With OK of Northwest Boise project, zoning panel cites need for ‘more housing’

The Boise Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended the approval of a subdivision that would bring 59 homes to less than 10 acres in the northwest part of the city.

Adelaide Village would sit along West Caswell Street south of Magnolia Park, abutting Shadow Hills Elementary School. The plot of land, which now has a single-family home under “large lot” residential zoning, now needs the Boise City Council to approve a rezoning to “compact residential” before the plan can move forward.

P&Z’s vote aligned with the recommendation of Associate Planner Doug Exton, who found the proposal in line with development goals in a neighborhood north of State Street earmarked by city officials for growth.

“The population of Boise continues to grow, and the need for additional housing within city limits necessitates rezones in strategic areas such as the subject area,” Exton wrote in a report.

As presented, the plan includes a pedestrian connection to Magnolia Park, an aspect praised by zoning panel Co-Chair Jennifer Mohr. She called the small-unit design “appropriate and thoughtful” but also lamented the decision not to include commercial space on the 9.7-acre site.

Commissioner Tony Torres echoed that concern before casting his vote to advance the project to the City Council.

“I’d like to see something commercial in this project, but code doesn’t require it,” he said. “I’m in this area, and the rezone makes sense to me. It will provide more housing, and as I’m sure people hear me say every week, we need more housing in this city and in this valley.”

This story was originally published November 6, 2025 at 4:00 AM.