Our hearts go out to those in our community and in the surrounding towns of Ludlow, Plymouth, Bridgewater, Woodstock and all others across the state that have experienced extreme flood damage and setbacks. Despite Friday’s mudslide blocking Route 4, destroying most of East Mountain Road and Bear Mountain Road, flooding the Skyeship Base Lodge and Bear Mountain Base Lodge – our town was very lucky. Once again we came together to support and help where needed! Vermonters look out for each other!
On Saturday, Governor Phil Scott and State representative Jim Harrison paid Killington a visit to assess the damage and see how the state could assist our community.
On Monday, Dream Maker Bakers basement was flooding and they needed to find freezer space fast. There was an outpouring of support from the resort and members of the community. First Stop took extra precautions by sleeping on a paddle board and managed to divert rising water. Unfortunately, the Back Behind was not as lucky and is still assessing damages.
Visitors to the Welcome Center appreciated the extra large map of road closures, via a large TV that was graciously provided by our Selectmen and the town. Amazingly, Route 4 to Woodstock had reopened by Wednesday. The Vermont Agency of Transportation had 106 road closures this week, and now there are only 16 left! It is incredible that this was accomplished so quickly. We are blessed by the hard work and dedication of so many local excavation and construction companies.
We had a large contingent of Red Cross delegates staying here in Killington and being dispatched to various affected areas. Vermonters can begin applying for financial help through FEMA flood recovery by calling 1-800-621-3362 or visiting diasterassistance.gov. Many from far and wide ask how else can we help?! Check in with your neighbors. Support local businesses like Darkside Snowboards that lost so much of their inventory. They were hit hard in their Ludlow location and it is closed for the foreseeable future. This weekend they are having a huge sale of what they were able to salvage in their Killington store. For other ideas and ways to help visit vermontcf.org/
Many around us will need to rebuild and start over. How can you help? Purchase gift cards for food, clothing, and building supply stores to give to those communities that lost so much. Open your doors to those that might need shelter. A couple of our members have offered stalls and space for large animals. The Vermont Community Foundation has established the VT Flood Response and Recovery Fund 2023 to coordinate and distribute support to communities most in need. Last but certainly not least, encourage people to visit us. Spread the word through social media and all of your networks to travelers coming to our wonderful community and to all your fans to let them know that KILLINGTON IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
We are Vermont Strong, supporting our community in not only good times but also in challenging times!
Beth, Kelly & the KPAA Team
