Big White Ski Resort Marks the Completion of $13.5 Million Staff Housing Expansion

This ambitious $13.5 million project adds 128 new beds, bringing the resort’s total seasonal staff housing capacity to 605 beds.

“This project highlights our dedication to creating an environment where our staff can thrive,” said Darcy Arnold, Chief Operations Officer of Big White Ski Resort. “At Big White, we believe our team is the foundation of everything we do, and providing them with high-quality housing is a vital investment in our collective future.”

Situated within walking distance of both the main village and Happy Valley, the new accommodations are designed to enhance the staff experience. Each building spans four floors and includes thoughtfully planned suites, featuring double kitchens and laundry facilities. The first floor of each building is equipped with a 25 x 20 gym, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for residents.

The project continues the Black Forest staff housing initiative, which began with the 2018/19 season. The new facilities eliminate bed availability constraints, ensuring that Big White can attract and retain the best talent while maintaining its status as one of Canada’s premier ski destinations.

“This milestone builds on our long-term vision to support the people who make Big White a destination unlike any other,” said Arnold. “From our dedicated staff to the local trades who brought this project to life, it’s a community-wide achievement that speaks to the heart of who we are as a resort.”

Construction began in fall 2023 with foundation work, followed by months of meticulous planning. Pre-fabricated walls were built off-site in Lumby, BC, before being transported to Big White for assembly in spring 2024. Local contractors and trades—including Alcon Electric, Vision Plumbing, and Avalanche Exteriors—played a critical role in completing the project ahead of schedule, with Building 2 finalized on November 15 and Building 1 on December 1.

The project was spearheaded by Duncan Robinson, a long-time member of the Big White community whose connection to the resort spans over three decades. Robinson began his journey at Big White in 1993, working in the water and sewer department before transitioning to the lift department. In 1996, he pursued a carpentry apprenticeship, marking the start of a lifelong passion for construction that would leave a lasting mark on the resort.

Robinson’s contributions to Big White are deeply rooted in family and tradition. His wife, Yolanda, also built her career at the resort, and their daughter Abigail is now following in her father’s footsteps as a second-year carpentry apprentice. Together, the Robinson family has been instrumental in shaping the resort's growth and identity.

As the owner of West Bay Construction, Robinson has played a pivotal role in delivering key projects at Big White, including the Stewart Bridge, the skier overpass in the Black Forest, and the Central Reservations Check-In building. The completion of the new staff accommodations is a continuation of his enduring legacy at the resort, exemplifying a commitment to quality, community, and innovation.

Big White Ski Resort is excited to welcome staff into these newly completed accommodations, a symbol of the resort's ongoing investment in its team and the future of its mountain community.

Global News: New staff housing at Big White expected to help with recruitment

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