University of Idaho’s College of Art and Architecture students presented ideas to help the City of Bovill modernize its infrastructure and reduce wildfire risk, according to a May 9 announcement. Over the past year, city officials and local business owners have collaborated with the student group to discuss ways to make Bovill more attractive for visitors and residents.
Christine Jewell, Bovill’s city clerk and treasurer, said, “We have a lot of people coming through this area, and it would be nice if we could make some changes to encourage more people to stay here longer. We’re not going to grow into a big city, but I think if we make it a little more user friendly, it would benefit the whole community.”
The project involved several on-site tours by students during the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters. Their work culminated in an online presentation in March where they discussed potential architectural projects with city officials. Shauna Corry, dean of the College of Art and Architecture (CAA), said, “I love this project because we get to involve multiple CAA departments as well as our Center for Resilient Communities (CRC).”
Students focused on small-scale improvements such as upgrades at Caroline Park next to City Hall and enhancements at the town’s RV park. Grayson Bornhoft, a junior studying landscape architecture, explained that their designs included permanent buildings for laundry facilities or locker rooms at the RV park: “There’s a lot of long-term visitors to the area, so having a more permanent facility would make things more comfortable for them.” Larger proposals included refurbishing historic buildings like the Bovill Opera House.
Addressing environmental concerns was also part of their plan. Sean Moon from CRC said, “We’re assisting Bovill by developing plans for civic improvements that are environmentally wise and will help prevent damage from wildfire.” Students suggested measures such as bioswales around parks and water storage solutions for fire prevention.
Jeremy Ritter from Camas Prairie Winery noted positive reactions among local leaders: “I think what the students have come up with has kind of opened up the eyes of some city council people and shown them what’s possible,” he said. “I think the response has been very positive and hopefully we can use some of these ideas to improve our city.”
