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ROBERTS, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of Roberts unveiled its new wastewater collection improvement project today.

The new system replaces the degraded pipes and lift station originally built in the 1960s. Thanks to funding from STAG (State and Tribal Assistance Grants) grants secured through Congressman Mike Simpson’s office and grants from the Department of Commerce, not a penny of the over $2 million project came out of the pockets of the community.

“It took eight years from conception to completion,” explains Mayor Robert “BJ” Berlin. “These projects, we always have to be ahead of the game. And so we have two more phases, we figure on this project. And so hopefully it doesn’t take a year to get to those. But we will we’ll do it as quick as we can.”

Mayor berlin says the new system improvements are set to last the city another 50 years. 

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of Idaho Falls invites the community to come together for a celebration honoring the city’s historic water tower and welcoming the new one. The Water Tower Tribute Block Party, including a fireworks show,  will take place on Friday, October 10, from 5 to 9 p.m. in downtown Idaho Falls on Memorial Drive.

Hosted in partnership with the Idaho Falls Farmers Market and the Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation, the free, family-friendly event will feature:

• A special night market
• Music
• Water tower-themed giveaways, including hats, shirts and stickers
• A local artist creating a live painting of the tower for attendees to watch
• A water tower-themed art project for kids
• A water tower-themed photo booth
• A community wall where attendees can share what they love about Idaho Falls
• Remarks from community leaders
• A light show on the new water tower
• A fireworks show to cap off the evening

Memorial Drive will be closed to vehicle traffic from 2 to 10 p.m. on Friday, October 10, to allow for event setup, takedown, and the safety of attendees. Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, use nearby parking, and allow extra travel time while enjoying the festivities.

“For nearly nine decades, the water tower has served our community and stood as a familiar part of Idaho Falls’ skyline,” said Mayor Rebecca Casper. “While it’s hard to say goodbye to something so familiar, building a new tower was an important step to protect public safety and prepare for the city’s future. This celebration is a chance to honor our history while embracing what’s ahead.”

The old tower, built in 1937, has long served as a beloved community landmark. However, at 88 years old, it has reached the end of its service life and no longer meets current building codes or seismic requirements. The new water tower was constructed to ensure safety, reliability, and sufficient water storage to support Idaho Falls’ continued growth.

Over the past year, the City of Idaho Falls has hosted various events to honor the legacy of the original tower, including art and photo contests, community art projects, and performances celebrating its role in the city’s history. The upcoming block party will serve as the final tribute, a moment for the community to both say farewell to the old tower and celebrate the new tower.

“This will be the capstone celebration, the big finale, and the last opportunity for our community to come together in honor of the old tower and in anticipation of the new one,” said Mayor Casper. “It is both a farewell and a welcome, a chance to stand together in honor of our history while embracing our future.”

The City of Idaho Falls encourages residents and visitors to join the fun downtown and take part in this one-of-a-kind community celebration. From music and local vendors to the new tower’s dazzling light show and fireworks, the Water Tower Tribute Block Party promises to be a memorable evening for all who attend.

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The Idaho Falls Catholic Community is inviting the public to join them in prayer at a “Rosary Rally” on Saturday at 3:00 PM. 

The rally is one of 23,000 that will be held across the country as part of a campaign from “America Needs Fatima,” an organization dedicated to spreading the message from events in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917, which revolved around apparitions of the Virgin Mary. 

“That was one of the petitions from Our Lady, to pray the Rosary as a way to become more faithful, to grow in your faith, and to get closer to God,” says rally organizer Carlos Estrada.  

He also says you don’t even need to be Catholic to pray the Rosary, and even if you don’t own a set of Rosary beads, they will be happy to provide you with one.  

Estrada also feels this year’s rally is more important than ever.  

“We have thought about all these divisions happening in the United States,” he says. “We need to go back to mercy, really, to be merciful with each other, to be loving with each other. That’s what this nation needs to get back to.” 

Estrada says last year’s event had a great turnout, and organizers are expecting an even bigger one this year. 

It will be held outside Christ the King Church on the corner of 17^th and Woodruff in Idaho Falls. 

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — Madison County Deputies are currently on the scene of a fatal crash in the area of 11000 East, south of Highway 33.

11000 East is closed from 2000 North to East Highway 33 while deputies investigate the crash with assistance from the Idaho State Police.

There is no disruption to traffic on Highway 33 at this time.

Officials are directing the public to avoid the area and use alternate routes. Madison County Sheriff’s Office will provide an update once the roadway has reopened.

This is a developing story. Local News 8 will provide more details as they become available.