VAIL, Colorado — The Vail Corporation has applied for a building permit with the town of Vail for its North Day Lot employee housing project located in Lionshead.

The project, which the corporation is calling “First Chair,” is part of the company's commitment to build employee housing in conjunction with its Arrabelle project, which opened in 2008.

The employee housing project is designed by Oz Architects. Mauriello Planning Group is providing land planning consultation, and R.A. Nelson & Associates is overseeing pre-construction services. The 124-bed, four-story structure, located on the southern end of the pedestrian bridge that crosses Interstate 70, includes parking, nine skier drop-off spaces and new snow-melted pedestrian walkways along the south and east sides of the project.

Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2010, and when finished in 2011, the three- and four-bedroom units will be used to house seasonal and year-round employees.

“First Chair is a name that directly reflects one of the many experiences unique to our resort offerings,” said Mark Gasta, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for Vail Resorts. “Residents of our newest employee housing, First Chair, will have the opportunity to watch the sun rise and experience first tracks as they head to the 'office.'”