RATHDRUM - Rathdrum is taking a renewed interest in economic development opportunities.

That was a theme Thursday during Mayor Vic Holmes' State of the City address to the Rathdrum Area Chamber of Commerce at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

The city recently formed an Economic Development Committee to explore how Rathdrum can become a vibrant area.

"We thought it was time," Holmes told about 75 people at the luncheon. "We want to do what we can to create new business."

The topic of exploring economic development options drew interest from multiple attendees.

Former Rathdrum Mayor Jim Parker wondered when Highway 41 on the south end of Rathdrum will be upgraded, because that has been discussed for years.

"The biggest asset to any community is access," said Parker, adding that Rathdrum seems to have been bypassed for services over the years.

Holmes said it was discussed at a recent Kootenai Metropolitan Planning Organization meeting about how Rathdrum, Hayden and Post Falls should jointly petition the Idaho Transportation Department to try to expedite Highway 41 improvements due to the dire need.

"ITD has said it would give us a list of what's affordable right now, so we'll see where that goes," Holmes said. "We're 7 miles from Interstate 90, but when you drive it, it feels like 100 miles."

Kevin Sharrai, general manager of the Twin Lakes Village Golf Club and a member of the Economic Development Committee, said the committee will focus on having community groups collaborate on projects for the common good.

"We want to work together to put the shine on Rathdrum," he said. "Let's help each other out."

Sharrai said connecting bike trails needs to be a part of the equation to expand recreation opportunities.

Holmes said construction of the new bridge that connects Highway 41 with Highway 53 is expected to be completed in July.

Holmes hoped to report that the city's longtime access hurdles to its 557 acres on Rathdrum Mountain would be cleared up, but that announcement won't happen until at least March 19.

Wednesday's hearing before the Post Falls Highway District, intended to validate that Barrett Drive is a county road, was postponed until next month.

The city hopes to create low-impact recreational opportunities on the mountain that would attract people to Rathdrum. After the access issue is resolved, the city will seek public input on amenities.

"Everyone I've taken up there has said, 'We've got to have this,'" Holmes said.

Other highlights of Holmes' address included:

* The addition of pedestrian-activated beacons to increase safety at crosswalks along Highway 41 (five more will be added this year).

* Rathdrum's population grew 2.8 percent last year to 7,151 (68 new homes added).

* Crime against people decreased 28 percent, crime against property 24 percent and crime against society 3 percent.

* The police department became the 16th in Idaho to receive accreditation through the Idaho Chiefs of Police Association by complying with 94 professional standards.

* The city's new rathdrum.org website is expected to be running today.

* Volunteers donated about 7,200 hours toward community projects last year.

* The formation of an Emergency Preparedness Committee.

* NerdWallet, a consumer advocacy website, named Rathdrum one of the best towns in Idaho for young families.