Homewood Mountain Resort, located on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe, has made commitments to ensure public access following concerns that it might become a private club. The resort announced last month that it would not operate this winter, but it has since released a new community access plan aimed at reassuring local skiers.
The resort’s updated website states, “We’ve updated our community access plan to make it clear, you’re welcome here,” addressing local residents and community members. Day tickets and season passes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis when the resort is open for skiing. Additionally, the resort is introducing discounted passes for full-time West Shore residents and a new five-year season pass.
Despite these promises, Homewood will remain closed for the 2024-2025 winter season. Public access has been a contentious issue for the past two years. The owners have plans to revitalize the ski area by constructing over 100 homes, a hotel, and a new gondola. However, community support waned in 2022 when it was revealed that the owners intended to develop the resort into an exclusive venue for investors.
Skiers in Tahoe have expressed doubts about their ability to access Homewood after redevelopment, even with recent assurances from the owners. This skepticism has influenced the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), which emphasized at a September hearing that Homewood must clarify its public access plans.
In October, the resort announced that its key financier had withdrawn funding, leading to its decision not to open this winter. It remains uncertain when Homewood might reopen.
The updated web page outlines that during ski season, all recreational areas on the mountain will be accessible to anyone with a valid season pass or lift ticket during operating hours. Amenities such as lockers, restrooms, rental shops, and hiking trails will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the year.
Like other ski areas in Tahoe, Homewood plans to implement dynamic pricing for passes and day tickets and will require parking reservations on peak days.
In response to these updates, local advocacy group Keep Homewood Public expressed satisfaction that the resort seems to be taking TRPA’s guidance and community feedback seriously. However, they cautioned that “actions speak louder than words.” The group is calling for Homewood to solidify its commitments regarding public access in its master development plan.
As discussions continue about the future of Homewood Mountain Resort, community members remain vigilant about ensuring public access remains a priority amidst ongoing redevelopment efforts.
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