BONNERS FERRY - A destination casino hotel on the Kootenai River will break ground this week to begin building a new hotel wing.

The Best Western Plus Kootenai River Inn Casino and Spa, owned by the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, will add 36 new rooms with the project, including two deluxe family suites.

"We always want the best experience possible for our guests," said Tribal Chair Jennifer Porter. "That has led to many improvements over the years. Now we'll be excited to welcome people to these beautiful new rooms."

Managed by Hagadone Hospitality of Coeur d'Alene, the property has continued to expand since it first opened in 1986. With the new construction, it will include 101 guest rooms, more than 500 gaming machines in three casinos, the Springs Restaurant and Lounge, and the Kootenai Spa.

The most recent improvement, completed in June 2012, was a major renovation of all riverfront guest rooms, including a new shower and bath design exclusive to the Kootenai Tribe. This design will continue throughout the new wing. The new construction will also upgrade the hotel's laundry and engineering facilities.

The new hotel wing is scheduled for completion in May 2013, with architectural design by Rann Haight Design of Coeur d'Alene, architecture by Longwell + Trapp of Coeur d'Alene, and construction by T.W. Clark of Spokane.

According to Tom Turpin, general manager of the Kootenai River Inn Casino and Spa, the property draws guests from Canada, Idaho, Washington and Montana, as well as summertime travelers.

"The Tribal Council is excited to be able to expand employment during these challenging economic times and create new opportunities for our existing and new team members," Porter said.

Info: www.kootenairiverinn.com or (888) 87-LUCKY.