PRESS RELEASE 2011-2012 SEASON
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hunter to Unveil New High Speed Quad on the West Side for 2011/12 Season
Zephyr Express to replace Y and Z lifts
Hunter, NY – Hunter Mountain will be opening for the 2011/2012 season with significant improvements to its West Side, including a new high speed detachable quad. The new chairlift, named Zephyr Express will replace the Y and Z lifts, though Z-lift is still present on Hunter West to be used as a backup.
Summer 2010 saw the removal of the Snowlite Express to make room for New York’s first high speed detachable 6-person lift, the Kaatskill Flyer. The lift towers, tower cross arms, and structural terminal parts were sent to a facility in Connecticut where they were refurbished by hot-dip galvanizing. The attach/detach mechanism has been upgraded with tire drives replacing the original chain conveyer. This will render a much smoother, quieter, and more energy-efficient operation on the West Side. The lift also sports a brand new electric 600 horsepower main drive. The Zephyr Express will have an uphill capacity of 2,400 per hour, with an average grade of 36.85%, and a vertical rise of 1295 feet.
“We are positioning the lift several hundred feet below the previously existing Y lift base”, explains Scott Berwick, who is overseeing the new quad installation. “The upgrade will render this lift more modern than when it was new”. Russ Coloton, Hunter’s President, adds “We are happy to be able to give back to our expert skiers and riders who have waited patiently for this upgrade. They can now enjoy a smoother and faster ride to the top of our West Side.”
The Zephyr Express chairlift will be completed to service the West Side upon opening in the 2011/2012 season. For further information about the installation of this high speed quad at Hunter Mountain, please e-mail jpezak@huntermtn.com or call 800-486-8376 x2339.
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