YOUR AD HERE »

Sabotaging ourselves

Dear Editor:

When you think “mountain resort town,” do you think beautiful views of mountains, trees, and flowers; crisp, clean air; crystal clear rivers; hiking, skiing, bike riding, and rafting; rustic, historical reminders of the early days; peaceful parks for cultural gatherings? Me too.

Then why are we sabotaging the charm and natural beauty of Aspen to turn it into New York City, Los Angeles, or Paris? Why are we trying to build another wall of huge hotels the size of several Wal-Marts to block our views and access to the ski mountain? This will require digging out and resculpting the mountain and one of the most historical sections of Aspen. And, why are we looking for ways to bring 1,200 more vehicles in and out of town each day?



I agree the Lift 1A area deserves improvement and attention. But respect its size, beauty, and history! Can’t we accomplish that by planning smaller, attractive lodges that integrate well into the area, a chair lift upgrade, and points of interest (like the Historic Ski Museum) that make sense for the area, the tourists, and the citizens? Places like that would glorify the mountain rather than cover it. They would do so without totally overhauling nature and polluting our town for several years, too!

Ricki Newman




Aspen