On Monday, January 23, 2017 Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a new $20 million project to create state-of-the-art skiing, lodging, dining, and year-round activities at Gore and Whiteface Mountains.
According to a press release, the investments are intended to both enhance current facilities and create new opportunities to further develop on- and off-season tourism.
This $20 million investment is the first major upgrade to both Gore and Whiteface in 30 years. The investment is intended to build on current facilities and create an “unparalleled tourism destination for visitors in the North Country.”
“Winter tourism is a key driver of the North Country economy and we have made it a top priority to leverage natural assets in the region to increase visitors, create jobs and spur economic growth,” said Cuomo. “This investment will transform these resorts into year-round, world-class skiing destinations, and attract new skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.”
Many modern ski resorts are shifting focus away from attracting visitors who just want to hit the slopes. Skiing destinations like those in the Alps or Rockies – or even across state lines in Vermont – are offering upscale amenities, conveniences, and year-round attractions. The state’s investment will go toward substantial improvements to the day lodge facilities at Gore and Whiteface to make them globally competitive.
The $20 million investment is also expected to spur growth and investment in the areas surrounding the ski mountains. Improvements will increase revenue and attendance at the facilities, driving economic growth and private investment in local communities.
Planned improvements at Gore Mountain
- Expanding seating capacity and modernizing the Saddle Lodge’s facilities and infrastructure;
- Adding a third story to the Base Lodge – building corporate meeting room space, additional seating and customer amenities, and expanding the rental shop in the Northwoods Lodge; and
- Restoring the original 1967 gondola unloading station into a Gore summit warming facility and overlook.
Planned improvements at Whiteface Mountain
- Expanding the Bear Den Lodge and adding a state-of-the-art learning center, bar and restaurant;
- Expanding and renovating the Adirondack Base Lodge and parking lot;
- Installing a line connecting the Bear Den Learning Center area to the Mid Station;
- Building one of the longest zip lines in North America; and
- Building the longest mountain coaster in the United States.
Love skiing and snowboarding? Discover the best slopes in the Adirondacks >>
Source:
- https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-20-million-major-upgrades-gore-and-whiteface-mountains
