Kelowna, BC — Big White Ski Resort’s newest employee housing development will have a bed for every key worker.
Western Investor reported last week that Big White Ski Resort is making significant progress on a $13.5 million CAD ski-in/out employee housing complex. Shingles on the roof and windows were installed last week, and drywallers, plumbers, and electricians are commencing work on the interior soon. These two buildings were designed by Hugh Bitz and are being built by West Bay Construction. This will add 128 beds, giving Big White a total of 605 beds for seasonal employees.
According to Michael J. Ballingall, the ski resort’s senior vice president, Big White believes that they can now house practically all of their critical workers:
“We are in a position now that in our key jobs, if you want a job, we have a bed for you and these beds come with amazing views.”
Following a slowdown in job applications during the COVID era, demand for workers has skyrocketed. So far, they’ve received more than 3,000 applications for around 920 gigs. In addition, competition between local ski resorts for these workers has accelerated, with available gigs and housing being factors that prospective employees consider before accepting a position. The competitors that Big White is facing off against include Fernie, Silver Star, Sun Peaks, and Revelstoke.
The cost for employees to live in these units will be $700-800 CAD per month. They aim to move furniture in on October 31st.
Image Credits: Big White Ski Resort
