Copper Mountain, CO – In its first summer under new ownership of Park City, Utah’s Powdr Corp, $6 million will be invested in Copper Mountain this summer to improve the Colorado ski and snowboard resort before lifts reopen next fall.nThe lion’s share of this summer’s investment will be to increase snowmaking capacity by 25 percent to provide better early season coverage for race camps, training, and early season runs. The improvements will be spread throughout the mountain, with new systems being installed in the Timberline area, adding significant intermediate skiing and snowboarding terrain.

Getting to the snow will be easier next winter as well, thanks to a 40 percent increase in free parking in an expanded Corn Lot. Additional parking in Union Creek will ease access to the resort’s beginner terrain. An improved arrival area in Union Creek and The Schoolhouse will make it easier for families to drop off kids for Ski and Ride School Programs.

The improvements are the first phase of Powdr Corp’s plans for its newest acquisition. “The focus on infrastructure enhancements sets the stage for future on mountain improvements,” according to Copper Mountain President and General Manager Gary Rodgers.

Work will now get underway following Sunday’s closure of Copper Mountain for the 2009-10 winter season.