CHERRY CREEK, N.Y. — Cockaigne Ski Resort in Cherry Creek officially has new owners: one from Ohio, the other from Sherman. The resort has sat idle for several years. The move caps off four years of developing a plan and securing the financing before purchasing about 400 acres. Plans call for new snow-making equipment, other upgrades and a 200,000-square foot lodge. The previous Austrian Pavilion burned to the ground during a devastating fire at the resort in January 2011. 

"Our new logo is a phoenix, so it's kind of rising from the ashes. It's amazing the support we've been given from the local community. And the people who used to ski here and the stories that have been told," said Isaac Gratto, Cockaigne managing member. "Like a dream come true. Mixing the old with the new. I mean it's going to be kind of old Cockaigne with a modern twist." The other owner is Adam Pirtz of Ohio.

Local business owners, like Nancy Hall of Rustic Creations, hasn't seen a dip in business, but more so her rental properties. She says she's been waiting a long time to hear that, unlike several others since the fire, this deal didn't fall through. Town leader and native Richard Walker remembers the night of the fire as well, and says he too is hopeful the resort will help boost the economy. 

Owners also plan to turn The Grainery across the street back into a restaurant. Both owners have more than 30 years’ experience in the ski industry, and hope to draw local and regional visitors from Ohio and Canada. The resort looks to open next fall.