Commission backs surplus of half‑acre parcel in exchange for Atlas Trail improvements

The Coeur d'Alene Parks and Recreation Commission on Jan. 26 recommended that City Council approve the surplusing of a 0.5‑acre triangular parcel adjacent to the planned Atlas Trail in exchange for public improvements and trail construction.

Staff described the parcel as an irregular piece of a former BNSF railway right-of-way acquired in 2014; the transcript cites a notional purchase price of $2,500,000 for a larger parcel and lists the triangular piece at roughly 22,000 square feet. Staff noted the small, irregular lot has limited development potential because it lacks road frontage and utilities.

Parkwood Business Properties presented a proposal to improve the trail corridor in conjunction with a planned Center for Healthy Living (Heritage Health tenancy). Chris Meyer, representing Parkwood, described a 15‑foot asphalt trail through the 60‑foot right-of-way, a split trail profile to separate joggers and cyclists, lighting matching Atlas Mill District standards, a bike maintenance station, widened concrete areas for public art or exercise equipment, and a new bus stop and trailhead access. Meyer said the developer and Heritage Health would perform frontage improvements and install pipe and power with Avista coordination.

Staff framed the exchange as value-equivalent: Parkwood is offering trail-related improvements and solar lighting for the skate park with a total proposed value of $85,000, which staff said is equal to or greater than the estimated current value of the parcel. Staff recommended using estimated land value to set a minimum for the surplus hearing; City Council will determine whether an appraisal is required and would set a public hearing on the proposed conveyance under Idaho Code 50-1402. If council acts in favor, a public hearing would be noticed on 03/03/2026 to meet the 14-day notice requirement cited under Idaho Code 50-1403.

Commissioner (Speaker 3) moved to recommend surplus approval; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Staff said the item will be considered by City Council at its Feb. 3 meeting for determination of appraisal needs and subsequent public hearing scheduling.