See success on the Summit

In response to the article “Develop or Die” (Jan. 9 Sierra Sun), I am a Royal Gorge skier and would like to see it successful, but at what cost to the community? The developers, Foster and Syme, bought the Royal Gorge property knowing it was losing money, to develop the property, not to save the cross-country ski resort. That is why their plan shows the vast majority of the new development built around “Ski Camp,” a new downhiil resort connecting to Sugar Bowl. The Foster-Syme plan is, however, different than most other ski resort developments.

Their plan is to surround a residential community with four “camps,” not just keeping high-density condos in a parking lot, forever changing Serene Lakes and Donner Summit. It is true that some people moved here to ski at Royal Gorge. But the vast majority of residents and homeowners did not. It would be sad to lose Royal Gorge, but it is possible to someday have a public ski trail system. That would really be a benefit to the community.

There is so much more to Donner Summit than just Royal Gorge that is worth saving. Please don't let Foster-Syme-Livak get away with their spin, that they are just developing to save a ski resort. It's about making millions for themselves.

Nancy Latimer

Soda Springs