Amped Electric of Idaho

07/08/2025

Roadwork is slated to begin on a busy stretch of Idaho highway this week.

Beginning Wednesday, crews will work to chipseal a 28-mile stretch of highway on State Highway 55, a news release from the Idaho Transportation Department said.

Crews will begin work near milepost 91, about 12 miles north of Banks, and will move south to Horseshoe Bend. The work is expected to be completed in early August.

Work will take place Monday-Thursday from 6 a.m.-9 p.m., and Fridays from 6 a.m.-12 p.m. All lanes will be open outside of work hours and on weekends.

The work zone will be reduced to a single lane and motorists can expect delays of up to thirty minutes. Speeds may be reduced and there may be a width restriction of twelve feet, the release said.

The release notes that this is one of several roadwork projects in progress on Highway 55. Learn more at ITD’s website.

05/06/2025

It turns out Micron’s highly anticipated new fab won’t come property tax-free after all.

In 2008, the Idaho State Legislature passed a set of tax breaks meant to lure French nuclear company Areva Inc. to build a uranium enrichment facility near Idaho Falls to add jobs during the Great Recession. The law said if any company invests at least $1 billion into Idaho within seven years, the state would cap its property tax value at $400 million permanently. Areva never came, but in 2011 Micron cleared the threshold and locked in the tax break for its Boise operation.

This cap means Micron has been paying property taxes on a fraction of the value of its facility, which was valued at $1.86 billion in 2019. Without any exemption at all, the facility’s former footprint would have paid $20.32 million in property taxes in 2020. The company paid $3.4 million of property taxes in 2024. Micron’s tax exemption is the largest in Ada County.This means that if a property tax user, like Micron, suddenly has a property that is twice as valuable, the company will bear more of the tax burden, shifting it away from other residential or commercial payers.

Put another way, a taxpayer with a $350,000 home in the City of Boise paid the city $1,880.85 in property taxes in 2020. If Micron had paid the taxes on its entire property value then, the same homeowner would have paid $54.18 less.

“As with all property tax exemptions in Idaho, it’s important to keep in mind that we operate under a budget-driven model,” Assessor Arnold told BoiseDev. “This means that when an exemption is granted, it doesn’t reduce the total amount of taxes collected—it simply shifts that tax burden to other parcels within the same taxing district.”

05/05/2025

The Bruneau Canyon Overlook is the only accessible spot to take in breathtaking views of the canyon and the Bruneau River.

“The river begins at the confluence of the Jarbidge River and the West Fork Bruneau River, and in the dense wilderness, plateaus are divided by staggering, meandering river canyons,” Visit Idaho’s website notes. “Hike here and you’ll likely see bighorn sheep, deer, cougars, coyotes, bobcats, and river otters.”

The canyon is about 800-1000 feet deep in some places and about 1,300 feet wide at the overlook. The canyon walls are made up of basalt and rhyolite layers and sagebrush.

“Unlike many public lands in Idaho, the Bruneau River Canyon sees fewer travelers. Sparse, unpaved roads and a lack of major attractions keep visitors away,” The Idaho’s Mammoth Cave website notes. “That isolation means those who make the trip often enjoy a sense of true solitude.”

The overlook is the only part of the canyon that is accessible by road. For detailed directions on how to get to the Bruneau Canyon Overlook, click here.

(The Bruneau River Canyon offers scenic views of the Bruneau River. Photo: Bureau of Land Management via Wikimedia Commons.)

04/30/2025

Don Day writes: Each year, the Community Planning Association of SW Idaho, which calls itself COMPASS, estimates how many people live in each corner of Ada and Canyon Counties. It gives a granular look at changes in population from year to year across the area.

Would you be surprised to learn that our area is growing?

COMPASS uses Census data, which is released every ten years, and applies a formula on top that includes building permits, household sizes, vacancy rates, and annexations. The updates are released each April.

COMPASS uses this report to not only estimate population growth but also see how residents are distributed across the cities and counties.

The latest figures estimate 847,840 people live in the two counties – that’s a three percent increase from 2024 numbers. COMPASS indicates that each city or unincorporated area either saw growth or, in a couple of cases, stayed flat.

Boise leads the way with 253,550 residents, a 1.4% increase from the previous year.
Meridian is the second-largest city, with 147,340 people, and a growth rate of 3.1% from last year.
The fastest-growing area was Star, which, between its Ada and Canyon County parts, now has 23,370 residents, a 9.8% increase from just a year ago.
Since the 2020 Census, COMPASS estimates the counties have grown more than 14%, adding 121,768 people. That’s the equivalent of adding an extra Nampa in just five years.

One more stat for the watercooler. In the year 2000, 432,345 people lived in Ada or Canyon Counties. In the last 25 years, the population has increased by 415,495 people. That means since the turn of the century, the number of people living in our area has almost doubled.

Click here to for more info about the population changes.

04/07/2025

Its that time of year to get out fishing!
In the link below is a list of areas Fish and Game is stocking with trout.

Fish and Game staff will be stocking nearly 28,000 catchable-size (10 to 12 inch) trout throughout the Southwest Region in April.

04/03/2025

Here in the Treasure Valley, we are fortunate to have many markets that allow local farmers and makers to sell their goods directly to the public. The goods at many local markets are diverse, from vegetables and produce to pastries and bread to handmade art. Markets are a great way to shop local and small, and they’re also a fun activity for the entire family.

Below is a list of markets from across the Treasure Valley that our intern, Blake Pascal, compiled. Some are kicking off in April, and others in May.

If you know of a market that isn’t on this list, email me at [email protected] and we’ll add it.

Opening in April
Boise Farmers Market

Boise Farmers Market is a food-centric market focused on Idaho’s agriculture. It features 95% food items and 5% non-food items for people to browse and learn where the food and goods they purchase come from. The market only features items from a 100-mile radius and operates rain or shine.

April 5 – October, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
1500 Shoreline Dr Boise, ID
Capital City Public Market

Capital City Public Market offers fresh farmers market items, a chance to meet local vendors, and an opportunity to shop small, experience live music, and eat fresh.

Every Saturday, April 19 – December 20, 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Starting October 25th, hours change to 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
422 S 11th Street, on the corner of 11th and Myrtle, Boise.
Gem State 208 Market

Gem State 208 Market is a monthly market that takes place on the second Saturday of every month in Kuna. Each market will feature up to 50 vendors and a raffle, with proceeds going to local causes.

Second Saturday of the Month, starting April 12 – October, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Farm Estates Park, 1450 N. Massey Ave., Kuna, ID
Meridian Main Street Market

Meridian Main Street Market offers more than homemade and authentic goods for people to purchase; it also offers entrepreneurial opportunities to local youth. The market has an electric vibe and features handmade crafts, clothing, live entertainment, and homemade treats. This market kicks off on Saturday, April 12.

Every Saturday, starting April 12 – October, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
33 E Broadway Ave, Meridian, ID
Nampa Farmers Market

Nampa Farmers Market is a family-friendly environment where people can enjoy fresh produce, handmade art and crafts, and more.

Soft opening on Saturday, April 5; Every Saturday, April 19 – November, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lloyd Square Park at 13th Ave and Front St, Nampa, ID
South Meridian Market

The SO|ME Market features goods from local farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses, along with live music. This bi-monthly market takes place at Brighton’s Pinnacle development in South Meridian, and will kick off April 9.

Every second and fourth Wednesday evening, April – October, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
1375 E Phenomenal St, Meridian, ID 83642
Opening in May
208 Night Market

208 Night Market will kick off its second year on May 17 at the Hispanic Cultural Center of Idaho in Nampa. Every Friday evening, there will be a variety of Hispanic food vendors, music, and more.

Every Friday evening, May 17 through September, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Hispanic Cultural Center of Idaho – 315 Stampede Dr, Nampa, ID 83687
Caldwell Farmers Market: Indian Creek

The Caldwell Farmers Market features farm-fresh produce and food from local farmers and families. You can enjoy fresh veggies, fruits, and gifts from local crafters and food producers. Live music performances will also be held during operating hours.

Every Tuesday, May – September, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
120 S Kimball Ave, Caldwell, ID
Eagle Saturday Market

The Eagle Saturday Market features over 60 vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handmade goods. This Market is inspired by the “American Dream” and has a nostalgic vibe. Live music and a food court will operate during open hours.

Every Saturday, May – October, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Heritage Park, 185 E State St, Eagle, ID

04/02/2025

This Saturday is expected to be 60 degrees and sunny — perfect weather for the opening day of the Boise Farmers Market!

The BMF kicks off at 9 a.m. at 1500 Shoreline Drive and goes until 1 p.m.

A news release for the market says that this opening day will be the biggest yet, with more than 75 vendors selling locally-raised meats, fresh produce, artisan breads, dairy products, and specialty foods.

Coffee vendors and food trucks will also be on site, providing fuel for your shopping trip.

“When you shop here, you’re not just buying groceries,” said BFM Executive Director Amber Beierle. ”You’re reducing the miles your food travels and eating produce harvested at its peak flavor and nutrition. And you can talk to the people who put so much care into what you eat.”

This will be the BFM’s 13th year. It will run every Saturday into October.

The Nampa Farmer’s Market is having a soft opening this Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lloyd Square Park. The Grand Opening is scheduled for Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the same time and location.

Subscribers to our Eats newsletter can look forward to a complete list/guide to all local farmers’ markets in this Thursday’s newsletter.

04/01/2025

Simplot Family to turn iconic hill into new park

Sydney Kidd writes: Simplot Hill may soon become a park open to the public.

The iconic landmark, comprised of 200 acres along North Cartwright Rd. and North Bogus Basin Rd. has sat largely empty since 2016. Now, the Simplot family said in a news release, they hope to turn it into Jack’s Park.

“The hill has always attracted Boise’s kids,” Scott Simplot said. Scott Simplot is part of the planning team spearheading the project. “For years, families have used the slope for ice blocking and sunset watching. We want to keep what people already love, and give them just a little bit more.”

J.R. Simplot lived in a prominent home on the “green foothill” for decades.

In 2004, Simplot and his wife Esther donated the home and 36 acres of land to the State of Idaho, earmarking it as the future governor’s mansion under then-Gov. Dirk Kempthorne. Kempthorne left office in 2006, and after a short interim stint by James Risch, C.L. Butch Otter was elected governor.

Otter was a former J.R. Simplot Company executive, and was previously married to J.R.’s daughter Gay. He declined to live in the home.

In 2013, the State of Idaho returned the property to the Simplot family, citing the cost of ongoing maintenance of the empty home and property. In 2016, the family tore the hilltop home down.

The new park would be built out in phases with new trails, structures, and landscaping coming together over the next 10-15 years. According to the release, phase one would have an interactive Tractor Shed museum and tinkering space, entry drive improvements, a tiered outdoor picnic area, and water features.

Future phases would include a hilltop pavilion at the crest of Simplot Hill which would offer panoramic views, a grand staircase, winding paths and secret ponds, and an outdoor “kids’ zone.”

“We noticed that people naturally find their place here on the slope as they take in the views. We want to encourage that,” Scott Simplot said.

The Simplot Family has a track record of creating spaces open to the public, like its Jack’s Urban Meeting Place in Downtown Boise.

Construction costs for Jack’s Park will be paid for by the Simplot Family Foundation, which will also retain ownership of the land and be responsible for its upkeep and maintenance

03/17/2025

We begin with details on affordable spring break activities to keep the kids busy.

Today: 50°🌧 Rainy.

First Up Today
Cheap spring break activities

“I’m bored!” — A statement parents probably don’t want to hear this week while school is out.

We rounded up some inexpensive activities to keep the kids busy and the fun going during spring break.

🎳Cheap Bowling: Emerald Lanes in Boise charges $4.75 per person per game or $30 per lane per hour Monday through Thursday. There’s also an arcade, billiards, and a pizza cafe.
🛼Skating Specials: Treasure Valley Skate has a spring break special of $7 admission on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday this week from 1-4 p.m. Monday’s $7 admission includes a skate rental, the other days mentioned it’s $4 for a skate rental. More on that here.
🏺Pottery Painting: Paint a piece of pottery at Ceramica in Boise. Most pieces are between $20-$30 but some are cheaper or more expensive. There is no added charge for painting and firing. Call (208) 342-3822 to make a reservation.
🧵Crafting: Michael’s has a Kids Club Spring Break playlist on YouTube where each class shows kids how to make a craft and the needed materials, which can be purchased at Michael’s beforehand and are cheap.
🕹Wahooz Special: This Tuesday and Thursday only, Wahooz in Meridian is offering all-day, unlimited access to Ropes Course, Clip ‘n Climb, Ballocity, Twister Ride, Frog Hopper, Bumper Cars, Laser Maze, XD Dark Ride, Laser Tag, Bowling and Free Play on Video Games for $35.
🪦Mystery Cemetery Tour: The Old Idaho Penitentiary is offering cemetery tours this week at a variety of times where participants can unlock the mysteries of the past! It’s $15 per person or two for $25. Reserve your spot.
🦓Zoo Boise: Admission at Zoo Boise is reduced on Thursdays — $9 for kids 3-11 and $10 for 12 and up.
🎣Fishing: Idaho Fish and Game is stocking thousands of trout in Treasure Valley ponds, lakes, and rivers this month. Kids can do this solo or in a group. A basic setup is inexpensive and kids 14 and under don’t need a license. Loaner equipment is also available at state parks. Learn more from F&G’s Learn to Fish page.

03/14/2025

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Hello Friday. Gretchen Parsons here for your end-of-week report.

American flags are being replaced on the Cloverdale Bridge after the current ones were vandalized. Plus, a heads up for downtown commuters.

Today: 47°🌤🌨 Mostly sunny then chance for rain/ snow mix.

First Up Today
American flags vandalized

St. Paddy’s Day roundup
Check out all that’s happening in the Treasure Valley below:

Boise St. Paddy’s Bar Crawl: Enjoy a block party and pub crawl with more than 15 participating bars, check-in at Hap Hap Lounge, and an after-party. Your wristband gets you welcome shots at select venues, drink and food specials, and more. Saturday, March 15 starting at 3:00 p.m. Discounted tickets $23.
Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl: This bar crawl in honor of St. Paddy’s Day starts at Cactus Bar, and you can choose your adventure from there. A ticket includes two to three drinks or shots, no cover at participating bars, food specials, an after party, and more. Group tickets $20 per person.
High Desert Harley St. Paddy’s Celebration: Head over to High Desert Harley-Davidson for a St. Paddy’s Day party with green beer, food trucks, giveaways, and more. Don’t forget to wear your green gear. Saturday, March 15, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Event details.
Crescent Brewery St. Paddy’s Day Party: If you’re looking for St. Paddy’s festivities in Canyon County, don’t miss Crescent Brewery’s shindig. It’s an all-day party that will feature Irish music, a corned beef and cabbage dinner, bagpipes, and more. Saturday, March 15, 12:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. More info.
Sockeye Alehouse: Stop by Sockeye Alehouse and Sockeye Brewing for Irish specials, including corned beef and cottage pie, as well as Sockeye Car Bombs and bagpipes, of course. Saturday, March 15, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Event details.
Payette Brewing: Payette Brewing is hosting a three-day shindig with green beer, Boise Highlander performances, Irish food, mini-games, and more. Saturday, March 15 – Monday, March 17. Details are here.
Celebrate The Green: The Village at Meridian will have Irish dancers, bagpipes, musical performances, and Lucky the Leprechaun on hand for pot of gold giveaways. Saturday, March 15 and Sunday, March 16 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Event schedule.
Green Glitter Beer: Loose Screw Beer Co. is celebrating St. Paddy’s Day weekend with its unique green glitter beer at both locations for only $5. Saturday, March 15 – Monday, March 17, while supplies last at both taprooms.
Quinns Four-Day Bash: Quinns is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day all weekend with bagpipe performances, Irish specials, green beer, special drinks, and more. It will be held from Friday, March 14, to Monday, March 17. Event info.
The Harp in Meridian: The Harp Irish Pub also has a four-day celebration with special events each day, including Jameson whiskey tasting, a Sunday Irish breakfast, bagpipes and drums, Irish dancing, and food specials. See schedule.
McCleary’s Locations: All three McCleary’s Pub locations have big parties planned with Guinness, bagpipers, and more. Details on McCleary’s Orchard Street location event, McCleary’s Pub State Street celebration, and McCleary’s Caldwell party.
Barbarian and Crisp Food Truck: Choose from green beer, Irish red, or Irish stout at Barbarian Brewing’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. Crisp Food Truck will also be there serving up corned beef and hash, along with some other specials. Sunday, March 16 and Monday, March 17. Details and menu.
Corned Beef on Monday: Several restaurants will serve corned beef and other Irish specialties on Monday, March 17, including: Kahootz Steak and Ale House, The Refuge Restaurant and Lounge, Rudy’s Pub & Grill, Sully’s in Star, and Tiner’s Alley.

03/13/2025

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