Vernon, NJ – Construction workers are busy this summer installing a new Sojourn double chairlift to once again connect the New Jersey ski and snowboard resort’s two base areas, South Peak and South Peak.

Guests have been forced to ride a shuttle bus between the two sections of the resort since the old Sojourn chairlift was removed in 2010 and a new ski run built to carry riders from South Peak to Granite Peak, Mountain Creek’s middle summit. Visitors, however, had no way to return to South Peak without first descending to the base of North Peak and boarding a bus.

Plans to replace the 40-year-old lift, however, were delayed. While the resort’s owners spent $20 million last summer constructing the 50,000 square-foot Mountain Creek Lodge, the Sojourn lift line remained empty.

The new lift, another fixed grip double chairlift, is finally going in this summer. The new chair will follow the same lift line, connecting South Peak and Granite Peak, along Southern Sojourn Trail.

Construction is expected to be completed in time for the 2012-13 ski and snowboard season.