27
Nancy Greene Raine, winner of two World Cup titles, and two Olympic medals.1979
Whistler Mountain, Whistler, British Columbia
28
Concerns about preserving the Blackcomb Mountain along with dreams of another ski destination motivated Canadian Olympic medallist Nancy Greene and her husband, Al Raine, to submit a proposal for development.29
Mayor Pat Carleton breaking ground for Whistler's new Town Center in 1978.1978
Creekside, Whistler, British Columbia
30
At the same time, Whistler's first mayor, Pat Carleton, unveiled plans for the new town centre located at the base of both mountains. Construction of the Bavarian-style village would begin in August 1978, spearheaded by the prominent architect Eldon Beck.31
The construction of Whistler Village began in 1979. Blackcomb Mountain is in the background.1978
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
32
Construction of Carleton Lodge1978
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
33
Fire Hall located in the Resort Municipality.1979
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
34
Whistler's stature as a community was taking shape. By the fall of 1979, the necessary facilities were in place, including a fire hall, municipal building, health centre and elementary school.35
Whistler's Medical Clinic was originally located in a temporary portable.1982
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
36
Aerial view of the town center under Phase One construction in October 1979.October, 1979
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
37
The first community ice rink, located outside a school parking lot, was created in 1979.1979
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
38
At this time, a bid was put forth to host the 1988 Winter Olympics. Although Vancouver's Mayor Jack Volrich supported it, Calgary was selected as Canada's nomination and in 1988 the city hosted the Olympic Winter Games. Whistler continued to evolve into an international holiday destination and a wonderful community in which to live.39
Image of Blackcomb Mountain, which officially opened for skiing in 1980.1979
Whistler Town Center, Whistler, British Columbia
40
In 1978, two main contenders for the development of Blackcomb Mountain presented their proposals to the Provincial Government. One proposal came from Fortress Mountain, a company based out of Calgary and half owned by the Aspen Skiing Corporation. The competing proposal came from a Vancouver-based firm. |
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