In the spirit of the giving season, an Idaho family is giving the entire city of Boise a gift -- 16 acres of land for a brand new Ribbon of Jewels park.
The Ribbon of Jewels park system has become an iconic feature in the City of Trees.
Wednesday morning, Aaron Howell, co-founder of Northwest Lineman College, announced the donation of a 16-acre site in the Barber Valley -- located in the southeast corner of Boise.
The park to be developed on the property will be named in honor of Aaron's wife, Sue Howell.
In a special ceremony, it was revealed that Sue Howell Park will be located just off Warm Springs Avenue and Idaho Highway 21.
The Howells say they purchased the property last year with the goal of creating a public park to be enjoyed by generations of Idahoans, including their five sons.
Plans for the park are still in the works, but the Howells hope to highlight important landmarks from across the state of Idaho in the park's design. That way visitors can learn more about the Gem State through interactive exhibits and displays.
"As you go through the park you experience the state of Idaho, learn more about the state of Idaho," Aaron Howell said. "All the plants are from the state of Idaho and probably the feature I'm most excited about is, Lady Idaho, a statue of Lady Idaho, from the Idaho state flag."
A section of Greenbelt managed by Ada County runs along the new park's south side, and access to the Boise River will be preserved for anglers who enjoy visiting the area.
Boise Parks and Recreation says they will work closely with the Howells to create a master plan for the park, should the Boise City Council approve the park donation.
Community members will have the chance to provide feedback on the design and planned amenities throughout the master planning process.
Members of the City Council will consider the donation at their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18.
