Ski patrollers at Park City Mountain Resort, the largest ski resort in the U.S., have successfully reached a deal to end their strike that disrupted operations during the busy holiday season and into the new year. The agreement, set to run through April 2027, was announced in a joint statement by the ski patrollers' union executive board.
The strike, initiated by approximately 200 ski patrollers on December 27, was primarily driven by concerns over low wages in the face of high living costs in Park City, Utah. The resulting staffing shortage at the resort led to the closure of many ski runs and long lines at ski lifts, impacting the overall guest experience.
The Park City Professional Ski Patrollers Association had been in negotiations since March, advocating for a wage increase from $21 to $23 per hour, citing the steep inflation rates since 2022. The union argued that $27 per hour was a more sustainable wage in the expensive Park City area, where the cost of living is notably high.
In addition to the wage increase, ski patrollers also sought higher pay for those with longer tenures, proposing adjustments to the current pay scale that currently tops out after five years of service.
The strike garnered support from some skiers, who voiced their solidarity with the ski patrollers by chanting 'Pay your employees!' from lift lines, as seen in videos shared on social media.
The agreement, which remains confidential in terms of specific details, is expected to address the interests of both parties and facilitate the return to normal resort operations. The ski patrollers expressed their anticipation for moving forward collaboratively as a unified team.
With the strike now resolved, Park City Mountain Resort can look ahead to providing a more seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors, while the ski patrollers can focus on their crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of guests on the slopes.
