IDAHO FALLS, Idaho -- After two years, an event center makes another step towards becoming a reality in Idaho Falls.

The latest plan was unveiled Tuesday; the idea is to build the multi-million dollar facility on pioneer road along I-15.

The Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce wants to make it part of Snake River Landing.

Idaho Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Bob Everhart said it could cost as much as $35 million.

If everything goes according to plan, construction could begin next summer.

In a press conference, city leaders said they are in talks to bring a semi-professional hockey team to anchor the facility.

They want to make the events center multi purpose with enough room to hold conferences and major events.

"We think it will be a great project for the community. The most of the people I talk with, by far, are in support of having an event center here. I think it can add to our quality of life. I think it can add to our economic development," said Everhart.

The big question is funding. Private sponsors are said to have stepped forward and the city is applying for grants.

A majority of money may come from hotel taxes.

The Chamber is looking to turn Idaho Falls into an auditorium district, after a public vote.

This would tax hotels up to five percent to pay for the event center.

AmeriTel Hotels Owner Chuck Everett said an auditorium district would tax visitors out of Idaho Falls.

“Raising the hotel tax will chase people down the road,” said Everett.

The event center needs 3,000 signatures on a petition for the issue to be voted on.

Everhart said the public could vote on the issue as early as August.