Olympic Winter Games, 1980, Lake Placid, North Elba and Wilmington and vicinity : environmental impact statement.

Lake Placid, North Elba, and Wilmington, Essex County, New YorkComplete

The 1980 Winter Olympic Games were proposed to be held in Lake Placid, North Elba, and Wilmington, New York. The event aimed to boost the local economy and provide long-term sports facilities. However, it raised concerns about environmental impacts, such as noise, increased traffic, and potential damage to the Adirondack Park's wilderness. The community faced temporary disruptions during the games, but the project promised economic benefits, including job creation and increased tourism. The Environmental Impact Statement addressed these issues, weighing the benefits against potential adverse effects on the environment and community.

Year

1977

Department

United States. Economic Development Administration

Historical Context

The 1980 Winter Olympic Games were proposed to stimulate the local economy of Lake Placid, North Elba, and Wilmington, New York, while also providing lasting sports facilities. Despite the potential economic benefits, there was significant public concern regarding environmental impacts, including noise and traffic increases, as well as the risk of harming the surrounding Adirondack Park. Ultimately, the games were held, and while there were temporary disruptions, the anticipated economic advantages were realized, contributing to the region's tourism and job market.

Notable Quotes

  • "The construction of the ski tower may cause those seeking a true wilderness experience to avoid the Lake Placid vicinity in the Adirondacks and seek other areas where man-made structures have not been permitted to degrade a natural environment." — Grace Pierce, The Wilderness Society
  • "The proposed 90 meter ski-jump tower need not have an adverse impact on the nearby Historic Site. It is most important that a public forum for the review of Environmental Impact of new development has been provided." — William C. Shopsin, AIA, Deputy NY State Preservation Coordinator

Key People and Groups

  • Economic Development Administration
  • Lake Placid Olympic Organizing Committee
  • New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
  • Sierra Club
  • The Wilderness Society
Attribution
Materials published by the U.S. Government Printing Office are in the public domain and, as such, not subject to copyright restriction. However, the Libraries request users to cite the URL and Northwestern University Libraries if they wish to reproduce images from this site.

Themes

  • Transportation Infrastructure
  • Urban Development
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