Work has got underway on a complete replacement of Killington’s main K-1 base lodge with a price tag for the new building put at $29 million, with completion planned by November 2020.
The Vermont ski area is one of North America’s biggest and has several different base areas accessing the slopes from different points but the K-1 Lodge is the biggest, most-used access point. Parts of the original building, which has been added to and upgraded over the years, date back six decades.
The new building will be more than half-as-big again as its predecessor, covering extend 58,000 square feet (up from 37,000sqf) and will of course be purpose-designed for the skier and boarder of the 21st century. Designed priorities include improved access for all, regardless of ability, and better vehicular access.
The new lodge and will include a full-service bar, a food court, a coffee bar, additional space, and unobstructed 180-degree views of the Vermont mountain landscape. The new K-1 Base Lodge will feature an open floor plan featuring mixed seating arrangements, floor-to-ceiling windows, a grandiose fireplace, and an upscale food court set to offer fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. Skier services will include rentals and tune shop, lift ticket sales, retail store, changing rooms, including a mothers nursing room, bag storage and additional restrooms on all three floors.
“We’re excited to begin phase one of the K-1 Base Lodge build. This is a significant step in fulfilling our vision to transform the way guests experience and enjoy Killington for years to come,” says Mike Solimano, president and general manager of Killington Resort. “In the past two years alone, we’ve set the stage for the next 50 by making more than $60 million dollars in improvements, and we have big plans for Killington moving forward that will continue to solidify us as the Northeast’s hub for year-round adventure.”
Construction of the lodge is taking place in concert with the addition of a new 4-person, fixed grip chairlift debuting this winter to replace the old North Ridge Triple and significant upgrades to Killington and sister resort Pico Mountain’s snowmaking systems.
The new Lodge is being built right next to the old one, which will continue to be accessible this winter as building work continues.