The Dirt: $1 million apartment building going up by Spokane River

A $1 million apartment building is under construction south of the Iron Bridge near Riverwalk Plaza in Spokane.

The two-story complex, at 722 N. Superior St., will have six two-bedroom units with patios facing the Spokane River, said developer Mark Baier. He is developing it with Riverwalk Plaza co-owners Gavin Swenson and Dave Birg.

Baier said the group has long planned to build on the property near the river and Centennial Trail. However, a lengthy shoreline permit process, and then the recession, stretched out the timeline, he said.

Build Smart Northwest is the contractor for the 8,400-square-foot project. It’s expected to open in the fall, Baier said, and Riverwalk will handle its management. Later, the units likely will be converted from rentals into condos, he said.

Riverwalk owners also could build a second, same-size apartment building on the property but plan to hold off on that project for now, Baier said.

Business to feature puzzle-locked room

Escape Entertainment has leased 3,000 square feet at 7456 N. Division St., in the Cascade Plaza.

The business, tentatively set to open July 10, will offer groups a way to solve puzzles in a themed, locked room for one hour. People must use different elements from their surroundings to unlock clues and eventually escape.

Co-owner Jerry Jensen said the business will open with one themed room, but eventually it could have up to three rooms. He is working with business partner Kristin Jensen, who isn’t related.

The cost is $28 a person or $199 for a group. Bookings are available for birthday parties, family events and businesses.

Brian Anderson and Jim Orcutt, both of NAI Black, handled the transaction.

Amplified Wax purchases space

Amplified Wax LLC, a Spokane recording studio, has purchased a Spokane warehouse at 314 E. Pacific Ave., with plans to remodel it for a move later this year from the Garland District.

Amplified Wax bought the 2,400-square-foot structure for $155,000, said Jimmy Hill, who co-owns the business with his wife, Mandy Hill. He said an additional $60,000 likely will go toward building updates to create four small recording booths, a mixing and control room, and a large live room to record bands, choirs and orchestral groups.

The couple now lease at 920 W. Garland Ave. Amplified also offers a marketing and advertising division that sells business merchandising products. Mandy Hill is a graphic designer.

Treva Lind