The subject property known as parcel number RPCPP053702 near Foothill boulevard and Gathe drive is adjacent to Sacagawea Park and has a future land use designation of open space. There are two acres subject to rezoning to RCP (residential commercial professional).

Part of what makes Sacagawea Park special is the undeveloped area adjacent to it. The city should officially make this parcel a part of Sacagawea Park and forget these bad ideas of developing it. Whether it's two acres or 10 square feet rezoning this open space is against Pocatello's Comprehensive 2040 plan. There are better suited areas, even right across the river by the water department there is a city owned parcel with approximately 7.2 acres better suited to development.

In Pocatello's comprehensive 2040 plan it states it wants to be outdoor oriented. With goals including "Develop a continuous greenway system that connects to local neighborhood centers and outdoor amenities, while promoting a healthy community through recreation and active transportation." And " Guide and plan for the protection, development, and acquisition of public access to the natural resource amenities within and surrounding the Portneuf River Valley." It goes on to state " In 2040, Pocatello embraces its connection to nature through the preservation of outdoor spaces and expanded recreational opportunities that are connected & accessible. This vision element calls for the preservation of access to open space so that Pocatellans can participate in their recreation of choice, or to simply “be” in nature. Our community is one that wants to play outside and our parks and trail systems will provide for the wide variety of interest present in our community, whether it’s playing pickle ball, walking our pets on the greenway, or enjoying our world class trail systems. This vision centers the community’s identity that is rooted in its connection to the outdoors and prioritizes the access we enjoy for generations to come."

Rather than rezoning this open space to open it up for development, leave it undeveloped. Make it a part of Sacagawea Park and do what the city says it wants to do by connecting it to existing neighborhoods like the existing development happening on the West bench.

In the year 2040 when the West bench is looking more like the East bench, our children and grandchildren will be grateful for this open space that is undeveloped and citizens in Old Town and the West bench can be connected to the last remaining natural space along the Portnuef and continue to appreciate the wildlife and serenity of the area around Sacagawea.