Pitkin County Creates New Air Travel Website
In order to avoid travel troubles at the Aspen airport, Pitkin County has launched a new website. It’s in response to the delays, cancelations and diversions experienced over the holidays.
The Saturday after Christmas, more than 300 planes either landed or took off from the Aspen Airport, according to the Aspen Daily News. The large amount of traffic coupled with snowy weather caused headaches for travelers.
The website aspentraveltips.com is the result of brainstorming by airport officials, airlines...and several local organizations including the Aspen Skiing Company and the Aspen Institute.
It offers real time information about ground transportation, rental cars and road conditions to Denver. Travelers will also find last-minute lodging availability in Aspen and Snowmass, should they decide to wait out the weather. Airport officials say it’s the first of several initiatives they’re considering to make peak season travel smoother.
Mardi Gras comes to Snowmass Tomorrow
Mardi Gras festivities start early in Snowmass Village tomorrow. The Mother of All Ascensions uphill race starts at 7am at Base Village. This is the event’s 23rd year.
The race climbs more than 2,000 vertical feet in two miles to Gwyn’s High Alpine restaurant. Typically 300 people, on skis, stabilizers or snowshoes participate. Unlike other uphill competitions, this event gives prizes to those who dress up.
It’s a kick off to a day of Mardi Gras events in Snowmass Village. Andrew Bielecki is an organizer.
“There are the people who are hard core racers who are heading up the mountain to set the best times. But, overall, I think it’s just people getting out there to celebrate Fat Tuesday in Snowmass Village.”
The race is followed by several events in the afternoon, including a bead toss and parade on the Snowmass Mall and fireworks on Fanny Hill.
Eagle County Picks New Manager
Eagle County will soon have a new manager. Commissioners have chosen a former Front Range city manager for the job.
Brent McFall was chosen from more than sixty candidates. He previously was city manager for Westminster, in the Denver area. McFall will start work March 6th. Salary for the position is $175,000.
