The eastern section of the former Les Bois Park in Boise, Idaho, is set to transform into a vibrant new green space along the Greenbelt, with construction already underway on the expansive 50-acre Park at Expo Idaho. The park is expected to open by 2026.

This project marks the initial phase of Ada County’s ambitious plan to revitalize the defunct horse racing track surrounding the Western Idaho Fairgrounds. Designed by the Philadelphia-based firm PORT and executed by CM Company, the first phase aims to create a variety of recreational opportunities. Meanwhile, proposals for a second phase include the establishment of a professional soccer stadium in collaboration with developer David Wali, Boise Pro Soccer CEO Brad Stith, and former U.S. Soccer vice president Bill Taylor, which is currently in the final stages of contract discussions.

The park’s design incorporates the natural floodplain adjacent to the Boise River, enhancing rather than obstructing its ecological richness. Visitors can look forward to more than three miles of winding trails, which will meander through a landscape shaped by ridges and valleys inspired by the area’s wetlands. These features will create small streams lined with cattails and other native flora, allowing wildlife and people alike to enjoy the serene environment. The topography will be designed to accommodate natural habitats, benefiting local fauna such as beavers and birds.

In preparation for park landscaping, Ada County has cultivated over $10 million worth of native plants across 15 nurseries in the region. “This is not just about planting grass,” Brown asserted during a recent site tour. “We’re looking to enhance the ecological environment and restore the site to its original condition.”

Additional amenities will include a 5-acre skate park designed by California Skateparks, renowned for designing the skate park for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The skate park will be harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings, promoting accessibility for cyclists and foot traffic.

Near the skate park, the county is also establishing a food truck park for local vendors, complete with seating for live music events, similar to the Green Acres Food Truck Park. A unique pavilion designed by Marlon Blackwell Architects will feature year-round shaded seating and restrooms. The pavilion will double as an art installation, designed to create unique shadow patterns as the sun rises, adding to its aesthetic appeal while fulfilling practical functions.

On the other end of the park, a large playground will cater to children of all ages, featuring a variety of play structures and equipment designed for climbing and sliding. The design includes an “adult-friendly” swing set that pays homage to the history of the former race track, along with a 64-foot zipline that accommodates both children and adults.

The Park at Expo Idaho promises to be a dynamic and inclusive space for the community.