West Dover, VT – Officials at Mount Snow are planning to replace two fixed-grip chairlifts with high-speed detachable models.nStaffers at the southern Vermont ski and snowboard resort are drafting plans to replace the Summit Local triple chair, built in 1978, with a high-speed six pack. Additionally, the resort wants to replace the Sunbrook Quad, built in 1990, with a high-speed detachable quad.
Both lifts reach the top of the mountain. The Summit Local lift, known to Mount Snow regulars as the “Cripple Triple” due to its long, slow ride, parallels the Grand Summit Express quad. A detachable six pack in its location will provide a second high speed option to carry skiers and riders from base to summit.
The Sunbrook lift, on the mountain’s south face, is home to long, sun-bathed and underutilized blue square runs.
Mount Snow officials decided to move forward with replacing the lifts when they learned that government stimulus funds were available through the Vermont Economic Development Authority. A decision on the ski area’s application for funding is expected next week. The public comment period for the project’s U.S. Forest Service application is now complete, and the ski area will file for Act 250 and town permits to complete the renovation. Should the funding and permitting be approved as expected, the lifts could be in place in time for the 2011-12 ski and snowboard season.