Coeur D'Alene plans ADA compliance upgrades for sidewalks and traffic safety

Kootenai County is set to enhance accessibility and safety in Coeur d'Alene following a recent Board of County Commissioners meeting on February 25, 2025. The board approved a significant change order aimed at bringing sidewalks and concrete structures into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The project will address longstanding issues, including the abandonment of a problematic gate from the employee parking lot onto Government Way. This gate has contributed to traffic congestion, particularly during high school pickup times. The decision to relocate the gate to Cooney North is expected to alleviate traffic backups on Dalton Avenue, enhancing safety for both pedestrians and drivers.

The total cost for the ADA compliance work is approximately $56,000, with a $36,000 savings from the permit, resulting in a $20,000 draw from contingency funds. The board's unanimous approval reflects a commitment to improving community infrastructure and ensuring compliance with federal accessibility standards.

In addition to the ADA improvements, the board also discussed the request for an additional full-time senior maintenance operator, indicating ongoing efforts to bolster county operations and maintenance capabilities.

These decisions underscore Kootenai County's proactive approach to addressing community needs and enhancing public safety, with further developments expected as the projects move forward.