The Thom Storm Chalet has been part of Chester Bowl since the 1970’s. While many skiers and snowboarders have fond memories in the winter there’s several issues with the ski chalet.

The building has fallen into extreme dis-repair, it’s too small for programming needs, and is not accessible to everyone.

Dave Schaeffer, the Executive Director of Chester Bowl says they have been raising funds the past couple of years. The Growing Up Chester fundraising campaign has helped raised $950,000 to expand and completely renovate the Chalet.

“Our goal is to complete the design work in 2025 and begin construction in Spring 2026. We hope to be based out of the renovated space when our alpine season opens in December 2026,” Schaeffer said. “Just a little more than two years from now. Chester Bowl will also be raising the final 15% of the needed funds by pursuing a combination of business supporters, family and individual donations, and grants. We need the support of the community and people that believe in Chester Bowl’s mission to get us across the finish line.”

Schaeffer says the overall cost of the future chalet is estimated to be $3,850,000. However, the City of Duluth and Chester Bowl are recommended for $2,312,000 in funding from the Legislative Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources.

For more information about Growing Up Chester fundraiser for the Thom Storm Chalet project you can read more here. Also for other stories happening in Chester you can read more here.