The artists’ renderings of the six-story JUMP building shows elements of whimsy, like spiraling tube slides and a group of fountains.

The overall design has been tweaked to blend better with Downtown Boise and to make the inside spaces more efficient and operational for users, says Kathy O’Neill, community programs coordinator for the project. Bathrooms, more lobby space and storage areas have been added. Other changes include concrete construction instead of steel for the above-ground parking garage, shorter slides and subtler colors.

On July 18, the Boise Design Review Committee recommended that the Planning and Zoning Commission approve the changes. Planning and Zoning is set to review the designs Monday, Aug. 6. The commission’s approval would pave the way to apply for a building license.

Passers-by should see the helix-shaped building begin rising from the ground about Thanksgiving, O’Neill says.

Jack’s Urban Meeting Place has been in the works since about 1999. It honors its namesake, the late J.R. Simplot, an Idaho farm boy who became a billionaire by founding what became one of the world’s largest agribusiness companies.

JUMP is planned as a museum, event venue and general space for the public to enjoy and learn new skills and crafts. The landscape around the building will feature a park atmosphere.

The project also includes studios for dance, multimedia, cooking and meetings, plus an area for banquets and organizational gatherings.

JUMP is expected to be completed by the summer of 2014.

“We’re right on schedule,” O’Neill says.

Sandra Forester: 377-6464, Twitter: @IDS_Sandra