Expand Ski Denton!

To the editor:

It's time for a bold new vision and concerted efforts to resurrect the collapsing economy of Coudersport, Potter County, and the entire northern tier.

The expansion of Ski Denton into a destination resort can be the answer.

This can be done in an environmentally friendly way to maintain the wilderness appeal that already attracts tourists to the area.

We already have many acres of state land that could be developed into one of the premier ski resorts in the northeast. We have water, room for parking, and the possibility of generating electricity.

We need 50 or 60 additional ski slopes, state of the art snowmaking and lift systems. The addition of a hotel, conference center, and restaurant would attract winter sport enthusiasts from all over the eastern half of the country.

But, most importantly, we need the coordinated efforts of all of our government agencies. Local officials, the Forestry and State Parks bureaus and the Governor's Office must work in conjunction with the willing owners/operators of Ski Denton to bring about a complete economic makeover for our area.

The benefits are obvious. A four-season destination resort will provide jobs, economic stimulus, and environmentally friendly amenities while preserving the wilderness feel of our area.

Current businesses, such as our restaurants, hotels, outfitters, and others, would see an immediate increase in customers.

We only have to look around to see the possibilities. We have greater physical resources than a Holiday Valley or a Seven Springs, and with a little effort, investment, and cooperation, we could create something special.

David Saulter

Coudersport