NOISE: Time for action

We’re happy that noise has been a recent topic of concern as covered by Bill Buley the Coeur d’Alene Press. But, words aren’t enough. Action is needed. It’s way past time for the city council and the police to do something about the extreme noise in the downtown area.

It’s humiliating that a dangerous two block speedway has developed right in front of City Hall between Mullan Avenue and Young Avenue. Cars with modified mufflers and ear-splitting motorcycles scream along there as if to thumb their noses at the city and impress their buddies who hang out in the lower City Hall parking lot. We’ve had to call the police many times because of the disturbance to the adjoining neighborhood and we’ve been told by a local Realtor that for nearly 10 years, she’s been selling replacement homes to the disgruntled resident-owners of the downtown high rises due to the intolerable noise. In addition, it’s become unbearable to sit at an outside patio in any of the downtown restaurants due to noise.

Coeur d’Alene risks developing the reputation as the “noisy city.” Businesses downtown should be very vocal because they will lose customers and families will avoid risking their lives just crossing the street on their way to McEuen Park as speedsters roar through their neighborhoods.

Come on Coeur d’Alene! You’re allowing rude, angry showoffs to change the very nature of this former “Norman Rockwell” city.

IRENE SMITH

Coeur d’Alene