Whistler Blackcomb plans 200 bed development

Vail Resorts has announced a plan to build more housing for Whistler Blackcomb staff.

Plans are in the works to build a 200-bed development on Glacier Lane, adjacent to the Whistler Blackcomb Operations building.

Whistler Blackcomb COO Pete Sonntag says they recognize housing is a critical issue in Whistler, and a very real day-to-day problem for many staff; “Vail Resorts wants to be a part of the solution. I am very pleased to put this plan in place, and to know we are harnessing the momentum of our summer build out on the hill to make our contribution on a very challenging community issue in the valley”.

The company currently houses 31% of their workforce, both in buildings it owns and units it sources in the community. The new development would bring its full complement of staff housing up to ensure that over a third of Whistler Blackcomb’s workforce is housed by the company.

According to a news release the development known as ‘Glacier 8’ would offer easy access to transit and sits within walking distance of the Excalibur Gondola. Rent will fall well below market rate, in line with other staff housing options. The rent for Glacier Lane’s current staff housing complex is calculated at $12.65 per night, for a minimum 14 day stay. Glacier 8 will be 100% dedicated to housing Whistler Blackcomb staff, targeting seasonal and seasonal-returning staff.

Sonntag says they plan to move as quickly as possible on the project; “realistically its probably going to be next spring before we have shovels in the ground”. The project will next have to go before Whistler council for rezoning of the land.