Whistler Blackcomb has revealed what they call the largest and most exciting investment in the history of their company.
With goals of becoming a “weather independent” resort, Blackcomb plans to invest $345 million to building more year-round attractions for non-skiers and residents. The news comes shortly after the $3.5 billion Squamish resort took another step towards reality.
Dubbed as the “Renaissance”, the project will be split into three phases to enhance weather-independent experiences, on-mountain improvements and real estate developments with the visions of becoming the number one mountain resort in the world to play, to work and to invest.
The company believes the investments will enhance their reputation as one of the world’s greatest four-season mountain resorts to work and play.
Phase One: $90 – $100 million
- New mountain adventure experiences
- 163,000 square foot Watershed with waterslides on Blackcomb’s upper base
- New high-speed lift to replace the Magic Chair
- A year-round mountain coaster, a tree-top ropes course, and ATV and snowmobile activities for kids
- New snow school learning zones, a night skiing zone, and enhanced snowmaking on Blackcomb Mountain
- Major improvements to Whistler Blackcomb’s existing sightseeing, hiking and mountain biking experiences
Phase Two: $105 – $115 million
- New day lodge and snow school facility within the Watershed indoor adventure center on Blackcomb Mountain
- Two-storey parking complex at Blackcomb’s upper Base II area
- Development and sale of approximately 60 high-end, ski-in ski-out townhomes near the Watershed, totaling approximately 160,000 net saleable square feet
Phase Three: $140 – $150 million
- Major revitalization of Blackcomb’s base area in the Upper Village
- Transform Blackcomb’s base area into a vibrant, upscale village community
- Major on-mountain improvements such as lift improvements and the development of an indoor action sports training facility designed to expand the Company’s youth development programs in skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking.
While the plans sound exciting, the project still requires approval from the municipal and provincial governments, along with a nod of approval from the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations.
What are your thoughts on the investments? Anything you’d change or like to add? Let us know in the comments below.