Mobility coordination in North Idaho moves forward

SANDPOINT — Public transportation will be front and center Thursday when area residents meet to discuss strategies for creating a flourishing transportation system in North Idaho.

Following a successful introductory meeting in December, North Idaho is moving ahead with organization of its local mobility management network. Individuals also are being sought for the district coordination council, said Susan Kiebert, local district mobility coordinator.

LMMN members will be tasked with outlining the services, needs, strategies and priorities for public transportation in their local area. The council will consider how the two North Idaho networks connect at their borders in a way that complements both networks' respective systems and plans, Kiebert said. The council also will evaluate proposed projects for funding.

"Despite the unfavorable weather, we are hoping to have persons interested in mobility in Bonner or Boundary counties attend our first meeting so that we can complete the organization of this local link and move ahead with the development of the mobility plan for this area," Kiebert said.

The meeting is set for Thursday, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the auditorium of Panhandle State Bank's Financial and Technical Center.

The first hour of the meeting will cover the detailed description of the network so those interested can fully understand the roles and responsibilities of membership.

Nominations for district council membership will also be accepted at this time, followed by the local mobility planning workshop, led by consultant firm KFH Group, Inc. Retained by ITD, the consultants will assist communities in completing coordination plans for their area.

For more information or to participate in the process, contact Kiebert at 265-0897 or by e-mail at tio@sandpoint.net.