After announcing that the Sleeping Giant Ski Area would close following the 2019-2020 season due to a 200,000 dollar annual deficit, the Yellowstone Recreations Foundation has found a lifeline from Cody-born investment banker Nick Piazza.
“My hope is that this is going to be one that looks like a great turnaround story,” Piazza told the Cody Enterprise after acknowledging that visitation and low prices are likely culprits for the consistent deficit.
After conducting some market research, Piazza said he anticipates having to increase ticket prices by 20-25%, but he believes the ski area will be able to provide one of the lowest cost ski experiences in Wyoming.
The Enterprise reports Piazza discussed investing “a few hundred thousand” dollars into general improvements to the mountain saying, “It’s my gift to the community.”
Piazza’s planned improvements include investing in snowmaking to assist with snow quality consistency, lighting to provide night skiing, and terrain park landscaping. He also said he wants a free or reduced cost pass for youth skiers and snowboarders but, the details are still in the works.
Additionally, Piazza seeks to restore tradition to the mountain stating that one of his foremost goals is to bring the Cody Broncs and Fillies alpine ski team back to Sleeping Giant for training.
The deal still requires U.S. Forest Service approval and the Yellowstone Recreations Foundation board will still have a role with the mountain but will primarily serve charitable purposes, according to the Enterprise.
