Longtime Capital City Development Director to Retire

John Brunelle, the longest-serving director in CCDC's 62-year history, will step down at the end of the current fiscal year.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:53pm

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A polished, geometric sculpture made of brushed stainless steel, set against a stark white background and dramatically lit to highlight its sleek, minimalist design, conceptually representing the urban renewal projects led by CCDC during John Brunelle's tenure as executive director.A sculptural representation of the clean, modernist design principles that have guided CCDC's urban renewal efforts in Boise over the past 20 years under John Brunelle's leadership.Boise Today

John Brunelle, the executive director of the Capital City Development Corporation (CCDC) in Boise, Idaho, is retiring after over two decades of leading the city's revitalization agency. Under Brunelle's tenure, CCDC has catalyzed billions in public and private investment, expanded downtown Boise, and established new urban renewal districts.

Why it matters

CCDC plays a crucial role in shaping Boise's urban landscape through public-private partnerships and infrastructure investments. Brunelle's departure marks the end of an era and will likely usher in a new vision and direction for the organization as it searches for its next leader.

The details

Brunelle is credited with overseeing the rebranding of CCDC's parking system to ParkBOI, expanding the agency's presence in downtown Boise, and establishing three new urban renewal districts while allowing three others to expire. During his time, CCDC has focused on collaboration and innovation to spur economic development and community improvements.

  • Brunelle will wrap up his position at the end of the current fiscal year on September 30, 2026.
  • CCDC is currently searching for its next director through the use of an executive search firm.

The players

John Brunelle

The executive director of the Capital City Development Corporation (CCDC) in Boise, Idaho, who is retiring after over two decades of leading the city's revitalization agency.

Latonia Haney Keith

The chair of the CCDC board of commissioners, who praised Brunelle's vision and leadership in shaping Boise during a pivotal period.

Capital City Development Corporation (CCDC)

Boise's revitalization agency that functions independently of the city, spurring improvements and growth in urban renewal districts through public-private partnerships.

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What they’re saying

“John's vision and actions have helped shape Boise during one of the most pivotal and transformative periods in our history. Under his leadership, the agency has catalyzed billions of dollars in public and private investment and expanded the thriving downtown that residents and visitors experience today.”

— Latonia Haney Keith, Chair, CCDC Board of Commissioners

“CCDC's role is to bring partners together to create the conditions necessary for high-value projects and meaningful economic opportunity. When the public and private sectors work together with a shared purpose, we can achieve outcomes that strengthen our entire community.”

— John Brunelle, Executive Director, CCDC

“CCDC's success is due to the dedication of the employees and commissioners who care deeply about our community. I'm grateful to have been part of the team.”

— John Brunelle, Executive Director, CCDC

What’s next

CCDC is currently searching for its next director through the use of an executive search firm, with the goal of finding a new leader to guide the organization into the future.

The takeaway

Brunelle's retirement marks the end of an era for CCDC, which has played a pivotal role in shaping Boise's urban landscape over the past two decades. The search for a new director will be closely watched as the city looks to continue its growth and development in the years ahead.