BOISE — Longtime Boise resident Aaron Howell Wednesday announced the donation of a 16-acre parcel in southeast Boise, where city officials plan to develop a park to be named in honor of his wife.
Aaron and his wife, Sue, are native Idahoans who have lived in east Boise for the last twenty years. They founded Northwest Lineman College in 1993, which has since expanded to three additional states.
“I am so pleased that this gift will improve the quality of life for Boiseans for generations to come,” said Aaron Howell, President of Northwest Lineman College. “I can’t think of a better way to give back to the community and honor my wife in the process.”
City leaders say Sue Howell Park will be located on land currently owned by the Howells just off Warm Springs Avenue and Idaho Highway 21 in southeast Boise. The Howells purchased the property last year with the goal of creating a public park.
“This is an incredible gift from the Howell family,” said Boise Mayor David Bieter. “This new jewel in our park system will shine brightly, providing inspiring and enriching recreational opportunities for the people of Boise and beyond.”
Plans for the park are still in the works -- but the Howells hope to highlight important landmarks from across the state of Idaho in the park’s design. That way, visitors can learn more about the Gem State through interactive exhibits and displays, according to city officials.
A section of Greenbelt managed by Ada County runs along the new park’s south side, and access to the Boise River will be preserved for anglers who enjoy visiting the area.
Boise Parks and Recreation officials will work with the Howells to create a master plan for the park, should council approve the park donation. Community members will have the chance to provide feedback on the design and planned amenities throughout the master planning process.
The Boise City Council is scheduled to consider the donation at their regularly-scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18.
