B.C. GOVERNMENT, SKI RESORT’S OWNER INK 60-YEAR RENEWAL

The Colorado- based company that owns the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort in British Columbia has announced a 60-year renewal of the resort’s master development agreements with the B.C. government. Vail Re

sorts Inc. says the renewal also includes approval of Whistler Blackcomb’s associated master plans. That is one of the key requirements before a three- phase, $ 345- million facelift can proceed at the mountain home of the 2010 Winter Olympics, 125 kilometres north of Vancouver. Whistler Blackcomb operates on the traditional territories of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, and Vail Resorts says agreements have also been reached to ensure the First Nations participate in the success of the ski area.