LAUNCH: More than meets eye

As a resident living in the Silver Beach Area in Coeur d’Alene for almost 30 years, I have some concerns regarding the city of Coeur d’Alene taking over the 5 miles of Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive.

The area lies in the city’s identified area of impact, meaning it could be annexed into the city at some point in the future. I have watched over the last 30 years this area grow tremendously. I have spoken to several residents who worry that if the city were to annex, we may be forced at some time to hook up to city water and sewer. This expense could cause many residents who have lived in their homes for many years a great hardship.

Due to the growth in this area the traffic has greatly increased over the years. If the city were to seriously consider placing a public boat launch on Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive, traffic and parking issues need to be a priority. The residents living along this stretch of road will be affected by backups and issues with parking along the roadway.

In a Letter to the Editor in the Coeur d’Alene Press dated Wednesday, Aug. 22, Sandy Emerson is quoted as saying, “This would provide the city more than 5 miles of mostly waterfront land and developed pocket parks.” It is true that this is waterfront property, however, the accessibility is limited.

The access to the lake is down steep embankments covered with large boulders. As a resident of Silver Beach Road, I own and maintain steps leading down this embankment to our dock. I would hate for the public to be misinformed by believing they can access residents’ stairs, gangways and docks. These will remain private. The land is public, true, but far from “developed pocket parks.”

I urge the residents living within the area of impact to attend an open house Monday, Oct. 8 at 5 p.m. in the Community Room of the Coeur d’Alene Public Library to express any concerns you may have. The area of impact includes the Silver Beach area, Syringa Heights, Yellowstone Trail, Mullan Trail to Allen Road, Sunnyside Road to Allen Road. Feel free to ask the city for a map of the area of impact.

LAWRENCE R. EDINGER

Coeur d’Alene