Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Approves Amendments to Homewood, CA, Master Plan

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In December, the TRPA recommended approval of Homewoodโ€™s amendments with the request to clarify key terms in the public access plan, monitoring, and enforcement. Credit: Homewood Mountain Resort

Updated January 23, 2025

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Governing Board deliberated on proposed updates to the Homewood Master Plan during its scheduled meeting on Wednesday, January 22. The meeting took place both in person at TRPAโ€™s offices in Stateline, Nevada, and virtually via a live webinar.

At the meeting the governing board approved the amendments to the Homewood Mountain Resort Master Plan that allows reinvestment in the historic Lake Tahoe ski resort while ensuring Homewood will continue to be open to the public. Hundreds of in-person and online attendees participated in the meeting, reflecting the importance of Homewood to the Tahoe Basin community. Previously approved projects to add accommodations and commercial uses at the base areas were reduced in size with updated architecture. The Governing Board also approved a permit for Homewood to begin construction of a new gondola to replace the main chairlift at the resortโ€™s North Base to improve skier access.

โ€œThe Homewood Master Plan approval today includes enforceable standards that will ensure the beloved West Shore resort can be revitalized while remaining open to the public,โ€ TRPA Executive Director Julie Regan said. โ€œReinvestment in Lake Tahoeโ€™s communities brings critical environmental improvements and community benefits, and this underscores that it can also support sustainable and accessible public recreation.โ€

The agency received over 1,500 comments from the public regarding the projects. Credit: Homewood Mountain Resort

The Homewood Mountain Resort Master Plan aims to preserve the resortโ€™s role as a central gathering place for Lake Tahoeโ€™s West Shore while honoring its heritage as a recreational destination for both residents and visitors. The long-term strategy must also align with regional objectives, including environmental sustainability, enhanced public access to outdoor activities, and improved wildfire and public safety measures.

In May 2024, Homewoodโ€™s ownership submitted an application to TRPA to update its 2011 Master Plan. The agency has since conducted a thorough review and collected public feedback through hearings held in September and December. These discussions highlighted the need for further clarification, particularly regarding public access to the resort.

The original 2011 Master Plan envisioned new residential, commercial, and visitor accommodation spaces, along with improvements in water quality, forest health, transportation, and parking. The proposed amendments aim to refine the layout, scale, and architectural design of previously approved projects. Additionally, the updated plan includes a permit for a new gondola near the resortโ€™s base to enhance skier access.

This year, Homewood plans to continue its 250-acre forest fuel reduction initiative and finalize a partnership with the North Tahoe Fire Protection District to expand fire services, strengthen emergency response capabilities, and facilitate wildfire evacuation efforts. These proposed changes reflect Homewoodโ€™s commitment to balancing its legacy as a cherished recreational destination with the evolving needs of the community and the environment.

A view of Homewood Mountain Resort from Lake Tahoe. Photo Credit: Homewood Mountain Resort
A view of Homewood Mountain Resort from Lake Tahoe. Credit: Homewood Mountain Resort

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