Work on the Rosenberry Drive levee recertification project has included the construction of 16 trails to improve access to the waterfront.

“With the clearing of some trees along the levee, it provided space to build the trails making it much easier to get down and enjoy the water,” said Coeur d’Alene Street Superintendent Tim Martin.

In addition to the new trails, crews also plan to hydroseed the entire length of Rosenberry Drive this spring between the roadway and water.

In an effort to come into conformance with levee recertification regulations imposed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Army Corps of Engineers required the removal of some trees. Trees are a major concern along levees because they can severely weaken the integrity of the flood protection embankment in the event of a major flood or storm.

The city’s Number One goal with this project is to recertify the levee while keeping as many trees as possible.

Removal of trees and brush will provide a better opportunity for people to enjoy the area, said Kim Harrington of the city’s engineering department “It opened up a lot more usable public space,” she said.