Bellevue feels growing pains
City population jumps 13 percent since
2000 Census
By MEGAN THOMAS
Express Staff Writer
Bellevue is booming, according to the
population increases recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau.
The Census Bureau recently released
population changes for Idaho cities. Overall the cities in Blaine County
experienced an increase in growth, but none more dramatic than Bellevue.
The growth is evident as "the general
level of activity is up and up," Mayor John Barton said in response to the
population increase.
The numbers released from the Census
Bureau confirm that Bellevue leads the charge in county population growth with a
5.43 percent increase from mid-2002 to mid-2003. The increase represents 109 new
Bellevue residents. The city’s total population recorded in mid-2003 was 2115
residents. There were 2006 residents in mid-2002.
The mayor suggested the population numbers
are likely even higher since the data was collected almost a year ago.
The numbers are significant when compared
with growth around the county and the state. The Census Bureau reported that
Hailey’s population increased by 3.14 percent, Ketchum by .77 percent and Carey
by .57 percent. Sun Valley recorded no change.
Bellevue’s growth is an important
indicator of the shift in the valley’s growth.
The city’s population has increased 13
percent since the 2000 census and a 66 percent since the 1990 census.
The significant trend in Bellevue’s growth
has wide implications for the city.
According to Barton the increase in growth
places the greatest pressure on the water supply, treatment of wastewater,
street maintenance and law enforcement.
"We will have to look hard at water and
sewer and how to pay for it," Bellevue Councilwomen Vivian Ivie said.
The growth in Bellevue and Blaine County
mirrors growth around the state. The bureau calculated a 1.73 percent increase
in Idaho’s state population.