Aspen, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Construction has officially commenced on the Chalet Alpina project near Lift One in Aspen. Approved by local voters in 2019, the development aims to balance modern amenities with the preservation of historical character. Led by Irongate Group, it will feature timeshares, residences, restaurants, and an Aman destination hotel. The project also focuses on improving skiing infrastructure and enhancing community amenities, including a planned park and public parking. Initial constructions involve water main installation and grading work, with major phases set for 2026.
Construction Begins for the Chalet Alpina Project at Aspen Mountain’s Lift One
The highly anticipated Chalet Alpina project is officially underway near the historic base of Lift One in Aspen. This development, which narrowly gained voter approval in 2019 by a mere 26 votes (1,555 in favor to 1,529 against), promises to enhance the local community and skiing experience.
The Irongate Group is heading the development, which is set to include a variety of offerings such as timeshares, residences, restaurants, retail spaces, and additional amenities. A key feature of the project is the inclusion of an Aman destination hotel, developed by the OKO Group based in Miami, which will elevate the luxury accommodations available in the area.
This project is designed not only to introduce new housing and commercial options but also to replace the current Lift 1A and rehabilitate several significant historic buildings. The overall concept aims to strike a balance between new development and preserving Aspen’s unique character, a topic that has sparked mixed feelings among residents. Community Development Director Ben Anderson noted the varying perspectives on the project.
Enhancing community amenities is another focal point of the Chalet Alpina project. Plans for a new park/Dean Street plaza and public parking are designed to improve local conveniences. Additionally, the project promises to enhance the skiing experience by extending the lift further into town, effectively connecting the skiing area to residential and dining options.
Historical preservation remains a vital aspect of this development, as efforts are underway to celebrate Aspen’s skiing legacy through the rehabilitation of essential historic structures. Initial construction activities will focus on installing a new water main and conducting grading work for a new cul-de-sac at the top of South Aspen Street.
Preparatory work, including asbestos abatement and stabilization of the Skiers’ Chalet Lodge and Steakhouse, is scheduled to occur before the lodge’s relocation in 2026. The future construction phases for the Lift One Lodge project are anticipated to commence in Spring 2026 and will include excavations and foundation work.
It’s important to note that there will be no construction impacts reported for the 2025-26 winter season, addressing community concerns about disruptions during peak skiing times. Anderson reassured that while environmental impacts are a typical consideration for large construction projects, stakeholders are taking necessary steps to mitigate concerns.
However, there is ongoing dissent within the community, with some residents expressing worries that the project may lead Aspen in a direction they do not support. The construction features a phased permit issuance plan that is still under review, with further elements regarding the Lift One Lodge and the Shadow Mountain Lift still in developmental stages.
Both ski resort operators and city officials are committed to coordinating construction efforts to minimize disruptions to skiing activities throughout the winter season. The community is encouraged to engage in ongoing discussions about the construction and its impacts to foster support for future developments.
FAQ
What is the Chalet Alpina Project?
The Chalet Alpina project is a construction development near the original base of Lift One in Aspen that includes timeshares, residences, restaurants, retail spaces, and additional amenities.
When was the concept of the project approved?
The project’s concept was approved by Aspen voters in 2019 by a narrow margin of 26 votes, with 1,555 votes in favor and 1,529 against.
Who is leading the project?
The Irongate Group is spearheading the development, with plans for an Aman destination hotel developed by the OKO Group from Miami included in the overall plan.
What historical elements will be preserved?
Historical preservation is a significant aspect of the project, with plans to celebrate Aspen’s skiing legacy through the rehabilitation of key historic structures.
When are major construction phases expected to begin?
Future construction phases for the Lift One Lodge project are expected to begin in Spring 2026.
Will any construction impact the 2025-26 winter season?
There will be no construction impacts logged for the 2025-26 winter season.
Key Features of the Chalet Alpina Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Near the original base of Lift One in Aspen |
| Approval | Approved by Aspen voters in 2019 by a margin of 26 votes |
| Developers | Spearheaded by Irongate Group with Aman destination hotel by OKO Group |
| Amenities | Timeshares, residences, restaurants, retail spaces, and additional community amenities |
| Historical Preservation | Rehabilitation of key historic structures |
| Construction Timeline | Initial phase includes water main installation; major phase expected in Spring 2026 |
| Winter Impact | No construction impacts for the 2025-26 winter season |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Forbes: Exclusive First Look at Aspen’s Newest Hotel, Chalet Alpina
- Aspen Daily News: World Cup Racing Future Depends on Clarity Around Lift One Corridor
- Aspen Times: Aspen Mountain to Be Fundamentally Changed as Construction Starts Near Lift One
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aspen
- Google Search: Chalet Alpina
Author: Construction CA News
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