The Dirt: Land acquired next to Northern Quest Resort allows for future expansion

The Kalispel Tribal Economic Authority has new elbow room in Airway Heights — 22.6 acres of vacant land, purchased late last year, adjacent to the north side of its Northern Quest Resort and Casino property.

While KTEA officials say they have no immediate plans for the parcels, the land provides options for planning. KTEA spent $5.8 million for two parcels bought Nov. 17 from a Spokane entity, Anonymous Bidder No. 968 LLC.

“We’re always looking for available property nearby,” said KTEA spokeswoman Julie Holland. “Right now, we don’t have any immediate plans. Obviously, it gives us something to keep in mind when we consider future expansion.”

The land is next to Hayford Road and just east of the Spokane County Raceway. Jim Quigley, of Kiemle & Hagood, represented the buyer.

Also in Airway Heights, the Spokane Tribe broke ground in November for its casino, with plans to open for business within 10 months. The first phase for property on U.S. Highway 2 is scheduled as a $40 million casino with 450 slot machines and 12 game tables, two restaurants and an outdoor plaza.

Over the next decade, plans call for a $400 million casino resort branded under the Hard Rock Hotel banner.

Design phase starts for UI’s Idaho Arena

The University of Idaho has approval to move forward on the planning and design phase of its proposed Idaho Arena, a 4,700-seat facility to house Vandal court sports and university events.

The Idaho State Board of Education approved the next phase of the project at a recent meeting.

The $30 million project is more than halfway to its fundraising goal, which includes financial support from students, alumni and corporations. As fundraising continues, UI will move to secure the architects and builders needed for a wood-engineered facility.

Apartment complex to be built on Mission

The city of Spokane has issued building permits for construction of a multifamily complex, Riverview Lofts, with 80 units on Mission Avenue east of the Spokane River.

With a $12 million estimated value, the project at 1601 E. Mission next to Riverton Avenue is designed with four apartment buildings, each with three stories atop a basement. A clubhouse and garages will be built as well.

Copper Basin Construction is the contractor for project owner Riverton LLC, of Hayden.

Riverview Lofts Building 1 is designed with 40 units. The second building will have 24 units, the third 12 units and the fourth structure would add four units.

Spokane Valley senior housing planned

A $15.2 million, 132-unit senior apartment complex is scheduled to be built in Spokane Valley.

River House II Senior Living, at 16807 E. Mission Parkway, received building permit approval.

Enjoy The River LLC, of Scottsdale, Arizona, is the project owner, while Katerra Construction, also of Scottsdale, is the contractor. Bernardo Willis Architects, of Spokane, did the design work.

Mortgage firm relocates

Guild Mortgage is leasing in the Rock Pointe Corporate Center Tower.

The mortgage services company secured the 2,500-square-foot space, at 316 W. Boone Ave., for a move.

Erik Nelson and Craig Soehren, of Kiemle & Hagood, assisted with the transaction.