SANDPOINT - Brick by brick, Panhandle State Bank's Sandpoint Center has grown into a 94,000-square-foot banking supercenter. Monday, the building will officially open its doors to the public for its first day of business.

Construction crews spent nearly two years on the project, and those who are closest to it are ready to finally call the building home.

“I'm extremely excited and proud that the bank has been able to accomplish this and give something back to the community,” said Panhandle State Bank vice president Travis Kaul. “To finally see the end and open the doors to show people what we've been working on is amazing.”

While the bank doesn't officially open until Monday, several departments have already transitioned into the new building, leaving only 25 employees from the home loan center and branch to make the one-block trip to the new facilities.

Kaul said staff members have been counting down the days and are anxious to make the move.

“There's a lot of excitement from the staff to get into the new location. The technology's so much better over there and we're not so cramped,” Kaul said.

The bank's information technology department has been in the new building for nearly two months honing the new operating systems to insure that no glitches come up on day one.

Kaul said all systems have been checked and rechecked, and he is confident that the bank will make a smooth transition to its new headquarters.

No events are planned for Monday, but on Friday the bank will celebrate its 27th anniversary by inviting residents to come over to tour the facilities and enjoy hot dogs and ice cream floats.

“We're anticipating that a lot of people will come to see the new location and we're excited to show it off, to show our customers and the community,” Kaul said.