Coeur D'Alene council hears zone change request for mixed-use development

Coeur d'Alene's Planning and Zoning Commission made significant strides towards future development during their March 11, 2025, meeting, focusing on two primary request categories: zone changes and amendments to the annexation and development agreement.

The commission reviewed three zone change requests, including a notable proposal to rezone approximately 14 acres from R-17 to C-17. This change aims to facilitate a mixed-use development that combines commercial and residential spaces in the northwest area of the city. Additionally, a request to rezone a 0.2-acre site from R-3 to C-17L was presented to accommodate a new well site, while another 0.517-acre site would revert from C-17L to R-3 to allow for a single-family home, aligning with adjacent zoning regulations.

The second major focus of the meeting involved two amendments to the existing annexation and development agreement. The first amendment seeks to provide greater flexibility in land use types, allowing the underlying zoning to dictate permissible developments. The second amendment addresses the timing of sewer infrastructure connections, which is crucial for the project's progression.

The history of the site was also discussed, highlighting a long-term vision for development that began in 2012. The project aims to evolve over the next 20 to 30 years, with a cap of 2,800 residential units established to ensure alignment with the city's wastewater system capacity. The agreement mandates that at least 5% of residential units be designated as affordable housing, catering to the professional workforce earning between 80% and 130% of the area median income.

Furthermore, the development plan includes provisions for public improvements, such as road construction and utility installations, as well as the establishment of a police substation at no cost to the city. The commission emphasized the importance of these developments in enhancing community infrastructure and meeting the needs of a growing population.

As the city moves forward with these proposals, the outcomes of the meeting signal a commitment to responsible growth and community development in Coeur d'Alene. The next steps will involve further discussions and evaluations to ensure that the proposed changes align with the city's comprehensive plan and community goals.