SAR grant to aid ‘Rewild the Playground’ project

The Selkirk Association of Realtors is using a $7,500 Placemaking Grant from the National Association of Realtors to help transform unused space in Kootenai into a vibrant, destination for community use, enjoyment, and educational space for elementary school students.

The grant was designed by NAR to ensure local real estate associations are partnering with other neighboring organizations to plan, organize, implement and maintain lighter, quicker, cheaper placemaking projects in their communities. With this project, the Selkirk Association of Realtors is partnering with Kaniksu Land Trust, Lake Pend Oreille School District, United Way of North Idaho, Bonner County Native Plant Society, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the University of Idaho.

The grant funds will help create about 2,150 feet of ADA-assessable nature trail, bring in gravel, install culverts and build boardwalks in wet areas. Other partners on the project will design the project, clear pathways, build outdoor class space and landscape the areas to be used.

“Realtors live, work and volunteer in their communities and take immense pride in our work to make our neighborhoods better places to live, work and raise a family,” Stephanie Rief, SAR association executive, said. “This grant gives us a tangible, immediate opportunity to identify and address areas in Bonner County that are in need of enhancement and revitalization and can be used for the greater good. Placemaking can help foster healthier, more social and economically viable communities, and creates places where people feel a strong stake in their neighborhoods and are committed to making things better.” 

NAR offers Placemaking Grants to state and local real estate associations around the country to create new public spaces and destinations in a community, such as turning a parking spot into a people spot (parklet) or a vacant lot into a pocket park or garden. 

“As the Kootenai area becomes more attractive and welcoming, with enhanced educational experiences for school-aged children, nearby properties may also increase in value,” Rief said.