Dental Implants in Coeur d'Alene, ID

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How gas prices have changed in Coeur d'Alene in the last week

Gasoline prices have increased by just a few cents compared to this time last month, but the cost to fill up the tank has declined by nearly 40 cents per gallon since last year. The national average fuel price is about $3.16, with Lubbock, Texas, seeing the cheapest metro-area prices at $2.62 and Lihue, Hawaii, with the most expensive at $5.12.

After a monthlong pause on tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, the Trump administration proceeded at the beginning of March to impose 25% tariffs on the two neighboring nations, including a limited 10% tariff on Canadian energy. However, on March 6, the president announced a pause on tariffs until April 2.

GasBuddy projects states in the Northeast could see the most significant spike in fuel prices as a result of potential tariffs, possibly by 20 to 40 cents per gallon, as this region relies heavily on Canada's New Brunswick refinery.

Meanwhile, by April, gas prices may decrease as a result of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries' plans to boost crude production. This increased output, however, is just one of several factors influencing prices in the month ahead.

"While OPEC has signaled its intent to stabilize the market, policy decisions from the White House could introduce further uncertainty, making it difficult to predict where prices will head next," GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan said in a statement this month. "However, nearly every year sees a seasonal spring increase, which could eventually push prices higher ahead of summer."

Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Coeur D'Alene, ID metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 27.

Coeur d'Alene by the numbers- Gas current price: $3.19--- Idaho average: $3.33- Week change: +$0.11 (+3.5%)- Year change: -$0.51 (-13.9%)- Historical expensive gas price: $5.06 (6/14/22)

- Diesel current price: $3.50- Week change: +$0.07 (+2.0%)- Year change: -$0.32 (-8.4%)- Historical expensive diesel price: $6.00 (7/1/22)

Metros with the most expensive gas#1. Lihue (Kauai), HI: $5.12#2. Santa Rosa, CA: $4.92#3. Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA: $4.90

Metros with the least expensive gas#1. Lubbock, TX: $2.62#2. Laredo, TX: $2.64#3. Gadsden, AL: $2.65

This story features writing by Tim Bruns and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 371 metros.

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Artist renderings courtesy Milbrandt Architects

The design of a 57-unit development was unanimously approved by Coeur d’Alene’s Design Review Commission on Thursday.

The townhouse project overlooking the Spokane River would go on strip of vacant property on the south side of Lacrosse Avenue and west of Northwest Boulevard. The five combined parcels totaling 4 acres include the abandoned right of way of the Spokane International Railroad.

"Lacrosse Avenue Townhomes" is being proposed by Blue Fern Development based in Redmond, Wash., which is the same company with townhouse plans for the historic Roosevelt Inn property.

Commissioner Jon Ingalls said the units will provide “quasi-obtainable” housing in a great spot.

“I think this is going to be a pretty rich project,” he said near the end of the 90-minute public hearing at City Hall.

Commissioner Kevin Jester agreed.

“It’s a good use of the site,” he said.

Fourteen buildings would be three stories each. The two- and three-bedroom units would range in size from about 1,000 square feet to 2,350 square feet.

There would be 124 parking stalls, with 111 in garages and 13 surface spots.

Alex Clohesey, architect with Milbrandt Architects in Kirkland, Wash., presented Blue Fern's plans.

He said they had space for up to 70 units but stayed with 57, most with river views. He said they tried to work in as much landscaping as they could and will use neutral colors to blend in with the commercially zoned district.

Units will have distinctive entries and decks. An illustration of the project shows trees, grass, brush and sidewalks, and rows of buildings with similar roof designs.

“We've focused on a product that feels like a neighborhood,” Clohesey said.

A lengthy, narrow street that will provide vehicle access to the units could use aesthetic improvements, commissioners said.

”That is a long line of three-story buildings, not that there is anything you can do about that,” Jester said, also noting that considering their footprint and setbacks, they used the property well.

Ingalls said the street could use color or landscaping, “something to give it character.”

“Study what you can do along there,” he said.

Resident Karen Hansen, during public comment, raised concerns about density and street width of the project. She asked where the snow was supposed to go and where service vehicles would park, as it would not be allowed on the street.

“I’d like to have answers to all these questions,” Hansen said.

However, she was told the areas she asked about were not applicable to the meeting and not under the DRC’s purview.

“Those are not part of the design criteria,” Ingalls said.

Hansen was told the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department may be able to answer her questions.

The commission approved the design with three conditions regarding parking signage, screening for a common trash area and that the project remain “substantially similar” to what was approved Thursday.

Benjamin Paulus, Blue Fern CEO, previously told The Press construction on the project is likely a year out.

Lakeland High School teacher Allison Knoll, seen in Lakeland green and gold during homecoming 2021, issued her resignation March 19 after nearly 20 years with the district. She cited a "toxic environment of distrust" from the school board as a main reason for her decision to leave the job she expected to retire from. Courtesy photo

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After 18 years of service, Allison Knoll, a two-time Teacher of the Year, resigned from Lakeland Joint School District during the March 19 school board meeting, delivering a critique of the district's management and educational approach.

"My experiences inside the four walls of my classroom have been amazing," Knoll told the board. "It's everything outside of that that has become the problem."

In her resignation letter, Knoll highlighted her significant contributions to the school, including organizing fundraisers that generated over $120,000 for the community, launching the broadcast journalism program and developing the drama department. However, she expressed frustration with what she described as a deeply problematic administrative culture.

"There is such a toxic environment of distrust," Knoll said. "Every decision we make is questioned and scrutinized." She cited increasingly restrictive policies that require committee approval for everything from fundraisers to classroom materials, even preventing students from reading the Coeur d’Alene Press.

The final straw came after the November supplemental levy failure and what Knoll perceived as dismissive attitudes toward teachers. She recalled board comments suggesting that teachers "should just be happy they have jobs" and should perform additional duties like emptying trash and acting as crossing guards.

"What a slap in the face!" Knoll said. "Those are the perfect comments if your goal is to undervalue the work teachers do and erode any remaining trust between us."

Students and colleagues expressed appreciation for Knoll's dedication.

Leann Lohf, Junior Class president, said, "She cares a lot about her students, and that's not something every teacher does."

Math teacher Denise Novak described Knoll as "an integral part of the Lakeland community, leaving a lasting mark on our school and beyond."

When contacted, School Board Chair Michelle Thompson responded.

"While I do not speak for the entire board, as a Trustee, I respectfully accept Ms. Knoll's decision to resign from her position with the Lakeland Joint School District, and I wish Ms. Knoll the best in her future endeavors," she said via email.

Knoll, who has taught for 15 years, said she feels compelled to speak for educators who cannot speak for themselves.

"I get to be the voice and hopefully effect some change because change needs to happen," she said.

Knoll said she has considered an education position elsewhere outside the district, but she will most likely be done with education after she resigns at the end of the school year.

Lakeland High School drama teacher Allison Knoll, second from right, is seen Nov. 17, 2024 with cast members of the school's production of "The Little Mermaid." From left: Jordin Cysewski, Vaylin Perry, Kambree Marreel, Sydney McDonald, Knoll and Jenna Olson.

There is so much to love about Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. This beautiful city in the panhandle is known for its mesmerizing scenery, resort-like vibe, and the breathtaking Lake Coeur d’Alene. While I have visited CDA dozens of times, I still vividly remember my first visit. It was a simple day trip where we spent time by the lake and at Lake Coeur d’Alene Resort. I remember being in complete awe of the places we visited, but I felt like there was so much I was missing — and I was! If I could redo my first day trip to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, the following activities would be on my bucket list.

During my first visit, I spent time near the lake, but I’d like to explore more via a lake cruise. Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises offers all types of public cruises, from seasonal cruises to daily cruises that are only 90 minutes long. Depending on the time of year of my visit, I’d love to take a daily cruise, an eagle-watching cruise, or even a dinner or brunch cruise. There are plenty of options to consider.

There are several bucket-list-worthy hiking trails in the Coeur d’Alene area, but one trail that I’d recommend tackling first is Tubbs Hill. This is a popular loop trail that is approximately two miles in length. You gain nearly 300 feet in elevation, but the trek is quite easy and family-friendly. This trail is the perfect hike for your first time in CDA as there is a little bit of everything here — forests, bridges, parks, and exquisite lake views.

If visiting between May through September each year, I strongly recommend you add the Coeur d’Alene Carousel to your itinerary. This historic carousel was located at CDA’s Playland Pier from 1942 to 1974. It was then removed, but in 2017, more than 40 years later, it was restored and opened to delight individuals of all ages once again. This carousel is a 1922 Spillman Junior built in New York.

Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway is one of the best scenic drives in northern Idaho — it’s absolutely stunning. This drive is approximately 36 miles and takes you near the lake, forests, and mountains, and gives you the chance to explore some of the natural beauty that draws individuals from all around the country. This scenic drive in the panhandle is also a great way to spot the many animals that call CDA home such as eagles, deer, elk, and moose.

One thing I love about CDA is the many bakeries around town. I love baked goods and I did not take advantage of the many nearby shops during my first visit, which is something I regret. Bakeries like Woops! Bakeshop, Bakery By The Lake, and Back Pocket Bakery are just a few of my recommendations in this lake town.

The above five activities are simple, take very little time, and can easily be incorporated into any day trip in Coeur d’Alene. These are just a few things that make this Idaho city worth a visit. What other activities would you add to my list? What are some of your favorite things to do in Coeur d’Alene? Let me know by filling out this nomination form.

If you wish to turn your day trip to CDA into an overnight adventure, consider booking a stay at a vacation rental. There are dozens of options in the area but I prefer Airbnbs with lake views like this A-frame cabin with its own sandy beach and private dock.