Local UI campus packed with activity

SANDPOINT — It’s looking to be a sunny summer for those invested in the University of Idaho’s local property.

What was once an extraneous piece of real estate for the university will likely take on new life this summer thanks to some groundwork laid last year. According to Charles Buck, who manages the university’s North Idaho facilities, the property located on North Boyer Avenue will be abuzz of activity this summer between athletic competitions, disc golf and more.

“What it really comes down to is this is a beautiful downtown natural resource, and we want to use it,” he said.

Originally, the property was intended to house a complete extension campus for the University of Idaho. However, during the 2006-2007 period, the project fell through, leaving the real estate’s fate up in the air.

That uncertain period is over, Buck said. The property will likely be attracting hundreds this summer for recreational purposes, and University of Idaho officials have even higher hopes for the future.

Some residents may have already visited the site to test their skill on the Vandal, an 18-hole disc golf course established last year. By any measure, the course is a bargain at $1 for an afternoon of fun. According to Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce director Kate McAlister, the course is ranked at four out of five stars by Disc Golf Course Review, and a league has already sprung up around it.

“The course brought in about $300 a week last summer, and I expect it will double or triple that this year,” Buck said.

A cyclo-cross course has also been established at the site. The racing event, which Buck describes as “a form of self-imposed torture,” involves a series of obstacles that a bicyclist must traverse, often dismounting and carrying his or her bike over unforgiving terrain. A race later this year will likely bring in visitors from around the region.

“People will be coming in from Spokane and other areas to take part in this,” Buck said.

Last year, the university struck up a partnership with the Sandpoint Folk School, bringing an educational component back to the property. The folk school teaches hands-on activities like blacksmithing and agriculture, encouraging students to bring a little more do-it-yourself in their lives.

As for the future of the property, only time will tell its potential. Last year, the university sent senior students in architecture studies to draft designs for affordable housing, a technology park and a university extension building. Officials have also been in talks with local advocates over the possible establishment of a community center with an ice rink and more at the site.

“We’re dedicated to using our resources and working with all of you to make the most of this,” Buck said.