EDITORIAL: East Sherman growing, has potential to be great

East Sherman Avenue. 

As the gateway to downtown Coeur d’Alene for those coming off Interstate 90, it is an area of Coeur d’Alene that has great potential and is of great importance. It could be an economic stronghold for the city, key to future development. Close to downtown. Close to Lake Coeur d’Alene. 

It is already home to strong and longtime businesses, including Vertical Earth, Moon Time, Roger’s Ice Cream and Burgers, Jimmy’s Down the Street and Fins and Feathers. It is bordered north and south by solid neighborhoods, with a mix of housing options. The North Idaho Centennial Trail runs parallel to it.

And it is growing. 

A new food truck court at 20th and Sherman has already attracted a loyal clientele, and a new coffee shop across the way has joined the list of services available. 

We like what we’re seeing in this area. 

But there are also signs of concern.

The Bottle Joy bar at 12th and Sherman didn’t last long and still sits empty. Longtime anchor Burt’s Music is closing by month’s end. There are other vacancies. There are older buildings that need renovation. More inviting options to live, work and play are needed.

Improving East Sherman isn’t a new idea.  

Remember the “Activate East Sherman” pilot project on the 1600 block of East Sherman that began in 2018? It lasted four years and involved diagonal parking and outdoor street seating in front of Moon Time. Both went away when the project ended. Just didn't quite work out.

A survey of more than 500 people found that many liked the diagonal parking and the bike parking. Planters and landscaping were popular. Most business owners liked the lower 25 mph speed limit, and some said it provided an overall better look and feel to the area. 

It was only six years ago that the city unveiled the East Sherman Revitalization Plan. Some headway has been made since. Key, of course, is funding. Ideally, private investors would take the lead, but they may need incentives, which is where the city comes in.

A mix of private/public money has been mentioned, but some have concerns about government involvement in private businesses. 

Grants and tax credits could be considered. Urban renewal is another source that comes up in talks, but again, some oppose its use if it's going to help those with money save money or make even more money. 

We hope private business owners like what they see on East Sherman and invest in its future. 

We encourage the city to continue its efforts to simplify the process for businesses to open.  

We would like to see East Sherman as a gateway to downtown, but also a destination for locals and visitors.