CDA: Kudos for addressing downtown noise

We're so pleased to see the City of Coeur d'Alene addressing the downtown noise problem (CDA Press 9-8-23.) In addition to Northwest Boulevard, the vehicle noise in other downtown areas of Coeur d'Alene is seriously affecting quality of life, especially on Sherman Avenue, on Front Avenue, and on Eighth Street near the City Hall and McEuen Park. Better enforcement of noise (and speeding) ordinances is needed — and a tougher ordinance with stiffer fines will certainly help. 'Education' actions about noise laws and fines would also help, such as very visible signage about noise and fines. With muffler modifications already being illegal, it's really a matter of enforcement. So having a bigger police presence downtown would will be important.

There’s also an economic impact from the noisemakers. We've actually stopped going to downtown restaurants with outdoor seating because of loud vehicles making conversation impossible. These restaurants and The Downtown Association should take notice and be very concerned about the noise affecting their businesses, especially as the summer tourist crowd disappears.

Kudos to the city for finally taking action on this problem.

ROGER and IRENE SMITH

Coeur d’Alene