PRPA Enables Thrill on the Hill at Shames Mountain

PRPA Enables Thrill on the Hill at Shames Mountain

APRIL 11, 2022 

As Shames Mountain wraps up a successful 2021-2022 ski and snowboard season, the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) announced today its contributions to two critical infrastructure projects that have had a major impact on operations. Partnering with My Mountain Co-op through its Community Investment Fund, PRPA committed $240,000 to projects both on-and-off the hill that have expanded capacity, enhanced safety and functionality, and developed new opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to access the winter recreation area.

The biggest change to the visitor experience has been the addition of a new conveyor lift, which replaced the old rope-tow that proved to be challenging for beginners and people with disabilities to use. The new ‘Green Carpet’ is an industry-standard lift designed for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels and is fully enclosed to protect the equipment and riders from the elements. The conveyor belt system has enabled the development of two new tubing lanes adjacent to the beginner slope, that offer guests a chance to experience the thrill of the hill without committing to skiing or riding. The total cost of the project was $695,000 and PRPA’s Community Investment Fund contributed $80,000.

“Previously, we had a high failure rate amongst new skiers and boarders, but the conveyor lift has transformed the experience for young children, helped lower the average skier age and introduced an entirely new demographic to Shames Mountain,” said Christian Theberge, My Mountain Co-op’s General Manager. “We are grateful to the Community Investment Fund for allowing us to lower the barrier for beginners to attract more people to our facility and keep them coming back.”

Additionally, PRPA’s Community Investment Fund committed $160,000 to expand parking at Shames Mountain and make the facilities easier to access. The project included upgrading the access road, expanding the existing parking area, and building a new lot and structures to house snow-clearing and other equipment. The developments have allowed for a greater number of visitors and provided the infrastructure needed to support operations both on-and-off the hill.

“These investments have broadened access to the recreational activities at Shames Mountain and opened up new opportunities, particularly for youth and families,” said Shaun Stevenson, President and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority. “As one of northwest British Columbia’s most important winter outdoor recreational assets, we’re delighted to continue to support its growth through our Community Investment Fund, so more people in our region can become involved in skiing and snowboarding.”

The Community Investment Fund has partnered with My Mountain Co-op on multiple projects in the past, including two separate $50,000 contributions towards grooming equipment. Shames Mountain was also the winner of PRPA’s Project of the Decade contest, which was voted on by community members, garnering $10,000 for the parking expansion project.