At the corner of 11th and Bannock in downtown Boise, a new park is officially open for visitors. The park became instantly recognizable once its large pink tree complete with two-seater swings was erected and the park was named after local government official and human rights advocate Sen. Cherie Buckner-Webb.
Honoring the Parks Namesake
A multi-generational Idahoan, Cherie Buckner-Webb has an impressive level of accomplishments in the Gem State. Buckner-Webb was the first Black woman elected into the Idaho Legislature, serving the House of Representatives from 2010 to 2012 and three terms as an Idaho State Senator. She was integral in the preservation of the St. Paul Baptist Church which is now the Idaho Black History Museum. She has also served on boards for non-profits like the WCA, the Idaho Human Rights Education Coalition, the Andrus Center for Public Policy, to name a few. Cherie Buckner-Webb is an exemplary Boise citizen who has given more than can be recognized back to her community. Through her tireless activism, government work, and community engagement, she has earned the honor of having the stunning downtown Boise park named after her.
Park or Public, Interactive Art?
In the hustle and bustle of Boise’s fastly growing urban center, this corner block park is now open for everyone to connect with nature and art.
Cherie Buckner-Webb Park features:
- Large open area lined with trees
- Public art
- Shaded seating
- Streetscapes
- Pedestrian alley
- Public restrooms
- Bike storage
One of the most recognizable features of the park is the large public art in the Northeast corner of the space. Named “Gentle Breeze” the breathtaking pink tree was designed by Matthew Mazzotta. The dazzling piece also features swinging seats under the “branches”, each with enough room for two people to sit on one bench.
The new Cherie Buckner-Webb Park at 11th and Bannock is the perfect place to grab a bite from one of the surrounding restaurants or cafes like Lemon Tree and Co. or Broadcast Coffee.