Kellogg tries to revitalize uptown, find new home for library

KELLOGG —  What community hubs or businesses would you like to see grow in uptown Kellogg? 

During a virtual presentation Wednesday through the Western Community Assessment Network, some pending projects for uptown Kellogg were outlined.

Concerns over vacant buildings with crumbling infrastructure has been a major concern for Paige Olsen since she became executive director of the Silver Valley Economic Development Corporation three years ago.  

“We have a rich history in mining, and obviously with that comes the ebbs and flows of the economy. So when the mines are booming, so is the economy. And unfortunately, in the 80s, we had a significant downturn in the mining industry,” Olsen said. 

A project adding ski chairs has added identifying features to the area while emphasizing the town's role as a ski town. 

“We don't want it to be like an Aspen or a Breckenridge or, you know, Sun Valley for that matter, but it has to be sustainable,” Olsen said. 

Economic recovery fellow Darya Pilram has also been a helpful addition to Olsen’s efforts to enact results in finding creative solutions. 

“We're doing the good work,” Olsen said, but often it has come down to connecting with the right business owner who is willing to stay in the area and help sustain Kellogg. 

Olsen said some University of Idaho students created 3D renderings for a capstone project. 

Led by professor Rula Awwad Rafferty, the project helps take stock of what exists and envisions what could be based on the current assets of several buildings.

“We're actually starting to see some promising connections and progress going toward potentially doing things with these buildings,” Olsen said. 

Olsen is now trying to find a more permanent home for the Kellogg Public Library and has found a lead in a building that was purchased five years ago at a foreclosure auction.     

The library officially closed Wednesday to transition to its a temporary location at 10 E. Station Ave. The location isn’t big enough, so they will be looking for better options. 

    Olsen