A host of improvements and renovations are underway at the Ruby River Hotel, at 700 N. Division on Spokane's North Bank. 

Four rooms are currently being revamped into two large extended-stay suites including kitchens and full-size refrigerators to accommodate travelers visiting the area for week-long stays, says Dan Zimmerer, president of Ruby Hospitality’s hotel division.

Ruby Hospitality, a trade name for Spokane-based GVD Hospitality Management Services Inc., is also in the process of renovating and updating its outdoor facilities and entertainment, he says. In the eastern courtyard facing the Spokane River, a pool is being renovated and enlarged into an infinity pool overlooking the river. The pool is expected to be completed by early summer and will be heated year-round, Zimmerer says.

“The infinity pool is so nice and a big investment,” Zimmerer says. “Its design makes it look like it is fading into the Spokane River.”

Additionally, two fire pits and a year-round hot tub are being added to the eastern courtyard with additional infrastructure and plumbing to be installed to accommodate possible future additions, he says.

Spokane-based Mauer Construction Inc. is the contractor on both the interior and exterior renovations, Zimmerer says. Palouse, Washington-based Hoist LLC is the architect for the suite remodels, and Spokane-based Bernardo Wills Architects PC is designing the outdoor facilities, he says.

Zimmerer declines to disclose a project value.

Ruby Hospitality is constantly looking for ways to improve and update its facilities,Zimmerer says of the need for improvements. Ongoing renovations at Ruby River Hotel are in line with the company's vision, however, some of the improvements have been prompted by an increase in sports tourism and corporate travelers looking for a place to stay for an extended period of time that would allow them to feel more at home, rather than dining out for every meal. The pool — an extremely popular attracti during the summer — and has naturally reached its end of life, he adds.

As reported by the Journal, Spokane Sports contributes $92.6 million in annual business sales; supports 589 jobs in the hospitality, retail, and transportation industries; and generates $8.4 million in annual state and local taxes.