Town of West Windsor had not yet purchased the lodge.
Friday, January 9, 2015, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
According to the Valley News, an early Thursday fire at the former Ascutney base lodge resulted in a total loss of the building. Challenged by sub zero temperatures, firefighters needed 9 hours to get the fire under control. The frigid temperatures resulting in significant hose and valve freezing issues for firefighters.
As reported on NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com yesterday, the ski area base lodge housed critical components of the water system that served 273 taxpayers. In addition, AT&T had a cell tower on the building. According to the Valley News this morning, the impact on that infrastructure is not yet known.
The financially troubled Ascutney Mountain ski area last operated amidst foreclosure proceedings during the 2009-10 season. The Town of West Windsor approved the acquisition of the defunct ski area on October 14, 2014.
According to the Valley News, the town has yet to close on the deal with current owner MFW Associates LLC. State police and fire investigators have been on the scene.
There were also preliminary discussions about the town possibly reopening the ski area on a very limited basis, perhaps using the base lodge and remaining double chairlift. The loss of the lodge may only add to the challenges.
