Rathdrum Council Names New City Park and Street after Community Input

During the Rathdrum City Council meeting held on August 13, 2025, significant discussions centered around the naming of a new street and park associated with the upcoming city hall project. The meeting highlighted the community's involvement in selecting names that honor local figures and reflect the city's heritage.

The proposed street, which will connect Lancaster Road to the new city hall, is critical for addressing and will require a name for the final plat submission to the county. The council reviewed several naming options, including "Wicklow," which references Rathdrum, Ireland, the city’s namesake, and "Cowley," after a local businessman who played a role in the city's history. Other suggestions included "Municipal" and names honoring community members such as "Mark Worthen," "Lance Bridges," and "Vic Combs," all of whom have made notable contributions to Rathdrum.

Community engagement was evident as the council shared survey results from various outreach efforts, including a community night and online platforms. The name "Wicklow" emerged as a frontrunner for the street, receiving 80 votes in one survey and 101 in another, while "Mark Worthen Memorial Park" led the park naming with 355 responses.

In a poignant moment, the mayor introduced the idea of naming a park after Kaylee Jade, a local victim of a tragic incident in Moscow. This suggestion sparked a discussion about the potential for future parks to honor her memory, reflecting the community's sensitivity and desire to memorialize those lost.

Ultimately, the council voted to name the street "Wicklow Road" and the park "Kaylee Jade Memorial Park," demonstrating a commitment to honoring local history and community sentiment. The council also discussed the ongoing city hall project, which is progressing towards a groundbreaking ceremony expected in September.

This meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in local governance and the council's responsiveness to public sentiment, setting a precedent for future projects and naming conventions in Rathdrum.