In a recent meeting held at the Pitkin County government offices, officials gathered to discuss winter parking management options for Buttermilk Ski Area, a topic that has sparked considerable debate among local stakeholders. The session, led by Public Works Manager Brian Pettit, focused on two primary proposals aimed at addressing parking demand during the busy winter season.

The first option presented was to implement paid parking at Buttermilk, charging $15 per space per day. This approach is projected to generate sufficient revenue to cover the costs of managing the parking lot and potentially fund an additional shuttle service from Brush Creek, where parking would remain free. The shuttle would connect skiers to Buttermilk and the airport, enhancing accessibility while managing traffic flow.

Conversely, the second option involves maintaining free parking at Buttermilk, supported by a $200,000 contribution from the Aspen Skiing Company. This proposal aims to offset the revenue loss the county would incur from not charging for parking. However, it lacks the transportation demand management strategies that the paid parking model would facilitate.

The discussions revealed a broader concern about managing transportation demand effectively, particularly as the county seeks to reduce congestion in Aspen. Pettit emphasized that the goal of introducing paid parking is not to extract money from skiers but to encourage the use of intercept lots and shuttles, thereby alleviating traffic in the area.

Commissioner Poschman raised questions about the differences in perspectives between the county and the ski company, suggesting that an electric shuttle service could be a viable solution to enhance transportation options. The ski company representatives echoed the need for a well-thought-out plan, cautioning against implementing changes without adequate communication and community engagement.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that while there is a desire to improve parking and transportation solutions, stakeholders are wary of rushing into decisions that could negatively impact the community. The consensus leaned towards delaying the implementation of paid parking until a comprehensive plan is developed, ensuring that all parties, including local residents and businesses, are adequately informed and involved in the process.

Looking ahead, officials agreed on the importance of continuing discussions and planning for the future. The timeline for any changes remains uncertain, but there is a shared commitment to finding a balanced solution that meets the needs of both the community and visitors to Buttermilk. As winter approaches, the focus will be on crafting a strategy that enhances the skiing experience while managing the challenges of transportation in this picturesque Colorado locale.