Cherry Creek amends zoning law, looks for ski resort buyer
It burned down almost two years ago. Now, the town of Cherry Creek wants to breath new life into Cockaigne Ski Resort. YNN's Mark Goshgarian reports how a zoning change could turn the one-time ski area into a year-round resort.
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CHERRY CREEK, N.Y. — Some charred remains are still all that's left.
"I think everybody really misses it," said Nancy Hall, Rustic Creations owner.
The ski lodge at Cockaigne in Cherry Creek burned to the ground in January 2011.
"We've all been affected; all the businesses have been affected," said Hall.
Almost two years later, Nancy Hall, owner of Rustic Creations, is encouraged by plans to rezone the property.
"It's about time, we've always hoped that they would do that over there eventually because there's so much potential, there's land around there," said Hall.
The town board recently amended its zoning law to now allow for year-round recreational activities, like horseback riding and hiking.
"I would assume that it wouldn't change the town too much, we're not looking for an Ellicottville, and that's what you got to kinda watch also on that part of it, because this is mainly agricultural and rural out here and the thing is you do not have much commerce to bring people in," said Pete Smallback, (D) Cherry Creek Councilman.
While there is still no serious buyer, the move allows the town to market Cockaigne as a four season resort.
"All the lift equipment, the grooming equipment, the snow making equipment is there, all we need is someone whose interested in taking it to the next level with a new lodge and hopefully year-round plans," said Andrew Goodell, Cockaigne attorney.
Not only would a year round resort here at Cockaigne provide recreational fun for the whole family, it would also bring in more dollars to area businesses and help rejuvenate the local economy.
"Whether its for horse trails or golf or whatever they offer, then it's certainly going to bring more people, its going to benefit everybody, I would think there would be a boost in all the businesses," said Hall.