Public input sought on Huetter Corridor zoning

COEUR d’ALENE — Public hearings are being scheduled for proposed zoning changes for the Huetter Corridor project.

The $300 million Idaho Transportation Department project is a six-lane divided highway that will cut across the Rathdrum Prairie and connect Interstate 90 and Highway 95.

It has been in the planning stage for 20 years. The county’s role includes protecting access for the project by creating a zoning overlay.

“The Huetter Corridor Overlay Zone implements certain access and setback limitations in areas impacted by the project,” said David Callahan, Kootenai County’s community development director.

According to a press release, the reduced access points and new setbacks aim to:

• Preserve property that may need to be acquired for right of way for the highway project

• Protect existing rights and access for property owners within the Huetter Corridor

• Keep the cost of property acquisition for the project as low as possible

• Minimize the project’s impact on property owners within the corridor.

The Kootenai County Planning and Zoning Commission is expected to schedule the first public hearing soon. Public comment will be allowed during the hearing. Written comments can also be submitted to David Callahan at dcallahan@kcgov.us.

The Planning and Zoning Commission will make a recommendation to County Commissioners regarding the proposed overlay zone. A second public hearing will be scheduled by County Commissioners who will ultimately approve or reject the overlay zone.

Info: KeepingKootenai.com.