Dear Vail Town Council members:
Vail Valley Partnership (VVP) is the regional chamber of commerce representing Eagle County, Colorado. Our organization has over 840 member organizations, representing over 80% of the local workforce within the valley.
As you are aware, the Marriott Residence Inn and Workforce Housing project proposes both a mid-range hotel product and much needed workforce housing, in addition to public parking, all aligned our list of priorities. As such, the Vail Valley Partnership Board of Directors have voted unanimously to give the proposed Marriott Residence Inn and Workforce Housing project our full and enthusiastic endorsement.
We feel this project addresses several critical issues facing Vail and Eagle County:
- The dire need for deed-restricted workforce housing with 107 apartments
- Mid-priced, or entry-level, lodging options with 130 units
- Underground parking and numerous other public benefits
Through our lens of economic vitality and business success, this project is exactly what is needed in Eagle County. The project’s location within the town of Vail and in close proximity to the commercial district of West Vail is another plus. We believe it is important to provide housing within developed areas and within easy access to transit and close to jobs.
Additionally, we believe now is the time to take bold steps to address the needs of the Vail and Eagle County communities, both business and residential, relative to both workforce housing and addressing entry-level lodging options. This project checks every box and does so with a thoughtful and impressive design, careful consideration of the surrounding neighborhood, and located in the highly desirable town of Vail. It is a tremendous win for Vail as far as the Vail Valley Partnership is concerned, and we consider ourselves very fortunate that the developer has proposed this project at this time.
We strongly and respectfully urge the members of town council to consider the many public benefits of this project as it moves through the approval process. Please do not let this opportunity pass us by.
Best regards,
Chris Romer
President & CEO
Vail Valley Partnership