Whistler’s Answers: June 7, 1984Whistler’s Answers: June 7, 1984
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1984. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: In early June 1984, Council approved a proposal for Ruth Buzzard’s 148-space KOA campground in White Gold. Whistler had no campground at the time and affordable accommodations were a topic that had often been brought up by and with visitors. While this approval was a step forward for the KOA campground and dealt with some of the zoning issues, there were other changes and approvals that were needed to make sanctioned camping a reality in Whistler. By the end of June, a different campground in today’s Creekside area had been quashed and another project near Tamarisk had been put on hold due to strong objections by residents. In the end, no KOA campground was built in Whistler either, though the Riverside Camping & RV Resort currently operates in the proposed area.
Question: How do you think a campground will affect Whistler?
Dick Bishop – Entrepreneur – Brio
I think it will be good. It will help direct more trade through Whistler, and create more opportunity for people to come here. The location of the campground will ensure that people drive in for entertainment at night, or for lunches and shopping. It’s tapping a whole new market. The hotel market won’t be affected.
Buffy Woods – Executive Secretary – Alpine Meadows
It’s great. I know lots of people who travel by recreational vehicle, and some who have gone elsewhere because they couldn’t find a place here. It will be good in both summer and winter. People who would otherwise pass right through will stop for a night.
Paul Dellanzo – Golf Professional – Whistler Cay Heights
My immediate reaction is that I think it will provide an additional market that we haven’t had yet, providing that the people using it support the economy here.