After months of uncertainty, Whitehorse residents finally have reason to wax their skis and snowboards.
Last week, the Great Northern Ski Society announced Whitehorse has finagled one last installment of funding, thereby allowing the resort to open for the season.
In previous months, the city gave Mount Sima $55,000 to facilitate much needed repairs and maintenance to the resort’s three lift systems. The latest grant totals $170,000.
“The city is very pleased that a solution could be crafted between all parties that will see Mount Sima open this winter,” said Mayor Bev Buckway, in a press release.
“We recognize the tremendous effort that has gone into addressing issues related to the growth and development of the Mount Sima operation.”
Mount Sima abruptly closed last January, mid-season, when a bolt on the resort’s T-bar lift came loose and an enormous chunk of metal weighing more than 18 kilos just missed some skiers, throwing the safety of all three lifts into question.
The unscheduled closure left Mount Sima owing $70,000 in lift passes, which will be honoured this season.
“We want anyone who has their season pass from last year to know we will honour your pass for this season,” said Sima president, Keith Thaxter in a news release.
“Continued support from our loyal skiers and boarders has been key to our success and we value that loyalty.”
Although no opening date has been set in stone, the resort’s directors are hoping to open mid-December, at the start of the Christmas break for local schools.
Season passes will go on sale October 15 at Hougen’s Sportslodge.