Please see the following letter submitted to Steamboat Radio News, from the City of Steamboat Springs.
(NOTE: Here is more information on the parking announcement from Steamboat Resort. March 10, 2026 — Steamboat Resort announces specifics on pay-to-park plan for next season)
Recent announcements that Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp will introduce paid parking in the Meadows and Knoll lots starting next winter have understandably sparked discussion across our community.
Some reports have suggested that the city coordinated with the resort on these changes. To clarify, the city, nor the City Council, were involved in developing or implementing the resort’s paid parking program.
Council has heard from residents and business owners about how these changes could affect daily life, access to recreation, traffic patterns, and neighborhood livability. Questions have also been raised about affordability, fairness, and how travel behaviors may shift.
We recognize that for many across the Yampa Valley, ease of access to the mountain, including how parking works, is part of what makes this place unique, and changes to long-standing practices can be disruptive. We also recognize that both the city and the resort share an interest in maintaining a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable mountain community.
The city is committed to working constructively with the resort, local businesses, Steamboat Springs Transit, and community members to better understand these impacts and identify practical, community-informed solutions. Transportation challenges are complex, and a balanced approach must consider environmental sustainability, economic vitality, quality of life, and equitable access for all who live, work, and play here.
To support an open dialogue, City Council President Steve Muntean, city staff, representatives from Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp, and Sarah Leonard, Chief Executive Officer of the Steamboat Springs Chamber have scheduled the first of several meetings on April 13 to discuss potential impacts, mitigation strategies, and how best to communicate to and gain feedback from the community. An update on that meeting will be provided during City Council reports on the April 21st regular City Council meeting.
Community input is valuable as City Council explores this topic, so please share your thoughts, concerns, and solutions with City Council at citycouncil@steamboatsprings.net.
Steamboat Springs is strongest when we communicate openly, listen to one another, and work together on solutions that reflect the character and values of our community. We look forward to continuing this conversation and moving forward together.
Respectfully,
Steve Muntean, City Council President, District II
Gail Garey, City Council President Pro Tem, District I
Michael Buccino, City Council, District II
Amy Dickson, City Council, District III
Bryan Swintek, City Council, District I
John Agosta, City Council, District III
Dave Barnes, City Council, At-Large