RIVHAB awarded $1 million contract in exciting Expo Idaho development

RIVHAB will lead Boise River side channel construction as part of the 50-acre park project at Expo Idaho

BOISE, Idaho – The groundbreaking ceremony for The Park at Expo Idaho, a transformative public park set to replace the former Les Bois racetrack, recently took place at the iconic Expo Idaho property. RIVHAB, PLLC, an industry leader in aquatic and environmental construction, was awarded a key contract to help shape the future of this highly anticipated space.

Working under local construction company CM Company for Phase I of The Park at Expo Idaho, RIVHAB will be responsible for the implementation of side channel, wetland, riparian, and stream construction elements of the park, vital to enhancing the area's natural beauty and ecological health. The work will involve stream and wetland construction, log jam structures, and cobble-lined streams that will form part of the park's riverside walking paths.

Phase I will include the creation of nature trails, open spaces, and other recreational amenities, set against the backdrop of the Boise River. RIVHAB’s work will begin in Fall 2025 and is expected to be completed late 2026.

“Our team is thrilled to be a part of this exciting project, which will not only transform the area into a vibrant outdoor space but also enhance the health of the Boise River ecosystem. As a local native of Boise, I’ve seen this space used for many great events. I’m excited to be a part of making this vision a reality for our community” said Jeanne McFall, RIVHAB President and CEO.

With a project value exceeding $1 million, the awarded contract underscores RIVHAB's expertise in stream construction, fish habitat, and water management. RIVHAB’s work will create a healthy, connected side channel habitat along the Boise River, vital for fish spawning and rearing, an important ecological function lacking in the river.

When complete, The Park at Expo Idaho will span more than 50 acres and serve as a premier community destination, featuring skateparks, nature play areas for children, and direct access to the Boise River and the Boise River Greenbelt. The park will be a key addition to the 240-acre Expo Idaho Property, already home to the annual Western Idaho Fair, which attracts over a million visitors each year.

Ada County Commissioner Ryan Davidson highlighted the value of the project for the community, saying “For anyone who lives in or visits Ada County, this ambitious project further reinforces our community’s identity as a place that loves, appreciates, and invests in healthy outdoor spaces.”

RIVHAB’s commitment to sustainability, ecological integrity, and the enhancement of local environments makes them the ideal partner for this groundbreaking project. The construction of side channel habitats and wetlands is crucial to the ecological restoration of the Boise River, and RIVHAB’s expertise will ensure the vision for a thriving, natural space is realized.

For more information about RIVHAB or to inquire about their services for future water resource projects, contact [email protected].

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About RIVHAB, PLLC: RIVHAB, PLLC, is an Idaho-based contractor and engineering firm specializing in stream construction, water management, turbidity controls, permitting compliance and fisheries expertise. RIVHAB is an Idaho Public Works Licensed Contractor in heavy civil construction (Class AA) with bonding capabilities up to $1.5 million.