the people I have interacted with about this monsters ostentatious hideous building design they have plans
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
A beautiful, modernist design ... that belongs in Barcelona, Spain, or Abu Dhabi. It’s not a fit with an intermountain city, between foothills and river, whose character and culture are wedded in the Oregon Trail. A contemporary, Prairie School design with Frank Lloyd Wright as its inspiration would have blended better with its environment but still provided inspiration and modernism. A structure that “works” works best when it respects its surroundings, topography, scale, and culture.
A beautiful, modernist design ... that belongs in Barcelona, Spain, or Abu Dhabi. It’s not a fit with an intermountain city, between foothills and river, whose character and culture are wedded in the Oregon Trail. A contemporary, Prairie School design with Frank Lloyd Wright as its inspiration would have blended better with its environment but still provided inspiration and modernism. A structure that “works” works best when it respects its surroundings, topography, scale, and culture.
Supported a comment by Pamela B. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Pamela B.
I know I am in the minority because I do visit other towns' libraries but I love visiting museums. To me it would make sense for the library to focus on our local history and the needs of the local population.
I know I am in the minority because I do visit other towns' libraries but I love visiting museums. To me it would make sense for the library to focus on our local history and the needs of the local population.
Supported a comment by Sharon Tabor on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Sharon Tabor
Should a library be a gateway to a city? Who is asking these questions? I have never visited a local library in any city I have visited over my lifetime. It doesn't mean I don't like libraries, it means I am more likely to visit a museum like our tiny art museum.
Should a library be a gateway to a city? Who is asking these questions? I have never visited a local library in any city I have visited over my lifetime. It doesn't mean I don't like libraries, it means I am more likely to visit a museum like our tiny art museum.
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
One of the unconfirmed reports I have heard is that the City is eyeing the block of interesting old buildings on South 8th, where the Foothills School is now, for a parking garage. So tearing down more interesting, historic buildings that give us a sense of place in trade for perhaps another cinderblock parking garage like the one the City egregiously allowed Gardner to build on Front and 12th? (That is a whole other topic...) That doubles the trauma, when considering the unacceptable loss of the Cabin.
One of the unconfirmed reports I have heard is that the City is eyeing the block of interesting old buildings on South 8th, where the Foothills School is now, for a parking garage. So tearing down more interesting, historic buildings that give us a sense of place in trade for perhaps another cinderblock parking garage like the one the City egregiously allowed Gardner to build on Front and 12th? (That is a whole other topic...) That doubles the trauma, when considering the unacceptable loss of the Cabin.
Supported a comment by Maria Kauffman on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Maria Kauffman
This structure is beautiful but It seems firm has won out over function.I’ve taken my 5.5yo to the library every week since she was an infant. I also recently had knee surgery and have a new awareness of how hard simple errands have become. Reducing onsite parking by 75% and moving parking further away from the library reduces the convenience of the library dramatically and I feel would deter many people from using the main library. I also don’t understand the emphasis on the arts and culture areas. Adding a theater will compound the parking issue. I agree that art should be incorporated into the library, but is a gallery the best use of space when BAM is across the street? Is a theater necessary when JUMP is right around the corner? One of the best features of the main library is the drive through book drop. Will this feature be retained? If you eliminate it are you considering city wide drop of points? I am perplexed the designer simply ignored The Cabin and didn’t incorporate it into the design. Is it necessary to have a large lounging area around the library and on the roof? It feels like overkill and an egregious waste of potential parking and makes it harder for people with disabilities to reach the door. I love that Boise is becoming more cosmopolitan and an upgraded library is overdue. But this library feels unnecessarily extravagant and loses the main function in all the excess.
This structure is beautiful but It seems firm has won out over function.I’ve taken my 5.5yo to the library every week since she was an infant. I also recently had knee surgery and have a new awareness of how hard simple errands have become. Reducing onsite parking by 75% and moving parking further away from the library reduces the convenience of the library dramatically and I feel would deter many people from using the main library. I also don’t understand the emphasis on the arts and culture areas. Adding a theater will compound the parking issue. I agree that art should be incorporated into the library, but is a gallery the best use of space when BAM is across the street? Is a theater necessary when JUMP is right around the corner? One of the best features of the main library is the drive through book drop. Will this feature be retained? If you eliminate it are you considering city wide drop of points? I am perplexed the designer simply ignored The Cabin and didn’t incorporate it into the design. Is it necessary to have a large lounging area around the library and on the roof? It feels like overkill and an egregious waste of potential parking and makes it harder for people with disabilities to reach the door. I love that Boise is becoming more cosmopolitan and an upgraded library is overdue. But this library feels unnecessarily extravagant and loses the main function in all the excess.
Supported a comment by David Klinger on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
David Klinger
The new design respects neither the Greenbelt not the Boise River. Its massive, overbearing face overwhelms, rather than complements, its southerly riverfront. A south-facing, four-story glass walled-atrium is setting up a huge temperature control problem — in summer, that facade will be broiling (something that most Boiseans understand, but that maybe Massachusetts architects don’t). A plate-glass, walled front opposite a river corridor heavily used by waterfowl and songbirds has the potential to become a “killing machine” for birds, especially considering how the new library’s rooftop gardens will further lure birds and set up the very real possibility of needless bird strikes, subjecting the City of Boise to possible violation of Federal and state wildlife laws when it is possible to re-orient the new structure to diminish or eliminate such a deficiency. Did the architect spend a morning sitting on the front lawn of “The Cabin” studying the heavy movement of geese, ducks, raptors, and songbirds between the river and Julia Davis Park? If so, he would have understood that plate glass facades are going to create problems.
The new design respects neither the Greenbelt not the Boise River. Its massive, overbearing face overwhelms, rather than complements, its southerly riverfront. A south-facing, four-story glass walled-atrium is setting up a huge temperature control problem — in summer, that facade will be broiling (something that most Boiseans understand, but that maybe Massachusetts architects don’t). A plate-glass, walled front opposite a river corridor heavily used by waterfowl and songbirds has the potential to become a “killing machine” for birds, especially considering how the new library’s rooftop gardens will further lure birds and set up the very real possibility of needless bird strikes, subjecting the City of Boise to possible violation of Federal and state wildlife laws when it is possible to re-orient the new structure to diminish or eliminate such a deficiency. Did the architect spend a morning sitting on the front lawn of “The Cabin” studying the heavy movement of geese, ducks, raptors, and songbirds between the river and Julia Davis Park? If so, he would have understood that plate glass facades are going to create problems.
Supported a comment by Scott K. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Scott K.
I'd like to see a "going back to basics" approach to the library. We should ask ourselves is this a library that we're building, or a building complex that happens to incorporate two separate buildings that may or may not be necessary? It's a completely different situation when say a private developer like Gardner builds a facility that incorporates public elements like a transit center. When a city takes the lead, questions arise as to whether this is the most cost effective way to attain a goal. Do we need another event center given existing and planned venues? Does the Boise Arts and History department need its own building? Don't get me wrong I support culture, the arts, history, as well as, libraries, but I would be hesitant to help support and fund a complex that seems more than the simple task of modernizing a place to do research and find research materials and archives.
I'd like to see a "going back to basics" approach to the library. We should ask ourselves is this a library that we're building, or a building complex that happens to incorporate two separate buildings that may or may not be necessary? It's a completely different situation when say a private developer like Gardner builds a facility that incorporates public elements like a transit center. When a city takes the lead, questions arise as to whether this is the most cost effective way to attain a goal. Do we need another event center given existing and planned venues? Does the Boise Arts and History department need its own building? Don't get me wrong I support culture, the arts, history, as well as, libraries, but I would be hesitant to help support and fund a complex that seems more than the simple task of modernizing a place to do research and find research materials and archives.
Supported a comment by Paula Benson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Paula Benson
Is it true that you won't be able to "browse" books? All the books are mechanically brought out to you only upon request? I've heard this but it seems contrary to the whole point of the library which is to roam among books, look for and discover new books and resources, and enjoying the process as well as the reading. Will all our looking be done online?
Is it true that you won't be able to "browse" books? All the books are mechanically brought out to you only upon request? I've heard this but it seems contrary to the whole point of the library which is to roam among books, look for and discover new books and resources, and enjoying the process as well as the reading. Will all our looking be done online?
Supported a comment by Pam Brewer on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Pam Brewer
A number if items are not included in the architectural costs, which is already way over budget. How does city plan on paying for this?
A number if items are not included in the architectural costs, which is already way over budget. How does city plan on paying for this?
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
I would like to see a detailed breakdown of the $85 million proposed budget including how much has already been spent on the project; costs of renovation versus demolition; full disclosure of the architectural services selection process including financials; and transparent and complete breakdown of funding (including clarification of the $46.8 million from Tax Support and $22.2 million from Partnerships/Donations listed on p. 187 of the FY2019 City Budget). In the concept presentation to City Council in December 2017, a line item of $4.1 million for renovation of the existing warehouse was included as part of an overall proposed budget of $63.7 million that included $10.5 million for a parking garage and $10.7 million for event space & equipment. Nothing was mentioned about The Cabin at that point. How did that jump to complete demolition and an $80-85 million budget plus a separately funded parking garage?
I would like to see a detailed breakdown of the $85 million proposed budget including how much has already been spent on the project; costs of renovation versus demolition; full disclosure of the architectural services selection process including financials; and transparent and complete breakdown of funding (including clarification of the $46.8 million from Tax Support and $22.2 million from Partnerships/Donations listed on p. 187 of the FY2019 City Budget). In the concept presentation to City Council in December 2017, a line item of $4.1 million for renovation of the existing warehouse was included as part of an overall proposed budget of $63.7 million that included $10.5 million for a parking garage and $10.7 million for event space & equipment. Nothing was mentioned about The Cabin at that point. How did that jump to complete demolition and an $80-85 million budget plus a separately funded parking garage?
Supported a comment by J Crowe on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
J Crowe
this building is beautiful but can but can Boise/Boise citizens afford it? On top of the current projected costs, has the city considered the cost of affordable parking for citizens? Has the city considered projected maintenance/utility costs for a south facing wall of windows in our desert climate? And has the City considered the cost of moving the Cabin which is all about the history of our community?
this building is beautiful but can but can Boise/Boise citizens afford it? On top of the current projected costs, has the city considered the cost of affordable parking for citizens? Has the city considered projected maintenance/utility costs for a south facing wall of windows in our desert climate? And has the City considered the cost of moving the Cabin which is all about the history of our community?
Supported a comment by Thomas J Beatty on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Thomas J Beatty
I think an on-site parking option was prematurely dismissed, and would strongly suggest that the City go back to the designer with this requirement. You might also want to suggest that the re-done design be more in keeping with the surrounding buildings and museums. While the current proposal is nice to look at, that feeling will wear off fast. Surely building onto the current structure would be more practical - and even less costly.
I think an on-site parking option was prematurely dismissed, and would strongly suggest that the City go back to the designer with this requirement. You might also want to suggest that the re-done design be more in keeping with the surrounding buildings and museums. While the current proposal is nice to look at, that feeling will wear off fast. Surely building onto the current structure would be more practical - and even less costly.
Supported a comment by Gwynne McElhinney on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Gwynne McElhinney
I agree with the other comments re: access & safety that have been made. Even with an elevated walkway, I'm concerned that a parking garage across River Street will create gridlock between Capitol Blvd. & 9th Street. You'll have to put in a traffic light on 8th which will mean very few cars can turn west on River in any one cycle without backing up traffic on Capitol. This will be especially true when special events are held at BSU (concerts/games) or in Julia Davis Park (e.g., Art in the Park). Cars entering & exiting the garage (whether on 8th or River) will further congest an already busy intersection. The new library, as proposed, creates so many challenges to our community. I hope it's not too late to re-evaluate what the architect has offered. Can't we go back to the drawing board and design a building that better meets the need of Boiseans now and in the future?
I agree with the other comments re: access & safety that have been made. Even with an elevated walkway, I'm concerned that a parking garage across River Street will create gridlock between Capitol Blvd. & 9th Street. You'll have to put in a traffic light on 8th which will mean very few cars can turn west on River in any one cycle without backing up traffic on Capitol. This will be especially true when special events are held at BSU (concerts/games) or in Julia Davis Park (e.g., Art in the Park). Cars entering & exiting the garage (whether on 8th or River) will further congest an already busy intersection. The new library, as proposed, creates so many challenges to our community. I hope it's not too late to re-evaluate what the architect has offered. Can't we go back to the drawing board and design a building that better meets the need of Boiseans now and in the future?
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
Have permanent parking next to our beautiful Anne Frank Memorial does not sound like an aesthetically appropriate location. And what about this Biomark Building. Isn't that on City property? Why was it leased long term when the library scheme has been in the works for so long?
Have permanent parking next to our beautiful Anne Frank Memorial does not sound like an aesthetically appropriate location. And what about this Biomark Building. Isn't that on City property? Why was it leased long term when the library scheme has been in the works for so long?
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lynette Daudt
I do go now, often, precisely because I can pull into the parking lot, run in, and leave all without crossing a street.
I do go now, often, precisely because I can pull into the parking lot, run in, and leave all without crossing a street.
Supported a comment by Mary Wallace Dragone on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Mary Wallace Dragone
The entire thing is cost prohibitive.
The entire thing is cost prohibitive.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lynette Daudt
A parking garage is unpleasant to use. Adequate local site parking as is now available needs to be continued. I WOULD NOT go much if I had to use a parking garage even a block walk away.
A parking garage is unpleasant to use. Adequate local site parking as is now available needs to be continued. I WOULD NOT go much if I had to use a parking garage even a block walk away.
Supported a comment by M. Thomas on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
M. Thomas
The 40-50 spaces look to be in the SW corner between Anne Frank Memoral and the Biomark building
The 40-50 spaces look to be in the SW corner between Anne Frank Memoral and the Biomark building
Supported a comment by Sharon Tabor on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Sharon Tabor
What will the parking cost? $7 /hr like downtown garage now charge?
What will the parking cost? $7 /hr like downtown garage now charge?
Supported a comment by Lora Volkert on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lora Volkert
These parking options sound workable for people like me, but are the 40-50 on-site spaces going to be close enough for patrons who need wheelchair access or otherwise have limited mobility?
These parking options sound workable for people like me, but are the 40-50 on-site spaces going to be close enough for patrons who need wheelchair access or otherwise have limited mobility?
Supported a comment by Scott K. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Scott K.
First of all, we are not Salt Lake City, nor should we try to be. There is a lot of wasted space and a lot of concrete in the proposed designs. I'm not sure I would travel by foot, car or bike to a building that doesn't fit in well with its surrounding environment and seems to wall itself off from what makes Boise so nice - 8th street, the river, and views of the Statehouse, Depot, and Foothills.
First of all, we are not Salt Lake City, nor should we try to be. There is a lot of wasted space and a lot of concrete in the proposed designs. I'm not sure I would travel by foot, car or bike to a building that doesn't fit in well with its surrounding environment and seems to wall itself off from what makes Boise so nice - 8th street, the river, and views of the Statehouse, Depot, and Foothills.
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
Can you imagine how hot that concrete plaza would be in our routine 90+ degree days?
Can you imagine how hot that concrete plaza would be in our routine 90+ degree days?
Supported a comment by Kay Hummel on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Kay Hummel
Please redesign the site plan with more simplicity to meet customers’ true needs. Substantially downsize the northern entrance plaza along River Street and move the building north. A smaller plaza would allow retention of The Cabin, which plays a vital role in the cultural district. The proposed 20,000 sq.ft. outdoor plaza is not useable at least 7 months of the year, whereas other Library functions are needed year-round. There is adequate green space with the 2 rooftop outdoor gardens and other open space indicated on the west side. While the design is initially exciting, I urge reconsideration of truly necessary library functions vs. some community “priorities” listed. For example, a “connection with the River” does not merit top priority when there is abundant access to the Boise River at many nearby locations. Our Library’s two highest functions are library services and space for the Arts and History Dept. Focus on these functions, and proper design will follow. Likewise, I am unclear on the necessity for ‘maker spaces.’ Given the under utilization of Jump’s maker spaces, this is a head scratcher. Adequate parking and auditorium space are the next highest functions that must be designed for, again more vital year-round than a cement-clad plaza (which also will be too hot in two summer months, essentially a baking, reflecting desert). Citizens are not excited about paying for more outdoor gathering spaces when the Downtown core provides ample outdoor sites nearby – Julia Davis, Ann Morrison, the Grove Plaza, and Jump.
Please redesign the site plan with more simplicity to meet customers’ true needs. Substantially downsize the northern entrance plaza along River Street and move the building north. A smaller plaza would allow retention of The Cabin, which plays a vital role in the cultural district. The proposed 20,000 sq.ft. outdoor plaza is not useable at least 7 months of the year, whereas other Library functions are needed year-round. There is adequate green space with the 2 rooftop outdoor gardens and other open space indicated on the west side. While the design is initially exciting, I urge reconsideration of truly necessary library functions vs. some community “priorities” listed. For example, a “connection with the River” does not merit top priority when there is abundant access to the Boise River at many nearby locations. Our Library’s two highest functions are library services and space for the Arts and History Dept. Focus on these functions, and proper design will follow. Likewise, I am unclear on the necessity for ‘maker spaces.’ Given the under utilization of Jump’s maker spaces, this is a head scratcher. Adequate parking and auditorium space are the next highest functions that must be designed for, again more vital year-round than a cement-clad plaza (which also will be too hot in two summer months, essentially a baking, reflecting desert). Citizens are not excited about paying for more outdoor gathering spaces when the Downtown core provides ample outdoor sites nearby – Julia Davis, Ann Morrison, the Grove Plaza, and Jump.
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Christine King
Thank you for reminding us of the hazard glass poses to birds. I thought that southern glass wall would possibly cause blinding glare to drivers, didn't think about birds!
Thank you for reminding us of the hazard glass poses to birds. I thought that southern glass wall would possibly cause blinding glare to drivers, didn't think about birds!
Supported a comment by Chryssa Rich on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Chryssa Rich
No, I think the wall of windows will kill too many birds.
No, I think the wall of windows will kill too many birds.
Supported a comment by April LOrange on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
April LOrange
I second Lynette. My husband worked in an all-glass building for years. 20° F difference between the sunny side and the shady side, and no HVAC system could fix it.
I second Lynette. My husband worked in an all-glass building for years. 20° F difference between the sunny side and the shady side, and no HVAC system could fix it.
Supported a comment by Lynette Daudt on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Lynette Daudt
Mitigate = make less severe, serious, or painful. How about a non-all glass design. This is not appropriate design in a century moving toward sustainability. Insulate with thick solid walls. Use solar panels on the roof. Have large windows but not walls of glass.
Mitigate = make less severe, serious, or painful. How about a non-all glass design. This is not appropriate design in a century moving toward sustainability. Insulate with thick solid walls. Use solar panels on the roof. Have large windows but not walls of glass.
Supported a comment by Brooke O. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Brooke O.
absolutely not. it looks like JUMP or the EMP in Seattle. it is not complimentary
absolutely not. it looks like JUMP or the EMP in Seattle. it is not complimentary
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Christine King
Oh, I so agree! I really hope The Cabin stays put, but I don't think City Hall considered either the structure or the literary center's future when they contracted with the architectural team.
Oh, I so agree! I really hope The Cabin stays put, but I don't think City Hall considered either the structure or the literary center's future when they contracted with the architectural team.
Supported a comment by Pamela B. on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Pamela B.
While moving The Cabin would be better than not saving it at all by moving to a new site it may lose some of it's historical value. Plus, this can jeopardize the building’s placement on the National Historic Register. Since the only thing going into that space is a plaza I don't understand why The Cabin can't just stay in it's original historical location.
While moving The Cabin would be better than not saving it at all by moving to a new site it may lose some of it's historical value. Plus, this can jeopardize the building’s placement on the National Historic Register. Since the only thing going into that space is a plaza I don't understand why The Cabin can't just stay in it's original historical location.
Supported a comment by Christine King on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Christine King
When you write you are in favor of moving The Cabin, you mention students would maintain access, but I have not read any commitment from the city the intention to relocate the cabin as The Cabin, that will be very expensive. The official comment here is quite vague.
When you write you are in favor of moving The Cabin, you mention students would maintain access, but I have not read any commitment from the city the intention to relocate the cabin as The Cabin, that will be very expensive. The official comment here is quite vague.
Supported a comment by Carole Whiteleather on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Carole Whiteleather
Forgot to explain my reasons regarding The Cabin. As the former Director of Education for The Cabin, I must stress the importance of the location for one of the most dynamic programs, Summer Writing Camps. Students need the access to nature, the museums, zoo and downtown for the various writing assignments and camps in which they participate. When we re-designed the camps from a small three week window to a full summer of offerings, many more students have enjoyed this opportunity. Moving The Cabin could be detrimental to this wonderful experience for kids. Thank you for your consideration of my comments.
Forgot to explain my reasons regarding The Cabin. As the former Director of Education for The Cabin, I must stress the importance of the location for one of the most dynamic programs, Summer Writing Camps. Students need the access to nature, the museums, zoo and downtown for the various writing assignments and camps in which they participate. When we re-designed the camps from a small three week window to a full summer of offerings, many more students have enjoyed this opportunity. Moving The Cabin could be detrimental to this wonderful experience for kids. Thank you for your consideration of my comments.
Supported a comment by Jeff Fereday on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Jeff Fereday
It would be unfortunate to remove The Cabin from its current site. This 1930s-era building is part of the visitor's welcome to the City on Capitol Blvd, and is an icon for the locals. Its log construction echoes the Capitol Building itself, with its log motif at its base. It announces Boise's concern for history, and for our frontier roots. Joint Library-Cabin programming obviously would be aided by leaving it in place. It does not significantly impair the view of the river and instead anchors a point in Idaho's past and in Boise's commitment to literacy. Again, a highly compatible purpose. Please leave The Cabin in place. The City has undermined meaningful public input by failing to include The Cabin in any rendering or as an option in the model. The new building should celebrate, not simply discard, this venerable building. Both parking and Cabin preservation could be enhanced by shrinking the proposed library plaza on the north and perhaps rotating the building clockwise (or slightly re-designing it) so as to create more parking space to the south of the BioMark building and more setback for The Cabin. I recognize that an off-site parking garage probably will be necessary, but I urge the City to plan for public transit in and out of this area and consider that option in this design. The new library should invite, not stand as a barrier to, mass transit in the Boise area.
It would be unfortunate to remove The Cabin from its current site. This 1930s-era building is part of the visitor's welcome to the City on Capitol Blvd, and is an icon for the locals. Its log construction echoes the Capitol Building itself, with its log motif at its base. It announces Boise's concern for history, and for our frontier roots. Joint Library-Cabin programming obviously would be aided by leaving it in place. It does not significantly impair the view of the river and instead anchors a point in Idaho's past and in Boise's commitment to literacy. Again, a highly compatible purpose. Please leave The Cabin in place. The City has undermined meaningful public input by failing to include The Cabin in any rendering or as an option in the model. The new building should celebrate, not simply discard, this venerable building. Both parking and Cabin preservation could be enhanced by shrinking the proposed library plaza on the north and perhaps rotating the building clockwise (or slightly re-designing it) so as to create more parking space to the south of the BioMark building and more setback for The Cabin. I recognize that an off-site parking garage probably will be necessary, but I urge the City to plan for public transit in and out of this area and consider that option in this design. The new library should invite, not stand as a barrier to, mass transit in the Boise area.
Supported a comment by Paula Benson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Paula Benson
The cabin was built as the Forester's Office and its site was specifically chosen because proximity to the river and the trees both reflect the timber history of the State of Idaho. Its location is germane to its original purpose and to its history. The Cabin Writer's Center has programs all over the city and could use another building if it needed to but the the cabin itself would be forever changed if it was moved to another site.
The cabin was built as the Forester's Office and its site was specifically chosen because proximity to the river and the trees both reflect the timber history of the State of Idaho. Its location is germane to its original purpose and to its history. The Cabin Writer's Center has programs all over the city and could use another building if it needed to but the the cabin itself would be forever changed if it was moved to another site.
Supported a comment by Nicole Patterson on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Nicole Patterson
As a historic landmark, the Cabin needs to be near the heart of historic Boise. It doesn't work in a new development. Even the big, old trees surrounding the Cabin pay tribute to Boise's past. And what could be better than the mile between the train depot and the Capitol?
The Cabin also needs to be near Boise's cultural landmarks--BAM, the Anne Frank Memorial, Ann Morrison Park, the river and more. Have you ever attended a Cabin program? The kids write in the Cabin but also venture out into nearby blocks for inspiration; they visit JUMP, BAM, the park, the Library! and more. They leverage the close proximity to the diversity of spaces for learning and inspiration. And it's neat to see kids WALKING around and exploring Boise. It wouldn't be right (write?) to board a bus at Cabin camp to visit downtown (and it would increase costs).
Finally, there is something appropriate about the Cabin being on the same site as the library. Cabin writers see the library when they visit (maybe even get trapped in the overcrowded parking lot!). The Library could be the future home for their creations, a place where written words are free and accessible to everyone. Library patrons also see the Cabin--a place where all are welcome to write, to share their stories. The Library! and the Cabin have complementary visions and purposes, and each is better in close proximity to the other.
Do any other Cabin sites meet these criteria?
As a historic landmark, the Cabin needs to be near the heart of historic Boise. It doesn't work in a new development. Even the big, old trees surrounding the Cabin pay tribute to Boise's past. And what could be better than the mile between the train depot and the Capitol?
The Cabin also needs to be near Boise's cultural landmarks--BAM, the Anne Frank Memorial, Ann Morrison Park, the river and more. Have you ever attended a Cabin program? The kids write in the Cabin but also venture out into nearby blocks for inspiration; they visit JUMP, BAM, the park, the Library! and more. They leverage the close proximity to the diversity of spaces for learning and inspiration. And it's neat to see kids WALKING around and exploring Boise. It wouldn't be right (write?) to board a bus at Cabin camp to visit downtown (and it would increase costs).
Finally, there is something appropriate about the Cabin being on the same site as the library. Cabin writers see the library when they visit (maybe even get trapped in the overcrowded parking lot!). The Library could be the future home for their creations, a place where written words are free and accessible to everyone. Library patrons also see the Cabin--a place where all are welcome to write, to share their stories. The Library! and the Cabin have complementary visions and purposes, and each is better in close proximity to the other.
Do any other Cabin sites meet these criteria?
Supported a comment by Diane Plastino Graves on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Diane Plastino Graves
What the cabin is and where it is is the same thing. It is not an issue of moving the nonprofit The Cabin. But moving the cabin building itself, which was built by the CCC on that spot in 1939., would be a tragedy. It would be like moving the Boise Depot to west Boise, or the Statue of Liberty to New Jersey. It is at home in that spot, and has been for 7 decades. We need these special places to remain untouched, so that Boise has representations of all its history, intact. https://www.idahostatesman.com/opinion/readers-opinion/article214439969.html
What the cabin is and where it is is the same thing. It is not an issue of moving the nonprofit The Cabin. But moving the cabin building itself, which was built by the CCC on that spot in 1939., would be a tragedy. It would be like moving the Boise Depot to west Boise, or the Statue of Liberty to New Jersey. It is at home in that spot, and has been for 7 decades. We need these special places to remain untouched, so that Boise has representations of all its history, intact. https://www.idahostatesman.com/opinion/readers-opinion/article214439969.html
Supported a comment by Mary Wallace Dragone on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Mary Wallace Dragone
Another cost issue is that the cabin was just brought up to ADA standards to the tune of many thousands of tax dollars.....why destroy or move it? I am for historic preservation....I can't believe we are not just updating or adding on to the current library.....
Another cost issue is that the cabin was just brought up to ADA standards to the tune of many thousands of tax dollars.....why destroy or move it? I am for historic preservation....I can't believe we are not just updating or adding on to the current library.....
Supported a comment by Mary Wallace Dragone on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Mary Wallace Dragone
It is just too big....it seems cost prohibitive to maintain....how much will maintenance cost on a building that size? I read the original study from 2014 and the original cost was 45 million....now it is 85mil....how high will it go? We have performance space in Boise ...there are already public meeting rooms in the library and I am probably not going to be thrilled to use the automated retrieval system, aesthetically unpleasing to me, but I am a book person.....
It is just too big....it seems cost prohibitive to maintain....how much will maintenance cost on a building that size? I read the original study from 2014 and the original cost was 45 million....now it is 85mil....how high will it go? We have performance space in Boise ...there are already public meeting rooms in the library and I am probably not going to be thrilled to use the automated retrieval system, aesthetically unpleasing to me, but I am a book person.....
Supported a comment by Jerry Brady on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Jerry Brady
Go Kathy and Diane Plastino Graves, above! The problem here is The Cabin is plain and unassuming while the great architect's library is expected to be not just a place for readers and learners but a shining icon of a growing city. I've not seen the library's design, although I'm excited about what's ahead. But preserving The Cabin in it's place, unpretentious and ordinary as it is, would be precisely the point: we haven't outgrown ourselves and gotten too big for our heritage.
Go Kathy and Diane Plastino Graves, above! The problem here is The Cabin is plain and unassuming while the great architect's library is expected to be not just a place for readers and learners but a shining icon of a growing city. I've not seen the library's design, although I'm excited about what's ahead. But preserving The Cabin in it's place, unpretentious and ordinary as it is, would be precisely the point: we haven't outgrown ourselves and gotten too big for our heritage.
Supported a comment by Kathy Kustra on
Main Library Campus
1 year, 8 months ago
Kathy Kustra
I'm greatly disappointed you didn't figure out a way to incorporate The Cabin in its original location into this design or campus. This new building should not forget our history.
I'm greatly disappointed you didn't figure out a way to incorporate The Cabin in its original location into this design or campus. This new building should not forget our history.
Followed Main Library Campus
1 year, 12 months ago
Commented on Main Library Campus
1 year, 12 months ago
It is completely out of line of what Boise is. Why are you so determined to destroy what Boise is a great historic town yes I know I said town. It is an ostentatious representation of what we are not. It is ridiculous to think that in this time of digital media and that includes books, that this is a necessity to be built it is not it is not necessary. I love the warehouse it is inviting it is quite lovely and it fits in with what we have if you were to incorporate the warehouse into your elaborate Crazy Design Define perhaps. Too much to be done away with too much debris too much construction it's just too much. Why not trying to fix the things that we already have went up jump some money and do Julia Davis Park and give us back our open space how about that. Why don't you just take out that Art Museum and give us that open space back in exchange for the space you're going to steal from us over there.