Destination Caldwell | Business Improvement District Portal
BID Portal
Table of Contents
What is the BID?
Budget
Who is Destination Caldwell?
2024 Executive Director Year in Review
Board Minutes
High Impact Projects
Grants
What is the BID?
The Caldwell BID (Business Improvement District)
Downtown Caldwell’s Business Improvement District (BID), established by the Caldwell City Council’s Ordinance No. 3067, will be administered by Destination Caldwell with a BID Board comprised of downtown property owners and stakeholders who have a vested interest in downtown.
The Downtown Caldwell BID will provide partial funding for the operations of Indian Creek Plaza, including, but not limited to, management and staffing, scheduling, marketing, beautification, and programming of year-round events at the Plaza and BID core.
All properties within the Downtown Caldwell Business Improvement District are subject to an annual assessment from the City of Caldwell that will be passed through to Destination Caldwell for the management and operations of Indian Creek Plaza. Property owners located within the district’s boundaries will receive the assessment via the City of Caldwell. Assessments are billed in January and are due in full by March 1st.
Process of Collection of Funds
The creation of the Business Improvement District (BID) was in August of 2016. The BID is a self-taxing district established by property owners to enhance the economic vitality of Downtown Caldwell and passed with over 50% of businesses in support as required by City Council.
Annual Assessment & Assessment Tiers
All properties within the Downtown Caldwell Business Improvement District are subject to an annual assessment from the City of Caldwell that will be passed through to Destination Caldwell for the management and operations of Indian Creek Plaza. Property owners located within the district’s boundaries will receive the assessment via the City of Caldwell. Assessments are billed in January and are due in full by March 1st.
Tier 1:
Within the BID, properties located in Tier 1, the annual assessment shall be equal to one-third of one percent (1/3%) of the most recent assessed value, as determined by the Canyon County Assessor's Office.
Tier 2:
In the case of properties located in Tier 2, the annual assessment shall be equal to one-quarter of one percent (1/4%) of the most recent assessed value, as determined by the Canyon County Assessor's Office.
Collection Amendments:
There is a five percent cap and five percent floor to assessment changes year-over-year to help buffer those assessed against market volatility as property values increase and decrease.
Learn More about the BID, and see full sized photo at the City of Caldwell’s website.
Make your voice heard! Share your feedback and be a part of shaping Caldwell!
About Destination Caldwell
Destination Caldwell was founded by a grassroots team of local citizens, downtown property owners, and business leaders to create better opportunities for living, working, and playing together. The purpose of establishing the organization was, and still is today, to enhance the city's and surrounding region’s economic base and vitality by leveraging the bountiful resources the City of Caldwell and surrounding region offer to attract and retain visitors and businesses.
Since its founding in 2013, Destination Caldwell projects have attracted millions of visitors and generated millions of dollars in economic impact for Caldwell and the surrounding area.
Our Purpose
• To slow the leakage of locally earned money being spent elsewhere.
• To differentiate Caldwell from the other communities in Idaho & the Northwest.
• To make downtown Caldwell a vibrant, active gathering place and a showcase for the entire Western United States.
• To put Caldwell “on the map” as a desirable place to live, visit and raise a family.
Our Pillars
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Small-town charm is abundant, while industry and business are booming across the city. The economic development team from the City of Caldwell has done a tremendous job of attracting new businesses. Since 2018, over 50 new businesses have come to Caldwell. Historic landmarks intersect with local artisan boutiques, inviting adventurers to experience our unique history and write some of their own. Destination Caldwell serves as a regional destination marketing office, functioning as the marketing arm and a centralized business support hub to help strengthen the economic health of the business improvement district.
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Over 250 annual events are programmed by the Destination Caldwell team. These activations are the centerpiece of our community, including ice-skating, concerts, farmer’s markets, cultural events, and family-friendly themed expositions. These initiatives drew over 3 million visitors into downtown in 2024. Destination Caldwell believes in the power of community and service. This is demonstrated in several of our programs, including the SK8 Ribbon Coalition, a free youth mentorship program that focuses on teaching students fundamental life skills through ice skating, serving over 50 youth annually.
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Destination Caldwell launched guided seasonal tours in 2023 in conjunction with 37 local farmers, producers, state of Idaho agricultural affiliates, and farm-to-fork restaurants. These tours are offered on the second and fourth Friday of each month and run seasonally through October. Tours include transportation and a knowledgeable, local tour guide. Our guests experience 4-5 stops on the AgVenture Trail which include a farm-to-fork lunch, wine and cider tastings, and unique, artisan gifts made in Idaho. Several new wineries have come into the area and more are being developed; the Snake River AVA and Sunnyslope region is one of the fastest burgeoning wine regions in the country.
2024 | A Year In Review
A Letter From the Executive Director: Denae Warren
Thank you, property and business owners for making Indian Creek Plaza the premier gathering place in Idaho!
Nearly a decade ago, visionary community leaders—representing the City of Caldwell, Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, property owners, and dedicated volunteers—embarked on an unprecedented journey to redefine community and economic development in our state. These modern-day pioneers collaborated with downtown development expert Roger Brooks to create a strategic roadmap, and their efforts have transformed Caldwell into one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, now ranking 14th in growth.
Caldwell’s Remarkable Transformation
In 2024, the results of this ambitious vision are undeniable. The Indian Creek Plaza has become the living room of Caldwell, hosting over 300 programmed days of activities, 17 signature events, and welcoming the public year-round. Once considered a ghost town with empty lots and vacant storefronts, Caldwell is now a thriving, vibrant community. Our downtown features a 370+-business district incubator, driving millions of dollars into the local economy and serving as a model for small-town revitalization across the nation.
To our investors and steadfast businesses, whether new or long-established, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your continued support and investment have been instrumental in making Caldwell a place where people want to gather, live, and thrive. Because of you, Destination Caldwell has achieved so much. Together, we’ll continue writing the next chapter of this incredible journey into 2025.
2024 SUCCESS FOR THE BID
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Indian Creek Plaza was voted Best Local Family Event Center and won Best Place to Cool Off in the Summer for Best of Canyon County in 2024.
Increased Signature Events: Caldwell Culinary Week, First Thursdays, Cars & Coffee & the Caldwell Creepy Crawl were organized and amplified by Destination Caldwell.
95 Days - Ice Skating
70 Activity Days - CNR Watch Parties, Yoga on the Plaza, Mardi Gras, Heart of Caldwell, 9/11 Memorial Event, Storytime on the Stage, First Thursdays, Caldwell Creepy Crawl…etc.
20+ Community Events including Brown Bag Concert, Tejano Music Festival, Treasure Valley Down Syndrome Walk, Freedom Brewfest, Bam Jam, & Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge.
20 Days – Tuesdays on the Creek Concert Series
20 Days – Farm to Fork Farmers Market
17 Days - Signature Event Days
9 Days of Giving Machines which included live family-friendly entertainment
6 Days - AgVenture Trail Tours
150 Splash Pad Days
= 336 Days of Programming of which BID funds were applied to.
AgriTourism Expansion: Second year of DC’s paid, guided tour product for the AgVenture Trail. This initiative connects guests downtown to farms and wineries in the Sunnyslope region and connects guests with our agricultural roots. Additional tours and farms stops were added in 2024. AgVneture Trail brochures are produced featuring a map of Sunnyslope Wineries and Hobby Farm stops.
Streamlined Booking: Introduced an online ticket and booking system for ice skating and firepit rentals, ensuring the Plaza remains the premier outdoor ice ribbon in the Treasure Valley. 95 days of ice skating were enjoyed by Caldwell residents, neighboring Idahoans and out of town guests.
Designed Rack Card with calendar of events. This card is produced in English & Spanish. Destination Caldwell distributed 15,000 rack cards to hundreds of businesses, hotels, visitors centers and wineries.
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Destination Caldwell serves the BID as a Destination Marketing Organization by providing an optimized website to provide out-of-town guests with curated itineraries, encouraging extended stays downtown. Total website visitors: 279,000.
Ran advertisements to drive visitors locally and across the Northwest. This comprehensive campaign included billboards across 2 local markets for 2 months, digital over the top (OTT) ad content on a variety of devices, including TVs, desktops, mobile devices, gaming consoles, and tablets. Visit Caldwell campaign on networked screen across Boise Airport. Produced a new Winter tourism digital asset. DC runs a tourism advertisement in the Idaho State Travel Guide and on SWITA’s website (See below).
Winter 1 Minute Ad Spot: Click Here
Global Representation: Caldwell was represented through Amano as a James Beard nominee and profiled in Conde Nast magazine, promoting our city as a key destination for foodies. Wine Enthusiast Magazine also named Caldwell as a destination, highlighting our growing wine region, vineyards, wineries and festivals attracting aficionados.
Tilian Development Success: The Tilian project is thriving, with 100% of its living spaces already leased.
DC & ICP Social Media:
Reached 1.6 million accounts with 56.8K followers.
Over 3 million visitors into the Business Improvement District: Indian Creek Plaza welcomed more than 550,000 guests!
Media Coverage:
Secured 53 earned positive media stories, further elevating Caldwell’s profile as a destination.
Wayfinding:
Fresh, efficient and effective wayfinding signage is being installed in the Business Improvement District. These signs highlight parking and landmarks to provide orientation cues for memorable locations.
Placer.ai:
Secured an aggregated mobile data software feature for the Business Improvement District. This allows DC to leverage guest data such as visitor journey, foot traffic counts, socio economic data, audience market and visit duration into monetization for the BID through promotion initiatives.
377,361 impressions through over the top digital streaming services advertising downtown Caldwell and Sunnyslope Wine region across 4 major Destination Marketing Areas (Seattle, Portland, Salt Lake) that serve Boise with direct flights.
DC donated thousands in sponsorships back to local, Caldwell non-profits as well as provided free or reduced youth ice skating passes to the local community.
Secured partnerships with over 30 key stakeholders, including local government, nonprofit organizations, & private businesses, raising over $350,000 for district improvements.
CHALLENGES
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The current economic climate presents unique challenges for the BID as we navigate rising operational costs, shifting consumer behaviors, and increased competition for foot traffic. Inflationary pressures and fluctuating market conditions have strained small businesses, while the demand for enhanced public spaces and amenities continues to grow.
Additionally, the evolving preferences of consumers—such as the shift toward online shopping and experiences—requires the BID +Destination Caldwell to innovate and invest strategically in programs & products that attract and retain visitors.
Despite these hurdles, Destination Caldwell and our BID continue to play a vital role in fostering economic resilience by uniting stakeholders, driving creative initiatives, and maintaining vibrant downtown areas that support both businesses and the community.
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Downtown Caldwell has experienced significant growth in recent years, transforming into a bustling hub of activity with new businesses, restaurants, and community events. While this development has brought economic benefits and continues to revitalize the area, it has also led to parking challenges and negative perception of parking. The increased number of visitors, employees, and residents has stressed the availability of parking spaces, creating congestion and frustration for those seeking convenient spots. Events and peak hours exacerbate the issue, as the demand for parking at peak event times exceeds the current supply. This situation highlights the need for innovative parking solutions, such as expanded parking facilities, lighted, secure pathways from exterior lots encouraging pedestrian walking, fresh signage, enforcement, driver behavior, and alternative transportation options, to support the area’s continued growth and ensure accessibility for all.
LOOKING AHEAD
As we step into 2025, the work continues!
Downtown economic development continues to be a priority for the City of Caldwell.
510 Arthur Street Property Acquisition:
TS Development will begin constructing a three-story, 30,000 SF mixed-use development. This project, including a restaurant, office space, and purchasable lofts, is expected to begin in early 2025.
Downtown Festival Street Concept:
To extend the Indian Creek Plaza in downtown Caldwell, the URA collaborated with architect, Cushing Terrell to design a "Festival Street" concept. This project involves removing parking stalls along Arthur Street and 7th Avenue South to create a more walkable downtown atmosphere, aligning with the City's vision for growth in the downtown core. There is no official construction date for this project; renderings are in place.
602 Main Street:
Phase two from deChase Miksis (Developed Tilian) - proposing a multi-story mixed-use project on adjacent lot.
RRC Contractors:
Planning a two-story mixed-use project on Blaine and Kimball that is approximately 10,000 SF
New Restaurant Concepts:
The downtown area has announced two new restaurant concepts coming in 2025 including The Griddle (brunch concept) in the lower level of Tilian and Nara Ramen & Sushi Bar at 702 Main Street. The Griddle signed a multi-year lease. Owners will start building out the space in early 2025.
New York Times Best Restaurant List:
Amano, making the New York Times Best Restaurant list and receiving multiple James Beard nominations is moving to 802 Arthur Street. Amano’s new space is currently being renovated; we cannot wait to see what the Alamilla’s have in-store at their beautiful new location, set to open in early 2025.
Welcoming New Downtown Business Concepts:
Destination Caldwell welcomed Kindred by the Creek in late 2024 featuring wine from their Sunnyslope Vineyard and wood fired pizza. Oakes Brothers Market Place introduced Oakes Alley in early 2025. Oakes Alley activates as a food truck court with live music and pop-up vendor launches at 709 Main Street in downtown. This outdoor space features festive lighting, cozy heaters and an inviting atmosphere for downtown guests.
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Downtown Vineyard Redevelopment: The URA assisted with the design of the Vineyard redevelopment project, focusing on removing vineyards between Indian Creek and Kimball Avenue. The site is conveniently located just south of the Grit restaurant, a popular eating destination, and will draw more pedestrian activity to the area. The project includes adding more seating and plaza-like facade improvements, with construction slated to begin in 2025.
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A videoboard is coming to the Indian Creek Stage. Videoboards have become instrumental in revitalizing downtown business improvement districts by attracting attention and fostering community engagement. These large digital displays not only serve as effective directories for local businesses but also showcase community events, watch parties (March Madness, Super Bowl, Olympics, Kentucky Derby…etc.), interface graphics with concerts, cultural highlights, and promotions which draws in residents and visitors alike.
By displaying real-time information and dynamic content, videoboards enhance the vibrancy and visibility of these districts, transforming public spaces into dynamic hubs of activity. They contribute significantly to economic growth by boosting foot traffic, increasing dwell time of visitors and creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration and patronage of local shops and restaurants. In essence, videoboards play a pivotal role in modern downtown planning, promoting connectivity and commerce while enriching the overall experience of urban life.
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In 2023, Caldwell unveiled its initial large-scale murals downtown. The city is actively fostering further artistic expression, collaborating with CBH Homes Hearts Across the Valley . This project “Hearts Across the Valley” is a public art experience that celebrates and unites our community by placing beautifully designed hearts by local artists throughout Caldwell and the Treasure Valley.
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Construction Timeline: June 2025-November 2025
The Kimball Avenue Bridge Project will replace the main bridge structure over Indian Creek and two adjacent pedestrian plazas on Kimball Avenue just north of Blaine Street. The existing two-lane bridge was originally constructed in 1933 and has deteriorated severely. Construction of the new bridge will require fully closing Kimball Avenue between Blaine Street and Arthur Street. Traffic will be detoured east to S. 9th Avenue to access downtown. The north lane on Blaine Avenue will also require closure during construction while the bridge foundation is installed.
What to Expect During Construction
• Work hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday - Friday
• Parking will be available on Kimball Ave. from the alley north of Blaine St. to Arthur St.
• Delivery access will be available in the alley north of Blaine St.
• Anticipated impacts include noise, dust and vibration
• Bidding starts April 2025
• Construction is anticipated to start in June 2025 and be completed in November 2025
• The project will replace the existing bridge and will construct new watermain, storm drainage facilities, curb, gutter, sidewalks, roadway, ADA curb return ramps and upgrade the traffic signalization.
• Kimball Ave will be closed from Blaine St. to the alley between BlaineSt. and Arthur St. The north lane on Blaine St. will also be closed during construction.
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Destination Caldwell partnered with city departments to maintain a clean and safe downtown environment, reduction in litter & trash complaints which enhanced the overall pedestrian experience of downtown visitors.
The achievements of this past year reflect our commitment to enhancing the vibrancy, safety, and prosperity of Caldwell’s Business Improvement District. As we look to the coming year, Destination Caldwell remains dedicated to advancing infrastructure projects, increasing community engagement, and supporting economic resilience.
Thank you for being a part of this journey!
Sincerely,
Denae Warren
Executive Director, Destination Caldwell | Indian Creek Plaza
Listed is the 2025 budget for the appropriation of allocated funds from the BID by Destination Caldwell
Budget
BID ASSESSMENTS OVER 7 YEARS (2018-2024)
BID Board Minutes: 2023 & 2024
2023
2024
High Impact Projects
A pillar of Destination Caldwell’s mission is to identify high-impact projects that benefit downtown and the BID (Business Improvement District). In partnership with the City of Caldwell, The Whittenberger Foundation, private donors, businesses, property owners, and BID, $155,000 has been raised to date for this project. The proposed playground site is the 6th & main Street Plaza. Families with young children can enjoy a fenced, historic train-themed playground space. This project will meet a need for families to gather year-round as well as dwell longer downtown and support the local business community. Destination Caldwell is actively seeking support from private foundations and interested philanthropists to fund the additional $50,000 for the project.
Grants
As a non-profit Destination Marketing Organization, Destination Caldwell pursues grants and private funding sources by partnering with family foundations, donors, and state granting organizations such as the Southwest Idaho Travel Association (SWITA). These funding sources are used to assist in marketing our region as a destination and fund high-impact projects that benefit Downtown Caldwell and our region.
FAQ
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The BID is managed by a Board of Directors with no fewer than 9 members. These members represent key stakeholders within the BID, the City of Caldwell, and the community. Each officer shall hold office until their successor has been duly elected and qualified. In the event of a vacancy on the Board of Directors, the President, with the consent of a majority of the remaining directors, shall appoint a successor to fill the vacancy.
When a vacancy on the board exists mid-term, the secretary must receive nominations for new members from present board members two weeks in advance of a board meeting. These nominations shall be sent out to board members with regular board meeting announcements to be voted upon at the next board meeting.
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There are many ways to get involved as a member of the BID. Please feel free to reach out to Destination Caldwell by email at info@destinationcaldwell.com
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The City of Caldwell has an ordinance that requires property owners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks that front their property.
The ordinance also states that snow cannot be piled in a way that blocks travel lanes or sidewalks.
The Parks and Recreation Department has a snow and ice removal plan for city-owned sidewalks, parks and parking lots.
The Caldwell Street Department policy for the priority of plowing Streets:
A. Major streets;
B. Perimeter streets around schools and hospital;
C. School bus routes;
D. Downtown;
E. Airport. The street department focuses on getting into subdivisions to help residents navigate to main roads as a priority.
Destination Caldwell removes snow and ice off the Plaza to keep ice skating operations going and thoroughfares clear. Destination Caldwell does not own commercial equipment nor have the manpower to remove snow from the 380+businesses in the BID.
Clearing snow and ice from the frontage of businesses is the responsibility of the property manager/owner and their tenant. For safety of your guests, a clear path to your storefront door with a sand product is recommended. Please contact your landlord if you are not the property owner with further arrangements to clear snow and ice.
Our Team
Executive Board Members
DC President: Shawn Maybon // Maybon Law
BID President: Kelli Jenkins // Downtown Property Owner
Vice President: Kaycee Emery // West Valley Medical Center
Treasurer: Esteban Lejardi // Ripley Doorn & Co PLLC
Secretary: Holly Lyons // Umpqua Bank
Board Members
Moya Dolsby // Idaho Wine Commission
Nicole Camman // College of Idaho
Gina Dowen // Gina the Corn Lady’s Sweetcorn
Lee Gientke // Pontifex Capital
Jeff Hunsicker // Downtown Property Owner
Brent Oetken // Downtown Business Owner
Ex-Officio
Mayor Jarom Wagoner // City of Caldwell
Travis Palmer // Caldwell Chamber of Commerce
Destination Caldwell Team
Executive Director: Denae Warren
Operations & Strategic Partnership Manager: Mari Isaac
Marketing
Marketing & Strategic Partnership Manager: Brittan Aebischer
Marketing & Communications Specialist: Krista Albers
Graphic Design Specialist: Kyle Helgeson
Events
Program and Events Manager: Marci Blandford
Events Assistant Manager | Skate Shoppe Manager:
Hannah Woodworth
Program and Events Coordinator: Kourtney McConnell
Facilities
Facilities Manager: Corey Turner
Facilities Assistant: Andrew Lopez
Facilities Assistant: Todd Foy
Facilities Assistant: Sergio Salazar
Facilities Assistant: Dennis Hansen
Facilities Assistant: Javier Manzanares
Facilities Custodian: Will Shuey
