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Final details on temporary parking lot still being hashed out

VANOC will be using driving range during Olympic Games

 

Tourism Whistler clarified this week that while skiers and boarders will be able to park on the temporary parking lot that will be constructed on the Whistler Driving Range this winter, they won't be able to park there during the Olympics.

The Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) will be using the parking lot at that time.

"This effort to provide parking availability for visitors is a key way for us to demonstrate that we are indeed open for business this season, and to limit the impact of Olympic aversion," said Casey Vanden Heuvel, Tourism Whistler's director of communications.

"However, we understand that plans for the use of the driving range during the Games are not finalized and VANOC may need to use this space during the Games."

VANOC is still working out the final details of how the driving range will be used during the Games and will communicate their exact plans with the public soon.

Meanwhile, as of Monday, the Resort Municipality of Whistler had not yet given VANOC's application for a temporary use permit an official stamp of approval.

If authorized, VANOC and Tourism Whistler will work with Whistler Blackcomb to operate the 650-car temporary parking lot up until the Games, which start Feb. 12, and after the Games, which wrap up on Feb. 28.

"A plan for a parking reservation system will be finalized in the near future so that Whistler Blackcomb ticketed day-skiers will have exclusive access to these parking stalls," said Dick Vollet, vice president of mountain operations for VANOC.

"While VANOC may need to use the parking spots during the Games, the overall results will benefit the business community this winter season by attracting recreational skiers and ultimately result in an enhanced driving range at Whistler Golf Club."