Tale of a street and city

Sherman Avenue is the place to be.

Athol? Well, that tiny community with the frequently abused name could get there eventually.

In the heart of Coeur d’Alene, Sherman Avenue has been recognized by the American Planning Association as one of five great streets on its annual Great Places in America list.

The APA program spotlights streets showing exceptional character, quality and planning — attributes the organization says enrich communities and facilitate economic growth. Idaho claimed 40 percent of the award-winners this year. Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene and Main Street in Ketchum were joined by South 24th Street in Albuquerque, Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, and Main Street in Davidson, N.C.

While East Sherman Avenue still has a ways to go — it remains something of a hodge-podge without quite the upscale stature of its western half — civic leaders and neighborhood residents are working to address any perceived eastside shortcomings. Meanwhile, Athol officials are reaching out to community members to chart a positive course for the next decade or so. After conducting a public meeting Tuesday night, another one is on tap tomorrow evening at 7 in the Athol Community Center, 30355 N. Third St. The Thursday night gathering will feature members of a distinguished community review team sharing results of what they’ve learned over the past month, doing extensive research while talking with community members including civic and business leaders.

Athol will benefit by this extraordinary program that’s done by dedicated souls who pay their own way, including transportation and lodging. City officials, led by new Mayor Bob Wachter, recognize that the community’s potential hasn’t been met. Hearing from not just Athol citizens but also people in surrounding areas should help unify residents in their quest for a stronger, more vibrant community.

We applaud the businesses and residents along Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene for attracting positive national attention. Even more heartily, we congratulate Athol citizens and officials for pulling together to shape a better future. Growth in this beautiful county is almost guaranteed. Growing right is the challenge Athol has wisely and courageously chosen. Here’s hoping there’s a packed house tomorrow night at 7 in the Athol Community Center.