Coeur D'Alene council approves proposed billboard after traffic impact review

The City of Coeur d'Alene City Council meeting on February 4, 2025, focused on the proposed installation of a new electronic billboard, which sparked discussions about its impact on the community and compliance with city regulations.

During the meeting, council members reviewed findings related to the billboard's placement and potential effects on traffic and residential areas. One council member noted that the billboard would be set back 150 feet from the intersection and would not extend over the street, suggesting it would blend into the commercial nature of the area. This perspective indicated a belief that the billboard would not be overly disruptive to local traffic or residents.

Additionally, the council confirmed that the proposed billboard meets city standards for illumination and electronic messaging, as outlined in the Coeur d'Alene municipal code. Adjustments to ensure compatibility with existing digital billboards were also discussed.

A council member reflected on past discussions regarding electronic billboards, expressing a desire to limit their presence in the city. However, they acknowledged that the opportunity to ban such billboards had passed, indicating a shift in the community's landscape that is now characterized by these digital displays.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing balancing act between commercial development and community aesthetics, as the council navigates the implications of new signage in Coeur d'Alene. The next steps will likely involve further discussions on the billboard's installation and its integration into the city's visual environment.