Agricultural Research Center

Payette and the surrounding region possess good soils, plentiful water and conducive weather for a prosperous agricultural empire. Local fruit, vegetable and grain crops have been a source of pride to the area since the late 1800’s. More recently, livestock, onion and sugar beets have prospered in the area.

To strengthen the city’s ties to agriculture and perpetuate its economic role in the region, it is recommended that Payette pursue an agricultural research facility for the city. An excellent location for future development would be the block surrounded by 6th Street, 3rd Avenue South, 7th Street and the nearby swimming pool complex. This setting would take advantage of the adjacent Payette River and Kiwanis Park, and it would both serve and enhance the city center.

The opportunity exists to promote this site and its future use for the city. Similar to the purchase and marketing of the Payette Industrial Park site, five miles north of the city, this city center site would be assembled by the Payette Industrial Corporation. More specific marketing information would be needed to target prospective users of the site, but generally, it would be made available for either a public or private agricultural research-oriented agency or business.

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