It wasn’t too long ago that Boise residents were arguing with each other — in coffee shops, lawn signs and community meetings — over a rewrite of the city’s zoning code.
Most of the arguments had to do with whether the code, which determines what can be built in different parts of the city, would increase density in the city, make traffic worse and allow buildings that don’t fit into the neighborhoods. The effects of the now-passed zoning code are beginning to come into focus, especially for those interested in taking advantage of a new rule that allows neighborhood cafes on corner lots in residential areas.
Two such neighborhood cafes could soon be on their way to Boise’s North End neighborhood, including a cafe and market at 1504 W. Lemp St. across the street from Washington Elementary School.
Brandon and Christina Turpin, who own the home on the northwest corner of 15th and Lemp streets, are seeking to redevelop a part of their property — their fenced yard — into the 1,200-square foot cafe and market.