RATHDRUM, Idaho — Rathdrum has become one of Idaho’s fastest-growing cities, joining Post Falls and Moyie Springs at the top of the state’s growth charts. Census data shows more than 3,300 people have moved to Rathdrum since 2020, with nearly 1,000 arriving just last year.
This growth began during COVID and is changing the North Idaho community. The locals aren’t that excited about it.
Logan Casey, who has lived in Rathdrum since 2009, has seen farmland turn into housing developments.
“Now it’s getting big, big, big, and they want to do more,” Casey said. “I used to buck hay on those fields down there, then boom shakalakah that field is gone.”
While more people means more business opportunities, locals say the infrastructure can’t keep up. Problems include heavy traffic, few sidewalks, and limited housing. Another thing missing: the small town charm.
“You go to the Super 1 and people don’t want to have a chat with you anymore,” Casey said.
The city council seems to be listening. This week, they voted 3-1 against a new housing project that would have added 500 homes. Locals called this decision a win.
Most residents use septic tanks, and the city relies on Post Falls for wastewater treatment. If growth continues, locals say Rathdrum will need to address sewage treatment.
North Idaho remains popular for relocating families, with Rathdrum now in the spotlight. The city must balance growth with maintaining the qualities that made it attractive in the first place.
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