Lake Placid, NY (Friday, July 14, 2006) -

Ski and snowboard visits were up at ORDA-operated facilities in 2005-06, including New York State's Whiteface Mountain ski area. (FTO file photo: ORDA)

An independent economic impact statement has concluded that the events and activities of the New York Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) in Lake Placid, including ski and snowboard operations at ORDA-operated Gore and Whiteface Mountain Ski Areas generated over $356 million statewide in 2004-05. Approximately $323.7 million of that total was felt directly and indirectly in Essex, Franklin, Clinton and Warren counties.

Extensive snowmaking and grooming efforts enabled Whiteface and Gore mountains to outpace their 2004-05 efforts by 17,618 and 10,758 skier days, respectively, despite a challenging Northeastern winter. Both ski and ride areas closed April 16.

Since 1982, ORDA has operated, promoted and upgraded the venues that were used in the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Winter Games. ORDA maintains these sites for training and competition and the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

"Over the past 12 years, Governor Pataki has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to the Adirondacks and North Country, with more than $60 million invested in capital improvements to keep ORDA venues in state-of-the-art condition," said Empire State Development Corporation Chairman and ORDA Chairman Charles A. Gargano. "As this report illustrates, these investments have had a significant, positive impact on the community. Since tourism is such an integral part of the economy in the Olympic region, it is imperative that we continue to promote both world-class and community events at these venues so that local municipalities, residents and businesses will enjoy the benefits."

The report was researched and completed by the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) at the State University of New York at Plattsburgh.