Alpenglow and Improvements

News Release
May 4, 2005
Matt Skinner
970-385-2164

Durango Mountain Resort announces new Alpenglow Townhomes Construction to coincide with improvements to Columbine learning area

Durango, CO – Durango Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the new Alpenglow Townhomes, the latest slopeside development on Purgatory Mountain. The resort will team with KW Geary Builders on the ski-in/ski-out project in the lower Columbine area. The first phase, scheduled to begin this summer, will include eight chalet style units in two buildings, featuring two and three bedroom layouts, two car garages and spectacular views of the Needles.

In conjunction with the Alpenglow project, the first phase of improvements to the resort’s Columbine area will also take place. To create a more seamless experience for first-timers, the magic carpet will be moved from Columbine to the upper base area, just below the loading station of the Twilight Lift (4). This will allow the Ski & Snowboard School to teach first-timers right off the main Village Plaza, without having to ride a shuttle, after which they can ski or board to the Columbine area for the next steps.

Planned improvements to the Columbine area include a new vehicle maintenance and mountain operations building, to be constructed towards the Gelande overflow parking lot. The tubing hill will be moved just south of its current location, and that pitch reopened to skiers and snowboarders, increasing the amount of beginner terrain. The skier exit from the tunnel under Sheol Street into the Columbine area will also be improved with a new right side run option and shallower grade.

"The Alpenglow Townhomes and the improvements to the Columbine area mark the beginning of the renovation of the resort’s lower base area," said resort Director of Real Estate John Reiter. "We look forward to a long-term partnership with KW Geary Builders, helping take the resort into a successful future."

At build out the Alpenglow Townhomes will total 32 units, with custom features, floor plans, and furnishings. Future Columbine plans include a new lodge with facilities for the Adaptive Sports Association and Mercy Urgent Care Medical Clinic, plus employee housing and improved parking.

"The Alpenglow Townhomes are a fantastic opportunity for us as creative builders, and offer a rare chance to live in this unique environment," said Kurt Geary, owner of KW Geary Builders.