Parking garage opens Tuesday
Workers add the final touches to Coeur d’Alene’s four-story parking garage at Coeur d’Alene Avenue between Third and Fourth streets. (LOREN BENOIT/Press)
COEUR d’ALENE — The crane that towered for months from Coeur d’Alene Avenue over the city’s downtown area is gone.
The pavement between Third and Fourth streets is once again visible, and the view from one side of the block to the other is no longer obstructed by heavy construction equipment and workers.
The city’s long-awaited, multi-story, public parking garage is about to be opened to the public Tuesday, with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11 a.m.
“The addition of the parking garage will be a great boost to Coeur d’Alene,” said Mayor Steve Widmyer. “Already we have seen two older buildings being renovated due to the parking garage coming on line.”
Located at 318 E. Coeur d’Alene Ave., the garage will offer 4½ levels of parking and provide roughly 350 additional parking spaces for downtown visitors and business employees.
The structure also contains retail store frontage available on Third Street.
“We should see increased economic development moving north toward midtown,” Widmyer said. “It’s going to be a great public asset.”
Access for general public use is on Coeur d’Alene Avenue, and 90 spaces are provided for monthly pass holders through a secure entrance on Third Street.
Signs are being installed in the area to direct motorists to the new parking structure as well as the parking available at McEuen Park.
The garage was designed by Miller-Stauffer Architects and constructed by T. LaRiviere. Funding for the project, with an estimated final cost of $7.6 million, was provided by ignite cda, the city’s urban renewal agency.
For general public parking, there will be no charge for up to two hours. Three hours and beyond will cost $1 per hour.
During events like the Holiday Lighting parade and ceremony, Art on the Green and the downtown Street Fair, Ironman, Fourth of July and Car d’Lane, a flat rate of $10 per parking space will be charged.
Secured parking costs $75 per month, and with a minimum six-month lease, a $50 deposit for a key fob is required.
Monthly parking permits are $20 for a five-day pass; $15 for 15 prepaid five-day passes; and $35 for a seven-day pass.