Winter Park Unlocked

Overview of Winter Park Unlocked Project: Master Development Plans to Guide Future Growth

Winter Park Resort is embarking on an evolution: Winter Park Unlocked.

Winter Park Resort has been changing and growing for more than eight decades while remaining a place grounded in authenticity and community spirit. Now, and in partnership with Winter Park Recreational Association (WPRA), the Town of Winter Park, Alterra Mountain Company, and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Winter Park Resort is starting to envision its next big adventure: unlocking what’s possible for a mountain resort of the future – a vision that stays true to who we are, honors authentic local character and community, connects residents and visitors alike, respects and embraces the natural world around us and ultimately enhances the experience for everyone, both on and off the mountain.

A project like the one we're imagining is complex and ever-evolving. We're working with our partners and designers to be nimble, thoughtful, and sustainable in our approach—to improve this already amazing place and create a mountain resort and community like no other.

Overview

This ambitious vision will occur over phases and will ultimately include:

• Base Improvements: At the heart of this plan is developing distinct neighborhoods with green spaces integrated throughout, restoring natural areas, and making the Fraser River a central feature.
• On-Mountain Improvements: Terrain expansions will improve connectivity, add intermediate runs, upgrade snow-making, and enhance on-mountain dining and lodges.
• Connectivity Improvements: A town-to-resort gondola, expanded rail service, and a new ski-back trail will better connect Winter Park to the resort and beyond.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WINTER PARK UNLOCKED

Current Status

A Preliminary Development Plan (PDP) was submitted in February outlining the elements of the overall development. This included the first Final Development Plan (FDP). We anticipate more FDPs for additional sections of development within the overall project.

The Planning Commission discussed the PDP at the March meeting. Future discussions are scheduled for both meetings in April.

View the Planning Commission calendar.

View the submission documents.

Town Role

The Town plays two important roles in this effort:

Development Review – As with any other proposed development, Winter Park Resort must go through the Development Review Process of the Town. The process is designed to ensure that the development aligns with the comprehensive plan as well as zoning and land use regulations.

Public Infrastructure Investments – The Town is also looking to make investments in public infrastructure to facilitate development in this area and throughout the community. The Town formed an Urban Renewal Authority, which can create special taxing districts to fund these critical components. Learn more about URA's.