Poley Mountain puts new lodge to the test

WATERFORD, N.B. – The general manager of the Poley Mountain ski hill said staff are working out the kinks of operating a new ski lodge.

Bill Anderson said skiers put the lodge to the test during opening day Monday.

“We’re dealing with computers and all that type of stuff so we’re getting the little bugs ironed out,” he said.

The old lodge burned down shortly before ski season last year. The damage was a blow to the local economy as the lodge employed about 180 people.

But the old lodge was insured allowing a new one to be built and on Monday, they had enough snow to open its doors.

“Everyone’s taking advantage of the weather. We don’t have a lot of trails open but the ones we do are good,” Anderson said, noting they are hoping to have a strong week going into the new year.

Skiers like Mike Hayes were glad to finally hit the slopes.

“Conditions are great and I can’t complain because we’re skiing and we’ve been waiting for this day for a while,” he said, noting the new lodge is a welcome change to the mountain.

“The new lodge is spectacular and lots of space and the cafeteria is fantastic,” he said.