Whiteface Ski Resort to get new lodge

PHOTOGRAPHER: Photo Provided

A rendering of the proposed Mid-Station Lodge at Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington, N.Y.

ALBANY — Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Sunday that $14 million will be allocated toward building a new mid-station lodge at Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort in Wilmington.

The new lodge will replace the one that was destroyed by a fire in November. Gov. Cuomo announced the project as the 26th proposal of his 2020 State of the State address, which he will deliver in Albany on Wednesday.

The Olympic Regional Development Authority will begin the first phase of construction on the new lodge in the spring.

“As the North Country and New York State continue to set historic tourism records, Whiteface Mountain and the Olympic Regional Development Authority are leading the way,” Cuomo said in a statement. “Rebuilding the Mid-Station Lodge that was destroyed by fire will ensure that the resort continues to deliver a world-class experience as one of the most successful destinations in the ski industry.”

The 10,000 square foot lodge will be a mid-mountain respite for skiers and riders.

It will offer food and beverage service, have a large dining area, multiple seating spaces and full restroom amenities. There will also be an expansive viewing deck, offering views of the surrounding high peaks at 2,100 feet, which will wrap around the building. The majority of skiers will be able to access the lodge from the mountain’s upper trails.

While several of the new lodge’s amenities will be ready for use during the next ski season set to begin in November,. Officials anticipate that the entire facility will be complete once the second phase of construction is finished by October 2021.

Initial renderings of the new lodge show an architectural style reminiscent of an Adirondack great-lodge featuring long sloping roof lines, sweeping decks and a massive interior with vaulted ceilings.

It will be accented by many natural elements such as Adirondack timber and custom stonework. Large insulated windows will allow for maximum light while framing picturesque views of the resort. The previous lodge serviced approximately 300,000 to 400,000 visits per season. Officials expect both revenue and visitation to increase even further with the new design.