Park City Mountain’s Sunrise gondola plan gets unanimous approval from planning commission

Sunrise Gondola rendering from Park City Mountain. The permitting decision was the last step in Phase I of planning. Photo: Park City Mountain

SNYDERVILLE, Utah — The Snyderville Basin Planning Commission unanimously voted to recommend a permit for Park City Mountain to replace its Sunrise chairlift with a more efficient 10-person gondola. This decision follows substantial community backing, with over 80 letters of support submitted prior to the hearing. The positive recommendation from the Planning Commission will now go to Pat Putt, Summit County Community Development Director for final approval.

Jennifer Wesselhoff, President & CEO of Park City Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, highlighted this unique community response, referring to the local residents as “’YIMBYs,’ a term that conveys their strong endorsement with “Yes in my backyard!” for the project.

Deirdra Walsh, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Park City Mountain, expressed her gratitude for the commission’s recommendation. “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of today’s hearing and the Snyderville Basin Planning Commission’s unanimous vote to recommend our permit to replace Sunrise chairlift with a 10-person gondola,” Walsh stated.

“This new gondola will mark a significant improvement to the guest experience in Canyons Village. We are excited to reduce wait times and get skiers and riders on snow faster by providing a third lift option to complement Red Pine Gondola and Orange Bubble Express.”

The project is poised to enhance the ski and ride experience in Canyons Village, aiming for reduced wait times and a more efficient way to enjoy the slopes.

The decision was the last step in Phase I of the planning process. The timeline of events below is what will follow in Phase II and III.