On Nov. 11, the Brighton Town Council resoundingly voted “yes” on an ordinance that clearly spells out the footprint of Big Cottonwood Canyon’s ski areas, as they pertain to the town of Brighton.
Ultimately, the ordinance will mean “no” on Solitude’s proposed parking lot plan. But, the story does not have to end there.
Solitude successfully created a private employee shuttle and busing program, and this forward-thinking model is a great foundation for a master plan to reduce congestion and improve the recreational experience. Such a plan, perhaps with a pilot program to privately shuttle skiers and riders up canyon, could be implemented in collaboration with UDOT and the Forest Service, for the benefit of all.
In the event that Solitude attempts to move forward with its parking lot plan (which has already drawn a raft of criticism from neighbors, community members, and environmental activists, alike), the only entities that will prosper are the attorneys. People are very passionate about Big Cottonwood Canyon, and public comment would be insurmountable — with innumerable, unmitigable reasons why the parking plan will never be approved.
Solitude should consider selling the beautiful land to the town of Brighton now; watershed conservation and protection would be a win for all (and some community goodwill for Solitude would be an added bonus).
Solitude has led the direction for change with their employee shuttle program; hopefully they will build on that vision and become a hero in the story of Big Cottonwood Canyon and its endless traffic woes.
Peg Kramer, Solitude
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