McEUEN: Build it, and they will come

The cornerstone of Democracy is grounded in the freedom to express our views. Opinions can shape healthy conversation and there is certainly no lack of opinion on the McEuen Park revitalization.

The LCDC Board has unanimously agreed to provide $11.5 million in public dollars for this project. Improvements to this public space will include a new re-constructed Front Avenue, with a parking structure that will provide parking under the street, securing several new acres of green space, as well as other park upgrades. You deserve to know why we support this public initiative.

The LCDC was formed in 1997 to provide and enhance public benefit, to redevelop deteriorated parts of the city, and to spur economic growth. The agency’s financial commitment to help redevelop McEuen matches this mission. Few can argue that McEuen Park and Front Avenue, in their present condition, are sorely in need of improvement.

This beautifully situated lakeside open space is underutilized, and the multi-acre asphalt parking lot is clearly not the best use for this prime piece of property. These park and street improvements will enhance the quality of life in our community. “Quality of life” is a phrase often heard but it merits repeating that a city with high quality of life is a city with a bright future.

LCDC’s contribution to this project will not raise taxes. Because of the success in creating tax increment revenue in the Lake District, funds coming to the agency are sufficient to make this financial commitment. And, the agency has imposed conditions to ensure that this public money is spent efficiently and appropriately.

The bottom line is this — McEuen Park improvements mirror the LCDC’s goals within our Lake District: to create value, promote economic vitality and to enhance our quality of life. This project makes economic sense, is forward-thinking and it’s the right thing to do for the people of Coeur d’Alene.

DENNY DAVIS

Chairman

Lake City Development Corp.