Green Peak Construction Continues as Ski Season Approaches

Green Peak Construction Continues as Ski Season Approaches

Trail, snowmaking, and lift projects are ongoing.

Monday, November 7, 2016, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com

On the eve of the election and ski season, the aggressive Green Peak expansion project continues to move forward at Waterville Valley.

Concrete has been poured for the Green Peak lift terminal footings, as well as the top three tower footings. The remainder of the tower footing forms are in place or staged nearby. The World Cup Triple towers have been taken down, while the top and bottom terminals are currently being removed. Additional towers and haul rope were recently delivered, as well as the recently galvanized chairs.

Excavation of the new trails is moving along slowly, hampered by recent rain, snow, and frost events. The only completed trails thus far are Green Peak novice trails 51 and 53. The top third of the intermediate terrain has been smoothed, as well as much of intermediate trail 52. None of the new expert trails have been excavated.

Construction of snowmaking infrastructure on Green Peak novice trail 51 continues using 4" interlocking Tiroler Rohre pipe. Conduit is being laid for electrical service, while at least 5 Sufag fan guns have been delivered.

First approved by the United States Forest Service in 2013, the $2 million Green Peak project is expected to add 10 trails spanning 45 acres. The World Cup Triple will be relocated and installed on the new peak by SkyTrans. Originally a 1986 Albertsson-Stadeli installation, the lift was rebuilt with a new drive and line equipment by Doppelmayr in 2000. The Green Peak installation is expected to be 4,380 feet long by 1,011 feet vertical.

Waterville Valley CEO Sununu has campaigned heavily on the Green Peak expansion, touting the use of New Hampshire contractors throughout the project. Recent polls show Sununu leading by 4 to 5 points in the New Hampshire gubernatorial race.