Kootenai Tribe announces economic development project

BONNERS FERRY — The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho has announced the first phase of an economic development project on the 3-mile portion of the Kootenai Indian Reservation. The site is located in Ktunaxa Territory along U.S. 95 and just west of the Boundary County Airport.

“The Tribe is excited about this new economic development project that will benefit both the Tribe, Boundary County and surrounding communities,” said Vice-Chairman Gary Aitken Jr.

The first phase of economic development project consists of an 8,660-square-foot travel center with gas and diesel fueling stations, truck parking and convenience store.

Sonic restaurant will be part of the travel center. Sonic officials and the Tribe have worked closely to bring Sonic’s commitment to quality and service to the area.

Construction is expected to begin spring 2022.

“The Tribe’s economic actions not only bring in money from outside to the area, but also the tax and other revenues stay in the community through the Tribe’s collection of sales taxes and through the Motor Fuels Tax Agreement with the state,” said council member Angela Cooper.

Future phases of the 32-acre portion of the Reservation are in the early planning stages, but may include an additional quick service restaurant, a sit-down restaurant, additional retail or light manufacturing.