YOUR AD HERE »

Support for ski resort sprinkled with concerns

J.K. Perry
Bret Hartman/Daily file photoMinturn residents see the economic potential in a proposed private ski resort south of town, but say they're worried about traffic and environmental harm.
ALL |

MINTURN ” While many residents seem to support the Ginn Company’s plans for a private ski resort south of town, some are worried the project will make traffic worse and harm wildlife near Battle Mountain.

Main Street resident Nancy Hassett said she supports the project, which also includes a golf course and luxury homes, because it could be a boon to Minturn’s future. Still, she is worried resort residents and construction workers will cause traffic congestion on Highway 24, the only road through town, she said.

“What are we going to do with the cars? I’m wondering how this place is going to be accessed on a two-lane road,” she said. “We have houses that sit feet off the highway. I’ll have no problem asking (Ginn) how it’s going to work and make sure the proper studies are done to make sure it’s positive.”



Ginn Company officials said they understand the project will impact Minturn. Studies have been commissioned ” including one on traffic ” and the finding will play a role in planning the resort.

The company formally submitted nine petitions on Thursday to annex more than 4,300 acres of Battle Mountain land into Minturn. Portions of the land would be used for 1,700 housing units and private ski area and golf course, officials have said.

Support Local Journalism



Elvira Gustafson, a lifelong Minturn resident and mother of two boys, said the Ginn Company expand the town’s library and build a park, basketball courts or other recreational facilities for kids.

Her family probably won’t be able to afford to play at the proposed golf course unless there’s a discounted rate, she said.

“We all want to better our community,” she said. “Our kids need a recreation center instead of riding their bikes up and down the street in traffic. I want Ginn to help our community.”

Gustafson will attend upcoming public hearings on the resort with like-minded friends to tell the councilmen what the town needs, she said.

Kris Wyatt, who lives on the south end of Minturn, said she has mixed feelings about the project. She said the town could benefit economically, but the project could also interfere with migrating elk.

“If there are problems I’ll speak up,” at the hearings, Wyatt said. “I think Ginn has been straight forward and honest to the town and is a reputable businessman.”

Minturn officials scheduled a hearing on Dec. 7 to begin the annexation process. Public hearings could begin in February, town officials said.

“This is a significant amount of land to include within the town and the process will provide opportunities for assessing the impacts, costs and benefits to the town,” Town Manager Ann Capela said.

Staff Writer J.K. Perry can be reached at 949-0555, ext. 14622, or jkperry@vaildaily.com.

Vail, Colorado


Support Local Journalism