COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho - The planned widening of I-90 from the Washington State line to Coeur d'Alene is set to begin in 2028, with construction expected to take about four years. Once completed, drivers will have more lanes to accommodate the growing community.
However, the project has sparked concerns among local business owners and residents. The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has proposed a flyover bridge to direct traffic from I-90 onto US-95, which has raised worries about its impact on businesses along Appleway Avenue.
Councilman Dan Gookin expressed his concerns recently, stating, "This is going to kill a lot of businesses there - it seems to me you know - I'm not an engineer - but in engineering school - we say - just because you can do something - doesn't mean you have to do something."
ITD engineers explained that the widening does not provide enough time to sync existing traffic lights when exiting, which the new design aims to address by easing traffic congestion on Appleway Avenue. This congestion has been preventing drivers from accessing businesses along the road.
Some community members are also worried about the additional noise that might come with the added lanes, as the traffic would be closer to their homes. They believe a chain-link fence is insufficient to mitigate the noise. A woman speaking before city council members on February 19 emphasized the need for a noise barrier instead of a chain-link fence.
ITD representatives have stated that public feedback on the design is crucial, and there is still time to address concerns before construction begins in 2028. Those unable to attend the open house on March 5 at the Best Western on Appleway Avenue from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. can view design plans and provide feedback through ITD's website or visit the digital open house here.
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