POST FALLS - The Post Falls Senior Center expansion will make progress this year thanks to a $150,000 Idaho Community Development Block Grant.

"This is huge," said Alison McArthur, the center's executive director. "If we hadn't gotten this, we would have had to wait for construction until next year (on the construction project) during the next grant cycle."

The grant, awarded through the city of Post Falls, was one of 19 statewide announced on Tuesday by Gov. Butch Otter to benefit economic development and help establish or add to community centers.

"It's amazing to see all of the growth and development that communities across Idaho are pursuing," Otter said. "The state of Idaho is pleased to help them pursue the infrastructure necessary to attract new businesses and serve our citizens."

All grant awards are reviewed and recommended by the Idaho Economic Advisory Council and final approval is granted by Otter. The grant program is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The city of Post Falls supported the senior center project, held a public hearing and acts as a conduit for the grant funds to reach the senior center.

"The only thing that it cost the city was a little time," Mayor Ron Jacobson said. "The grant allows the senior center to make improvements necessary to provide services to our senior citizens. It was a natural for us to get involved."

The senior center must pay $187,000 in matching funds to make the $387,000 expansion project a reality. McArthur said nearly $40,000 has been raised through fundraisers and donations, leaving the senior center to take out a $147,000 loan. The center is also seeking sponsorships and donations to reduce the loan amount.

The expansion includes extending the front entry 18 feet with a covered area and adding to the north side of the building with a computer resource room and activities area.

"We're out of space and trying to prepare for our next generation of seniors," McArthur said.

She said the construction project is expected to go out to bid in the next two weeks. Construction will start on July 1 with a groundbreaking ceremony. Completion of the project is expected in mid- to late October.

Miller Stauffer Architects is the project architect.

The middle section of the senior center was built in 1978, the back section 1993 and the Dougall Room in 1996.