Whistler, B.C.
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March 14, 2020 - 5:39 PM
Whistler Blackcomb resort will be closed from March 15 to 22 due to COVID-19 concerns, Vail Resorts announced.
Vail Resorts Operations will suspend operations at its 37 mountain resorts in the U.S., Canada and Australia, CEO Rob Katz said in a statement posted to the company website Saturday March 14.
"This has no doubt been an incredibly challenging time," Katz said in the release. "With 37 resorts spread across 15 states and three countries, we – like the rest of the world – have been closely tracking every new development related to coronavirus (COVID-19) and have been in constant contact with local health officials for guidance. Without question, our top priority has been the health and wellbeing of our guests and employees – and to no lesser extent the health and wellbeing of the communities where we operate. We know each decision we make has a broad impact far beyond our operations."
The hiatus will allow the company to reassess its approach for the rest of the season.
Lodging and property management operations will remain open to service the guests we have on location or those with existing reservations, but it will not be taking new reservations for this upcoming week.
"All our scheduled employees, both seasonal and year-round, will be paid during this upcoming eight-day period, without needing to use any vacation or sick time. Their commitment to our company and guests during this uncertain time has been unwavering and I am personally grateful beyond words," Katz said.
"This was not an easy decision to make, as we deeply considered the impact it will have on our guests, employees, and the people and businesses in our communities. We understand this change may be confusing given our communications of operational changes over the past week, and as late as last night."
More updated information on the remainder of the season will be made by Friday, March 20.
Go here for the full statement.
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