Partner Communities
Bannock Development Corporation continually cultivates a close working relationship with city officials in each of our Partner Communities to stay abreast of the unique opportunities these smaller towns present for new or expanded economic activity.
Our region is a goldmine for local recreation and a rural lifestyle. Many regional residents commute to Pocatello for employment, expanding the workforce available to Pocatello businesses.
Partner Community Links
The Idaho Technology Corridor is a recognized center for the development of technology-led enterprise. The corridor flanks I-15 from the Utah border north to St. Anthony, reaching west to Arco. The Idaho Technology Corridor has gained national attention as a unique collection of assets and cooperative arrangements that have proven particularly attractive to technology-led, entrepreneurial companies. Those assets include a strong labor force, education and training resources, an existing and thriving technology environment, and a sophisticated, well-developed support system for companies considering locating to the region.
DowneySettled in the late 1860's by Mormon pioneers, Downey has a strong agricultural heritage, and even today its vitality depends heavily on ranching, farming, and other agri-businesses. Local events and attractions include the annual South Bannock County fair, an exciting amateur rodeo and Downata Hot Springs, a natural hot springs water park and pool, with campgrounds and other amenities nearby. Real estate in Downey is affordably priced, offering an alternative to residents of Southeastern Idaho who seek a rural, hometown atmosphere.
- Population: 558 people
- Location: 41 miles south of Pocatello
- Education: Downey Elementary School; Marsh Valley Middle School and Marsh Valley High School (both located 11 miles north of Downey in Arimo)
To learn more about Downey, visit the community's Web site.
Inkom
Nestled in the picturesque Portneuf Gap valley, residents of Inkom enjoy spectacular four-season vistas showcasing nearby Pebble Creek Ski.
- Population: 668 people
- Location: 11 miles southeast of Pocatello
- Education: Inkom Elementary; Marsh Valley Middle School and Marsh Valley High School (both located 18 miles south of Inkom in Arimo)
Lava Hot Springs
A bustling resort town, many of Lava Hot Springs' residents commute to work in Pocatello. The hills and mountains surrounding Lava Hot Springs also offer real estate opportunities for retirement homes and summer retreats, making the small community a perfect weekend getaway and recreation location. The pleasant mountain setting transforms from lush green summers to vibrant fall foliage to trimmed with snow in winter.
- Population: 468 people
- Location: 35 miles southeast of Pocatello; 150 miles north of Salt Lake City, Utah
- Education: Lava Elementary School; Marsh Valley Middle School and Marsh Valley High School (both located 20 miles south of Lava in Arimo)
The Hot Springs
Once part of the original Fort Hall reservation, Native Americans long held the belief that Lava Hot Spring's 110-degree (F) natural hot pools offered incredible health benefits. The history of formal management of the springs and hot pools dates to the late 1800's and a treaty agreement between the Shoshone-Bannock Tribe and the U.S. Government. With the treaty the federal government purchased the springs and surrounding land, which encompassed approximately 178 acres.
A 1902 act granted the lands to the State of Idaho to be held by the state for public use. Later, all rights to the operation, management, control, maintenance and improvement of the lands and property were vested in a foundation to be administered by the Idaho Dept. of Parks and Recreation. The hot pools still remain a popular attraction, along with the city's Olympic Swimming Complex and the area's opportunities for biking, hiking, dining, camping, and lodging in Lava Hot Spring's quaint hotels and inns.
To learn more about Lava Hot Springs, visit the community's Web site.