The effort to modernize one of Southern Oregon’s most recognizable recreation destinations is moving forward, although project leaders say additional community support will be necessary before construction can begin. The nonprofit organization that operates Mt. Ashland has announced an updated timeline for replacing the aging Windsor Chairlift, one of the ski area’s most significant infrastructure projects in recent decades.
Under the revised schedule, construction on the Windsor Chairlift replacement is expected to begin in the spring of 2027, with installation of the new Ariel Chairlift planned for 2028. The updated timeline follows fundraising challenges that prevented the project from moving ahead during the 2026 construction season.
Mt. Ashland Association, which operates the ski area as a nonprofit community organization, reports that approximately $1.87 million still must be raised to complete the Windsor Chairlift replacement. Officials say the project remains one of the organization’s highest priorities because of the chairlift’s importance to daily operations and the long-term sustainability of the mountain.
Unlike many larger destination resorts, Mt. Ashland operates under a nonprofit model that emphasizes affordable public access to outdoor recreation. Revenue generated through lift tickets, passes and other operations is used to cover employee wages, insurance costs, routine maintenance and other operational expenses. Major capital improvement projects, including chairlift replacements, rely heavily on donations, grants and fundraising efforts rather than operating revenue alone.
To help accelerate fundraising, the Karen & Sid DeBoer Foundation has pledged a $500,000 matching contribution toward the chairlift replacement campaign. The matching commitment means eligible community donations made during the campaign will have twice the financial impact, providing an opportunity to move the project closer to its funding goal.
The Windsor Chairlift replacement represents one of the largest capital investments undertaken by the organization in recent years. Infrastructure projects of this scale typically require years of planning, engineering, permitting and fundraising before construction can begin. Replacing aging lift systems is considered essential for maintaining safe, reliable access to mountain terrain while supporting future operations.
Mt. Ashland serves residents and visitors throughout Southern Oregon and Northern California, offering winter skiing and snowboarding as well as seasonal recreational opportunities during warmer months. The mountain has long been recognized as a regional destination for outdoor recreation, youth programs and community events, attracting families, school groups and outdoor enthusiasts for generations.
Association leaders say preserving and improving the ski area’s infrastructure is an investment in the region’s long-term recreational future. Maintaining reliable lift operations helps ensure continued access for local residents while supporting tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities that contribute to the area’s economy.
Although the fundraising goal has not yet been reached, project organizers say community participation will remain a critical part of bringing the replacement project to completion. Donations from individuals, businesses and supporting organizations will continue to play a central role in financing the remaining costs before construction begins next year.
If fundraising milestones are met as anticipated, work on replacing the Windsor Chairlift will begin in 2027, followed by installation of the new Ariel Chairlift in 2028, marking a significant milestone in the continuing modernization of one of Southern Oregon’s most established community ski areas.