Local Council debates changes to master plan for 2,800 housing units

During the recent Planning and Zoning meeting for the City of Coeur d'Alene, significant discussions centered around the proposed development plan that includes 2,800 residential units. A key point of contention arose regarding the removal of 10 acres from the master plan for a church site, which has raised questions about the overall density and land use in the area.

The developers indicated that despite the removal of land for the church, the total number of residential units would remain unchanged. This decision allows for a shift in density, as the developers plan to introduce a commercial component at the corner of Hanley and Poleine, potentially transforming the area into a shopping mall. This change has sparked concerns among community members and officials about the implications for traffic and local infrastructure.

Critics of the proposed commercial development argue that placing a shopping mall at this location could lead to significant traffic issues. They emphasize that the area is not suitable for commercial use and advocate for maintaining the current zoning, which would prevent commercial development on that corner. The sentiment expressed during the meeting suggests a strong desire to prioritize traffic flow and community safety over new commercial ventures.

As the discussions continue, the Planning and Zoning Commission faces the challenge of balancing residential growth with the need for responsible land use. The outcome of these deliberations will have lasting implications for the community's development and infrastructure. Stakeholders are keenly awaiting further decisions that will shape the future of Coeur d'Alene.