Here's a map of the proposed purchase. The BNSF right of way being purchased is in pink. (Courtesy: City of Coeur d'Alene)

The City of Coeur d’Alene and the Lake City Development Corporation, aka LCDC, (Coeur d’Alene’s Urban Renewal Agency) are completing the acquisition of a 2.2-mile stretch of former railroad right-of-way adjacent to the Spokane River. The land purchase will allow opportunities for improved public access and economic development along the waterfront. “Without the right-of-way, no one would look at those parcels because a big chunk of that property was tied up by the railroad,” said Coeur d’Alene Mayor, Steve Widmyer. “This is a tremendous opportunity because it opens it up for both public access and economic development.” After four years of negotiations with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, the city and LCDC will finalize the $2.5 million land purchase on Thursday. LCDC provided nearly $1.5 million for the land purchase while the city paid just over $1 million/Keith Erickson, city of Coeur d'Alene. More here.

Question: Just one more example how LCDC has helped progress in the city of Coeur d'Alene. Right, Kathy Sims & Mary Souza?