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CRESTED BUTTE PRIVATE SECTOR JOINS FORCES WITH TELLURIDE AND MONTROSE TO SUPPORT NEW ALLEGIANT AIR SERVICE

MONTROSE, CO – (October 30, 2012) Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) and the Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization (TMRAO) inked a letter of intent recently, committing CBMR’s support of the Allegiant Air direct flights to the Montrose Regional Airport from the San Francisco and Phoenix areas this winter. The twice-weekly direct flights (Wednesdays and Saturdays) will begin in December from Oakland International Airport (OAK) and Phoenix-Mesa airport (IWA).

“The Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization (TMRAO) has been researching and pursuing a low-cost carrier for more than a year,” said Scott Stewart, TMRAO Executive Director. “These new flights add an additional 10,000 seats to this winter’s air service and will have a very positive economic impact on the region’s economy.”
After making a pitch earlier this year to the Gunnison Valley Rural Transportation Authority, Crested Butte Mountain Resort and the Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association, the TMRAO Executive Director, Scott Stewart and the Telluride Tourism Board’s President and CEO, Michael Martelon continued discussions with the resort.  The RTA, with the advice of its consultant Kent Meyers, decided to pass on the opportunity, as did the Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association.

“From our perspective, we would be missing an opportunity by not finding a way to participate in the Allegiant air service,” said Jeff Moffett, Director of Crested Butte Vacations. “After seeing the potential, the Elevation Hotel and Spa pitched in as well, which we certainly appreciate. We have been looking for ways to collaborate on shared Crested Butte – Telluride passes and ticket products, which we feel will only enhance regional efforts and the destination of Southwest Colorado as a whole. Our hope is that we are creating a great foundation for future regional destination efforts with Gunnison, Crested Butte, Montrose and Telluride.”
This winter, Allegiant will offer an introductory round-trip fare from Oakland (OAK) from as low as $129 and from Phoenix starting as low as $130 round-trip.

Securing Allegiant as a new airline partner represents an unprecedented regional collaborative effort and perseverance between the City of Montrose, the Town of Telluride, the Town of Mountain Village, Telluride Ski Resort, Montrose Regional Airport, Crested Butte Mountain Resort, the Telluride Tourism Board and the Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization.

About Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization:
TMRAO exists to stimulate local economic development by attracting and retaining air service to the Montrose and Telluride region. This is done mainly through revenue guarantees or other risk mitigation partnerships. Without a risk mitigation partnership, most commercial airlines would not fly into the region at the level necessary to sustain the region’s tourism-driven economy. The Colorado Department of Transportation estimates the total economic activity impact to the region from air service to the Montrose and Telluride airports is more than $470 million annually. For more information on TMRAO, visit www.flytelluride-montrose.com.

About Crested Butte:
Situated in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is committed to preserving the pristine landscape and mountain lifestyle. With vibrant Victorian store fronts and expressive local characters, the small historic town remains true to its heritage and radiates an unparalleled welcoming and inviting spirit that celebrates a simpler life and time. Thanks to a widely diverse landscape, outdoor enthusiasts of all levels will find a new challenge with each visit. From world-class mountain biking, to legendary skiing and snowboarding, to a secluded fly-fishing experience, Crested Butte is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. For more information about Crested Butte's lodging, conference, meeting facilities, and special packages, call Crested Butte Vacations, 800- 600-2803 or visit the web site at www.skicb.com. 

About Elevation Hotel and Spa:
Located at the base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, just steps from outdoor and village pursuits, the Elevation Hotel & Spa features a modern mountain luxury experience with warm service and a relaxed pace. This distinctive ski-in/ski-out resort property effortlessly blends aspects of a cozy ski lodge with hip, urban décor and contemporary design. The public spaces invite gatherings and conversation, while each unique guest room promises relaxation and true comfort. For more information visit www.elevationhotelandspa.com or call Crested Butte Vacations at 800-600-2803.

About Telluride
Nestled within Southwest Colorado’s dramatic San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, (elevation: 8,750 ft.) is known for its world-class alpine skiing, awe-inspiring landscapes and vibrant summer festival season. The former mining town lies in a box canyon, surrounded on all three sides by 14,000-foot peaks, providing the ideal environment for hiking, mountain biking, trail running and other outdoor activities. Telluride is linked to the neighboring Mountain Village (elevation: 9,540) by a free, scenic gondola – the only transportation system of its kind in North America. For more information or to book a Telluride vacation, visit www.visittelluride.com or call 888-605-2578.

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