DCNR to Share Information on Denton Hill State Park Study at Open House in January

HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 6, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of State Parks Director John Hallas today announced that the department will hold a public open house on January 20 at Denton Hill State Park to discuss a feasibility study about the future uses of the park in Potter County.

The state park was opened as a downhill ski area in 1958, but was closed in November 2014 when the private operator determined it was no longer able to continue the concession.

"We have worked to ensure the public has the opportunity to play a role in determining the future of the park, including stakeholder meetings and a public survey with more than 1,600 responses," Hallas said. "At this open house we'll share what we've learned through the feasibility study as we work to determine a future course of action for operations at Denton Hill."

The feasibility study, coordinated by Moshier Studio in Pittsburgh, provides a comprehensive evaluation of the existing infrastructure as well as an in-depth look at long-term potential for skiing and other possible year-round activities at the park.

The open house will be held from 6:30 to 8:00 PM January 20 in the Denton Hill Ski Lodge. The presentation team will discuss data collected and information gathered regarding the current condition of the infrastructure; market analysis for economic viability of ski operations; and public input received through a survey regarding four-season recreational opportunities at Denton Hill.

In the event of bad weather, the open house will be held on January 27 at 6:30 PM at the lodge. Attendees should listen to local news outlets for cancellation information in the case of adverse weather conditions.

Denton Hill State Park in the Pennsylvania Wilds was opened as a ski area in 1958 and operated by the commonwealth until 1979. In 1983, DCNR signed a 35-year concession lease agreement with Denton Hill Family and Ski Resort, Inc. The concessionaire notified DCNR in November 2014 that they would no longer be able to operate. Ski operations were closed for the winter of 2014-2015.

Although no ski operations are taking place, the park continues to host special events and recreational activities supported by the existing infrastructure.

For more information on any of Pennsylvania parks visit the DCNR website at www.dcnr.state.pa.us (choose Find a Park) or call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS.

MEDIA CONTACT: Terry Brady, 717-772-9101

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Related Links

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us