Carousel, arise!

COEUR d'ALENE — A dream to bring the joy of experiencing the Playland Pier carousel to a new generation took one step closer to reality Wednesday as crews began installing the carousel’s framework.

"The community has been waiting for so long, and to have it finally happen is just exciting," said Cari Fraser of the Coeur d'Alene Carousel Foundation. "It's on its way and it's going to be the centerpiece of the new Four Corners area."

The carousel is next to Memorial Field, just north of City Park. Construction crews will use a crane to install a cupola — a dome that will adorn the roof of the carousel building — this morning. Once that portion of the project is completed, Fraser said subcontractors will start work on the building itself.

The carousel first opened in the summer of 1942 on the beach in Coeur d'Alene and is now in storage, fully restored and ready for operation. Sponsors have committed funds to help the foundation with the estimated $450,000 needed to restore and relocate the carousel to its new, permanent home.

The foundation, Fraser added, expects the carousel to be open for full-time business next spring. She also hopes the foundation can host a preview event to show residents and supporters how the carousel will look and operate.

Fraser added the foundation is still in fundraising mode, focused on getting individuals and businesses to purchase a personalized porcelain tile for the floor of the building. The tiles, which come in three sizes, can have messages etched on them. Prices range from $250 to $1,100.

"They will tell the story of the carousel and the community," Fraser said.

Donation information: www.cdacarousel.com or call 765-2435