Corridor: Serve both public and private needs

There are currently two undeveloped parcels along the north side of the Spokane River, between Mill River and west of Riverstone, and public spaces and access to the water via the city’s newly acquired railroad right of way through this area is at a critical point in the city’s planning for the future. Proper planning cannot be emphasized enough at this timely point in the city’s growth along our public waters.

This is a prime opportunity to carry the message and strong community commitment to the principles of the Cd’A Vision 2030 Program. This includes thoughtful, supportive economic growth and community development with an eye to public spaces, parks, trails, and waterfront access. Now with the city’s ownership of the railroad corridor, there is a great opportunity to partner with private development interests along this prime waterfront, some of the last available.

A land valuation principal is the contribution and value of public space to adjacent and nearby properties and projects, with an understanding that public use can, at times, outweigh the value of private use for certain property types, such as those along waterways, natural areas, parks, and trails. The sheer opportunity to serve the larger number of users in a community with prime public space may easily outweigh the private use of a few for certain property types — private waterfront lots vs. the public “commons.”

Good planning partnerships and reasonable development allowances can work for both private landowners and public interests if all parties evaluate and understand the long-term benefits to the adjacent owners and the users from an entire community when annexation and development opportunities are brought forward.

The city has been forward thinking in its acquisition of the former railroad corridor through the old sawmill sites and it is critical to follow though in a progressive and determined manner at this point when new development is being proposed.

As has been seen in this and other similar areas already, when prime real estate is involved, more than one prospective developer can emerge. If recognizing and accommodating the public interest is a disincentive for a particular developer, others are often waiting to fulfill that role. A prudent and protective approach by community leaders along with a proactive stance for public parks and amenities is demanded for such prime property, especially when every potential exists for a positive outcome for both the public and private interests.

The city, with help from ignite cda, has stepped up with foresight and commitment to bring continuity to the community’s valuable waterfront connections of trails, parks, and public spaces. We should all strongly encourage our community leaders to move ahead vigorously but thoughtfully and with caution to be sure the gains in any exchange of railroad corridor property and the primary waterfront areas along the river are clear and create the best of all possible outcomes. The interests of the community and its citizens, our children, grandchildren, and grandchildren’s children are in the balance.

Sandy Emerson is a Coeur d’Alene resident.