Alaska’s Capital City Pondering Whether Installing Gondola For Ski Area Is Worth It
Juneau, Alaska — It’s been a bumpy start to the season at Eaglecrest Ski Area. A lack of open terrain and a water leak to the lodges have meant limited operations so far. The question that looms large for the ski area is whether they will build the gondola that’s been on the property for years.
The past few months have also been busy regarding developments on the long-delayed gondola project at Eaglecrest. Purchased from an Austrian ski resort in 2022, it has gradually been discovered that many parts need to be refurbished, leading to additional costs. Add in the fact that the city-owned ski area is located on an island in Alaska, and it’s become a bit of a rigmarole.
The first part of the construction came this fall, with the access road for the new gondola being constructed. The gondola cabins are going to be shipped to Colorado so they have a like-new condition. They’re expected to return in 2027, but with a notable cost. According to KTOO, this refurbishment is costing $451,000, not including tariffs. The t-word could make the cost between $600k and $700k. Despite the initial construction beginning, there is still a bit of reluctance to press forward.
The Juneau Independent reported last week that an updated cost for the lift installation will be provided in February or March by a to-be-determined contractor. After that is announced, the Juneau Assembly will decide whether to proceed or cancel the project. According to Christine Woll, the finance committee chair for the Juneau Assembly, the plan is to still move forward with the gondola. However, Woll stated that “if the estimates for what it costs to install are far higher than what was originally intended, then the Assembly may choose to change course.”
Regardless, Eaglecrest intends to build out its summer offerings, which would bring more outsiders to the ski area. It’s also vital to help the ski area reduce its deficit, which is a point of frustration for the city.
“If it’s a no-go on the gondola then we need to be thinking very seriously about what other form of summer development can we pursue,” said Jim Calvin, a member of the Eaglecrest Board. “Because I do think that one way or another summer revenue has to be part of our future.”
Why Does Eaglecrest Want To Build This Gondola?
Because Juneau is a big-time tourist destination. Eaglecrest mostly caters to local skiers in the winter, although some do make the trip there to check it out. In the summer, cruise ships and other tourists visit the city, making it possible to create active year-round visitation there. Regarding why they bought a used gondola, they believed it offered better value than a more expensive new model, which also would have resulted in a years-long wait due to demand during the pandemic.
At this point, another key reason they want it built is the city’s agreement with Goldbelt, Inc. In 2023, Goldbelt signed a construction agreement with the city. If the gondola isn’t completed by 2028, they get a refund from the city, which would include interest. Goldbelt would benefit if it were to be built, as it gives a portion of the summer revenues generated to the company.
We’ll see if 2026 is the year they can finally figure out the gondola situation.
Image/Video Credits: Eaglecrest Ski Area
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