Request For Proposals For Blue Hill Ski Area Operation Issued

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is accepting responsive proposals for Recreation Operations and 25 Year Lease at Great Blue Hill Ski Area, in Milton and Canton Massachusetts. Blue Hills Ski Area is the closest ski area to a major city in the entire U.S., located just minutes south of Boston and 30 minutes north of Providence, RI. It is quick and convenient to get on the slopes with access from highways 95, 93, and Route 128, even mass transit.

Located only minutes from the bustle of downtown Boston, the DCR Blue Hills Reservation stretches over 7,000 acres from Quincy to Dedham, Milton to Randolph, providing a green oasis in an urban environment. Rising above the horizon, Great Blue Hill reaches a height of 635 feet, the highest of the 22 hills in the Blue Hills chain. From the rocky summit visitors can see over the entire metropolitan area. With its scenic views, varied terrain and 125 miles of trails, the Blue Hills Reservation offers year round enjoyment for the outdoor enthusiast.

There are eight ski/snowboard trails on approximately sixty (60) skiable acres. Proposers will be encouraged to explore, establish, manage and operate year-round activities (such as hiking, summer lift, or lodge based events) to maximize use of the Premises. The current operation has a snowmaking system as well as a nighttime lighting system. A competitive water rate is available to the licensee for snowmaking.

There are two main buildings located at the base of the mountain. One building (newer in age) houses a complete rental shop and first aid treatment area. The second main building (older in age, hereinafter the “Lodge”) contains a full service cafeteria and seating area, ski and snowboard shop, lift ticket sale windows and office space (second (2nd) floor). Auxiliary buildings include, one (1) first aid patrol “staging and warm-up” building (no running water) and one fixed structure with two (2) garage bays.

There is one main parking area located below but adjacent to the two main aforementioned buildings with approximately one hundred (100) parking spaces. There is a smaller parking area near the second main area that may be used for staff or visitors with extra accessibility needs. There is a Park ‘n’ Ride lot owned by the Commonwealth that is used by patrons and visitors in the winter. The current licensee transports visitors from that lot to the ski area.

Proposers will be required to assess their need for equipment, as well as the proper maintenance, storage and removal of such equipment, considering other uses and users of the park and buildings. Proposers should consider the security of such equipment and stored items. DCR will not be responsible for damaged or stolen merchandise or equipment. DCR provides only the location and does not guarantee the status or usability of any existing building or storage areas. No equipment (e.g., cash registers, counters, screens, signs) is provided by DCR.

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