Another Plan for Byway Offered

Most of the traffic congestion in town is not tourists or big trucks. It is the huge boom in population this area has seen in the last 20 years. More needs to be done than just a bypass to truly alleviate traffic problems and make downtown a thriving attraction. A bypass is needed to route heavy non-business traffic past downtown but a local situation needs implementing to cover increased population as well; one that ensures the health of the community.

Three proposals will achieve the goals for this and future generations: Underground Bypass, Non-motorized vehicles downtown and Parking garages.

Give people something to explore and they will be captured forever.

A route straight to the Long Bridge to the intersection of U.S. 95 and Highway 200 is the only bypass solution that makes logistical sense. It is direct and impacts the community the least, if done properly.

From the curve and bicycle path at the south end of the town; a tunnel 5,100 ft. long, just under a mile, should be dug, passing briefly under a shallow portion of the creek and marina then rising up near the washouts by the train bridge and continuing to move away from the creek and into the intersection as already proposed. A portion of the dirt dug up would be used as fill.

An underground route allows for maximum growth potential, maximizing the earth's natural cleansing abilities, the direct route, minimized audio/visual pollution and is safer for our walking citizens. Advertising for downtown establishments could be posted in the tunnel.

The offshoot in the tunnel would take those wishing to head to Schweitzer, the airport, Business Park or Canada, to their destination without delay. For those wishing to enter Sandpoint for its shops, restaurants and life, the road would be left as is. Traffic through town would flow up and down Pine St. and Fifth Ave., while non-delivery motorized vehicles from First Ave. and from Church Street would be prohibited. Parking garages would be installed close to each end of town.

No downtown parking means more area opened up for park settings. Streets redone to attract people to mill around for a day, be entertained by local artists, eat foods from local establishments; chat and relax without traffic or fear. That means money spent in our community, where it belongs.

More trees would be brought into town, raising air quality, lowering temperatures, and beautifying the town. Sandpoint would be a "True" walking town and more of a Tree City, USA. Bicycles, horse and buggy or even trolleys could be utilized.

No matter what the cost or the time involved, a project done right endures and fulfills its needs time after time.

Think about it. I can hear the directions given now, "You go across the Long Bridge and in the tunnel and then into Sandpoint, known for its beautiful, rich, relaxing atmosphere where life is a little bit slower and appreciated."

Let's do it.

- Dirk Herzog is a Sandpoint resident.