Locals oppose new Canadian ski resort

A proposal for a new ski resort in Canada’s British Columbia is generating criticism from the local community.

The development, Garibaldi at Squamish, is a proposed new resort near the town of Squamish, with the capacity to hold 15,000 skiers in a 1,850 hectare area. The proposed resort will have a vertical drop of 1,215 metres (3,986 feet) with 3 gondolas and 17 chairlifts. During the summer, its planned to attract visitors with two golf courses along with hiking and biking activities.

While the development could be a boon for the area it is being met with opposition by some in the district. In a recent town hall meeting residents cited environmental concerns of the development, and that the local services of public transport, hospitals, and fire protection is already strained.

The area surrounding the resort is well known for its salmon streams, and grizzly bear habitat. The critics have set up an online petition to voice their concerns about the development project.

An assessment of the resort isn’t expected to be completed before the end of the year. If successful the resort wouldn’t start construction of the 15-year project until 2011.

Click here to see a PDF of the resort plans.

Posted by Brendon on July 9th, 2009 in Canada and Garibaldi at Squamish

Brendon @cherrypow

Hi, I'm Brendon, editor and one of the co-founders of CherryPow. When work isn't calling I'm planning the next snow adventure and writing about it.