Increased Traffic Forces Rathdrum To Install Stoplights

Ask three longtimers in Rathdrum about traffic and they all tell the same story. It’s grown.

Bee Keith remembers when it was safe for kids to walk down the middle of the street.

Jim Tuttle, one of Rathdrum’s most active retirees, remembers that it took the 1970s recession before traffic backed off after the area’s last growth spell.

But Harvey Scott says it best: “On (state) Highway 41, you could have starved to death before a car came down the road, and if you broke down you’d have a long wait. Back then (some 40 years ago), folks would always stop to help you, because it could be them in need of help, next time.”

So, drum roll, please:

The first traffic lights in the city will be installed before summer is over. Idaho Transportation Department polls show that the intersection of state Highways 53 and 41 in town is traveled by an average of 7,800 to 8,800 motorists per day - one third the population of the city of Coeur d’Alene.

Most of the traffic is due to commuters north of Rathdrum, who use this route instead of the congested U.S. Highway 95.

With this amount of traffic, the state requires that signal lights be installed on the overpass that connects both state highways near the IGA.

The intersection not only has frequent motor traffic, it also is an access route for students attending schools south of the crossing.

Costs for such installations run anywhere from $40,000 to $80,000.

Usually the city pays the electrical fees or a contract between the city and state determines what amount will be paid by each.

So far, the city of Rathdrum and the state haven’t signed a contract, according to one state official.

Rathdrum Days

Longtime resident Evalyn Sylte has been named grand marshal for the July 15 parade, and “The Sylte Sisters” will honor their mother in song at The Rathdrum Family Revue, at the Rathdrum Country Fair, July 15 and 16. Those who have grown up here will remember the nostalgic radio jingles the Syltes used to sing in the ‘60s for the Boyle Oil Co. of Spokane.

Ray Stone will be performing, as only he can, with his jazz band.

Jim and Fern Tuttle will help flip flapjacks to begin the festivities at the Old City Park on Highway 53, waiting for those “fun runners” to stop in for the breakfast served by the V.F.W. and Lady’s Auxiliary.

Controls dogs, mobs

The Rathdrum City Police Department stole its newly hired officer Dale Moyer away from the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department. Moyer has experience in both canine unit training and riot control. He was chosen from among 30 candidates for the position.

Riot control in Rathdrum? If the traffic lights don’t work, he may just need it.

ILLUSTRATION: Photo