Plymouth, New Hampshire — Out of all of the owners who have owned Tenney Mountain over the past couple of decades, Steven Kelly has been able to make the most progress on making the ski resort a viable business. The upgrades have included a brand-new snowmaking network, renovations to the base lodge, the addition of a disc golf course, and upgrades to the lifts. However, he has bigger ambitions for Tenney.
On March 10th, voters in the town of Plymouth will vote on whether to make the land at Tenney Mountain into an overlay district. The amendment has been endorsed by various local officials, including the Town Manager. It has also been endorsed by businesses like Plymouth State University and Last Chair Brewing.
An overlay district is a new zoning level added to the existing zoning, establishing guidelines for this area without redoing its boundaries. Ultimately, it simplifies the approval process for projects. According to the ski resort, this standard is needed to attract investors who would help develop it.
“In the spring of 2022, my wife Lynn and I took a ride together on Tenney’s Hornet chairlift. We were struck by the beauty and immense potential of the area and shared a vision of gradual growth and transformation that would lead to prosperity and renewal for all that call Plymouth home. Together, we’ve made great progress over the last almost four years, but we are just getting started. For our family, this is bigger than business – it’s legacy-defining work. On March 10th, support the Tenney Mountain Overlay District and help us bring good jobs, year-round recreation, and economic development to Plymouth,” said Steven Kelly, the owner of Tenney.
On Wednesday night, owner and GM Steven Kelly hosted a town hall-style event. During the presentation, he explained why they’re pushing for the district’s approval. He told the crowd that this is the next step needed to help develop the land responsibly, as the approval could attract investors who are currently turned off by the zoning.
What Would A Tenney Mountain Overlay District Look Like?
The first phase of development would focus on improving infrastructure (including the bumpy road) and the ski resort. Yes, that includes replacing the Hornet chairlift, which is nearly as old as the average Congressperson. Other focuses would include a mix of housing types, including workforce, market-rate, and luxury. A business park is also planned to attract science and technology businesses.
A master plan is under development, but won’t be released until the end of this year. Kelly doesn’t want to put something out there without the needed approvals.
There is obviously skepticism with this development, as demonstrated by some questions during the meeting. Plymouth has seen a lot of start/stops with Tenney, but I feel like Kelly’s construction background could be what the ski resort needs.
The vote is scheduled for March 10th, with the results being revealed either that evening or in the days following. We’ll keep you posted on the results and the latest development plans at Tenney.
Image Credits: Tenney Mountain, Pemi Baker TV
