Idaho casino resort announces major expansion

The seventh major expansion, and the largest expansion yet, will add 105 hotel rooms, casino space, gourmet dining, a spa and other facilities both indoor and out at the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, Idaho. Tribal leaders and resort officials gathered last week to announce details of the massive effort, the current phase to be complete by 2011.

The 105 hotel rooms, with a fitness center, will require two new wings, offering views of Circling Raven Golf Club (circlingraven.com), area wetlands and the rolling Palouse grasslands and fields. The “destination level” Spa, which will be located in the new hotel facilities, will cover 15,000 square feet. Fine dining will include a gourmet steakhouse and restaurant. A vast “front yard” will rise to the south of the main building, offering a natural amphitheater for concerts and other outdoor events.

“Our guests can expect something very special here,” said Chief Executive Officer Dave LaSarte-Meeks. “Years of planning have gone into what we believe will be a unique, luxury destination resort. But it will always continue to cater to guests from all walks of life. We are truly expanding the experience for all who come here.”

A promenade, stretching east and west from one end of the parking area to the other, will cross in front of the casino and hotel buildings, creating a walking area and entrances into various venues. Both parking lots will be wooded, extending southward across what was once U.S. Highway 95 and wrapping around either side of the “front yard” facilities.

Construction costs are estimated at $75 million. All new facilities are designed by Mithun Architects of Seattle. The Mithun design is in concert with plans for “going green” at the resort and is done with a goal of being awarded LEED certification. The design not only incorporates the natural environment and habitat. Everything possible is being done to ensure that the project is environmentally friendly, including the uses of “clean” products, recycled products and keen sensitivities to nature. Mithun has received much national recognition for the company’s commitment to environmentally sensitive building.

By early 2010, the resort will have a new water treatment facility on line, putting an end to existing holding ponds and providing us with water that can be recycled for irrigation and other uses.

For more information visit cdacasino.com.