The package battle in Vail is over; The Colorado ski resort is now focusing on a new base of affordable housing

Vail Resorts and the city of Vail have dropped efforts and are now planning to work together to build affordable housing at a new fourth ski area at the resort. This came after Vail Resorts withdrew its appeal against the condemnation of the land on which it previously planned to build the apartments.

Maybe you remember recent reports about this Parcel is condemned by the cityat the east end of Vail. To recap: Vail Resorts wanted to build a multi-story affordable housing complex to address the massive lack of affordable options for workers, while the city fought the plan and emphasized big horn sheep habitat during construction.

“As part of the partnership agreement, the city of Vail and Vail Resorts have naturally aligned on development in West Vail, including workforce housing,” said John Plack, communications director for Vail Resorts. “As a result, Vail Resorts will withdraw its appeal of the city’s condemnation of its East Village property.”

Working with the city could include help with public financing or help getting building permits for the new base (which doesn't currently have a solid plan, but could include things similar to the other bases, restaurants, shops, etc.) . and ski access via a gondola).

“It really marks a new era of collaboration between the city, the Vail Resorts company and the community, including East West Partners, a local company here in Vail,” Plack said. “We want to start this with a community open day to get feedback from the community about what the future vision for development in West Lionshead will be.”

Vail Mayor Travis Coggin said the disagreement over the property began long before he took office and he was grateful both groups could move past it at this point.

“A lot of times I feel like we're siblings and siblings are going to fight,” Coggin said. “But you know, you work at it and find the common goals that we have.”

These common goals are workforce housing. Coggin agreed that her tourist town thrives on the people who can make the town and resort a memorable experience for visitors.

“You can’t provide a great experience if there’s no one there to run the place, open the store or cook your food in a nice restaurant,” Coggin said.

There is still no official timeline for developing the plan for the new base.