This year, arguably more than usual, the title Building The Inland Northwest appears to be particularly applicable. 

As you'll see as you read through our annual publication highlighting the region's largest construction projects, work truly is scattered throughout the region. (All stories are available online as well.)

Our coverage extends deep into northern Kootenai County, where Silverwood Theme Park is working to finish a $15 million expansion at its Boulder Beach Water Park in time for its late spring opening. 

Just over 15 miles down U.S. 95 to the south, another luxury condominium project is coming out of the ground in downtown Coeur d'Alene. About $70 million in living units have been sold already in the planned 18-story structure near Lake Coeur d'Alene. 

Of course, there's no shortage of activity on the Washington side of the state line as well. 

A new section of the North Spokane Corridor opened for the first time in years, and upcoming work on the $1.67 billion project is expected to carry it across the Spokane River, bringing it closer to its ultimate destination at Interstate 90. 

A few blocks from the arterial's path, Jubilant HollisterStier is embarking its next major expansion, a $193 million fourth production line for the Spokane-based pharmaceutical maker. 

Those are just a few examples of the large-scale, future-altering projects that the Journal newsroom has reported in this year's Building The Inland Northwest. Each year, we publish this magazine in an effort to update readers on many of the most significant projects at various stages of development in Spokane and Kootenai counties. Some are nearly finished; others won't start for months. Regardless, all have the potential to provide jobs and improve quality of life in our communities. 

Enjoy these quick-read articles about the new buildings and improved roadways. Learn about how the style and functionality of our region's built environment is changing. 

And as always, thank you for reading the Journal. 

Linn Parish