Sandpoint, ID – Idaho’s Schweitzer Mountain Resort in Sandpoint is spending over $1 million in capital improvements for the 2012-13 ski and snowboard season. Projects include doubling the size of the Gourmandie market, remodeling the interior of the Ski and Ride center, replacing the drive and chairs on Musical Chairs, replacing the electrical system on the Great Escape Quad and upgrading lodging amenities.

“We are excited about another round of resort upgrades specifically designed to enhance the overall guest experience,” said Tom Chasse, President and CEO of Schweitzer Mountain Resort. “These improvements will be felt throughout the resort as we continue to evolve ‘The Schweitzer Difference.’”

Schweitzer’s beginner lift, Musical Chairs, is becoming more efficient by installing a new variable speed drive and new chairs with outside bales. The outside bales allow easier loading, especially for beginner skiers, and include a restraining bar. These improvements should increase the upload capacity and create a more user-friendly lift for novice skiers and riders. The high-speed Great Escape Quad’s electrical system is being redesigned and replaced creating a more efficient and reliable lift.

In the village, Schweitzer’s Ski and Ride Center layout is being completely redesigned to enhance the customers experience when renting equipment or booking a lesson. The new floor plan allows guests to seamlessly flow from registration to rental products. The Source retail shop will be moved to the South side of the building. The exterior of the Mill Building received structural upgrades to the frame, new windows, siding, and cosmetically pleasing accents that fall in line with other structures in the Schweitzer village.

The Selkirk and White Pine Lodges, located directly in the Schweitzer village, have completed phase two of room upgrades that include new LCD HD televisions and new media chests in each room. The Selkirk Lodge also received new tables and chairs in each room. Phase one was completed last summer with new bedding.

Gourmandie, the specialty foods market which features fine groceries, craft beers, cheese, and wine, has doubled in size. The larger storefront, located in the White Pine Lodge, includes additional seating to accommodate the growing popularity of its relaxing après scene and wine tastings.

Schweitzer’s Ski and Ride center will have two Surly Pugsley Snowbikes available to rent during the winter season. Snowbikes will be allowed on Schweitzer’s cross-country trail system; however, details on rules and routes have yet to be determined.