Deanna: Keep Independence Pt Lot

At the Coeur d’Alene City Council meeting last night, former councilwoman Deanna Goodlander argued for the city to keep its parking lot at Independence Point: “For many of us who are disabled or elderly that is the last location for us to go and enjoy the view down the lake. If you look at what is available, the Dike Road is a view of the river, and parking there is very limited. There is no parking on the Centennial Trail side of the dike, Lakeshore Drive has no parking, then comes Independence Point. We took access along the boat ramp for cars away when we redid McEuen. I voted for that because I believed that the access for all the people was important for that park. Our next opportunity to view down the lake is along Sanders Beach, which is blocked by fencing of the private properties and limited parking. More here. Deanna’s full comment here.

• Also: Renata McLeod’s draft minutes from Tuesday’s council meeting here.

Question: I think Deanna’s correct. I generally don’t like concrete on the waterfront. But I don’t consider the Independence Point parking lot to be obtrusive. And it serves a terrific purpose, especially during shoulder seasons, in providing easy access to the lake for the disabled and elderly. Thoughts?