Dalton Gardens, Idaho — City That Wanted to Keep Its Elbow Room

Dalton Gardens sits immediately north of Coeur d'Alene, surrounded by one of Idaho's fastest-growing urban areas.

Its roots are agricultural. Orchards and larger parcels gradually became residential, but residents incorporated in 1960 without embracing the density usually associated with becoming a city.

That choice still shapes Dalton Gardens. Commercial activity is concentrated mainly along Government Way, while interior neighborhoods retain larger lots, mature trees and a semi-rural feel unusual this close to Coeur d'Alene.

Hayden and Coeur d'Alene press against the boundaries, making the contrast increasingly obvious.

Dalton Gardens is not low-density because development forgot to arrive. Low density is part of what the city has repeatedly tried to preserve—an incorporated community whose civic ambition includes leaving some room between the houses.