BOISE, Idaho – The Boise City Council voted unanimously to stabilize the historic Union Block building in downtown Boise, which has been deemed unsafe as of November 2023. The condition of the building has affected local businesses, blocking key pedestrian pathways and impacting pedestrian traffic.

• While stabilization costs are estimated at $2.7 million, city leaders plan to proceed with repairs even as legal disputes with the building’s owner, Ken Howell, continue.
• Nearby business owners, like Ron Nahas of the Key Bank building, are urging quick action to restore safe access and support local businesses.

(The following is a transcript of the full broadcast story.)

“Next we have to consider the estimated costs to stabilize the Union Block building,” Boise Mayor Lauren McLean says as she opens Tuesday’s city council meeting.

The Boise City Council voted unanimously to take action to stabilize the historic Union Block building on Idaho Street in downtown Boise.

The 120-year-old structure was declared unsafe and vacated in November 2023, affecting sidewalks and surrounding businesses.

With repair costs projected at $2.7 million, city leaders are moving forward to ensure security around the building, even as legal battles with the building’s owner, Ken Howell, continue.

“This is a 120-year-old historic sandstone building. The detailed cost report, in summary, is to stabilize the structure, secure the front façade and stabilize the alley behind the building,” says Shawn Wilson, administrator of the building. city ​​of Boise. facilities program manager.

Howell, who did not attend Tuesday night’s meeting, filed a motion Monday seeking a restraining order to prevent the city from intervening; a judge denied the request.

I attempted to contact Howell for comment but did not receive a response.

Meanwhile, neighboring businesses are feeling the impact. Ron Nahas, owner of the adjacent Key Bank building, says the ongoing closures have disrupted foot traffic and hurt businesses.

“We haven’t had pedestrian access from our building to 8th Street for over a year. It makes it very difficult to rent because we don’t have pedestrian access along Idaho Street, so it’s hurting us. I think it’s time to act “This has been going on for too long. It’s outrageous,” says Ron Nahas, owner of the adjacent Key Bank building.

Nahas describes the public rights-of-way around the Union Block building as essential for businesses, and hopes the city’s stabilization efforts will soon restore safe pedestrian access, allowing the surrounding businesses and community to return to normal.

“I am hopeful that they will set aside these funds and act quickly to finish the work and reopen those sidewalks,” Nahas says.

With council support secured, the city will begin stabilization efforts, while discussions continue over recovering Howell’s costs.