Just after 1 am on Tuesday, February 11, a structure fire broke out in downtown Sandpoint, Idaho. The fire spread quickly and ruthlessly. When the blaze was finally extinguished, the historic brick building was destroyed and another was significantly damaged.
Losing any building that houses businesses in a small town is terrible, but this loss was especially tragic. Built over 100 years ago, the building sits at the corner of North First Avenue and Bridge Street, arguably the epicenter of Sandpoint. In the summer months, traffic clogs this intersection as locals and tourists alike head east on Bridge Street to access City Beach, the iconic white sand beach on Lake Pend Oreille.
Five business within the building were also completely destroyed by the fire:
The Hound, Headlines Salon, China Kitchen, the Chocolate Bear candy shop, and Sandpoint Tattoo.
Making matters worse, the winter weather brought approximately 2 inches of snow and below freezing temperatures. Snow continued to fall throughout the week, adding to the already thick snowpack.
But Sandpoint is a town of support and resilience. Local businesses and citizens were quick to offer support and assistance including A Go Fund Me page, an auction, and spaces to work.
It is uncertain what will become of this popular spot. The destroyed building will be demolished due to damage from the fire, but its hard to say what will take its place. We can hope that whatever it is will serve this much-loved location well.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
References:
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2019/feb/11/multiple-buildings-destroyed-in-downtown-sandpoint/
https://bonnercountydailybee.com/local_news/20190212/fire_guts_downtown_buildings