COEUR d'ALENE - After nearly four years of re-construction and fundraising, Frontier Ice Arena will host a grand opening on Sept. 8.

Demonstrations during the day include youth hockey, figure skating, curling, broomball and sled hockey. There will be food, tours, and visitors can strap on skates and take a spin on the ice.

Organizers said there may even be a chance to rub elbows with professional hockey and figure skating stars.

"This is what we've all been waiting for," said Tom Murn, Frontier Communication's general manager. "We are excited to see Frontier Ice Arena come to life with sporting activities on the ice for people of all ages."

Last year, Frontier Communications partnered with Kootenai Youth Recreation Organization, the nonprofit that owns and manages the facility, resulting in the new name.

KYRO President Vince Hughes said it was important to host a grand opening to express appreciation to the community for helping reach the $800,000 fundraising goal needed to complete the project.

"A lot of people had a hand in making this dream a reality - and we are all so grateful," says Hughes.

The new rink replaces the old KYRO facility that collapsed under heavy snow loads in 2008.

Features of the 34,000-square-foot, $2.8-million facility include:

* NHL regulation size ice sheet with expansion room for an additional ice sheet in the future

* 5 rink-level and two-mezzanine level, fully appointed locker rooms, each with showers/restroom

* 4,000 square-foot, radiant floor heated lobby/viewing area with tables/seating overlooking the ice sheet and free Wi-Fi access

* Rink-side seating and standing room for 350 spectators, including seating spaces designated for people with disabilities

The rink is at 3525 W. Seltice Way.

The open house is 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.