Teton Commissioners adjust Snake River Ranch Resort developments

Teton County, Wyoming Commissioners say changes to the existing Snake River Ranch Resort district should bring benefits to the community.

Under the revisions, approved Thursday, the Trust for Public Lands will move forward to acquire property that is home to the historic Astoria Hot Springs. The action also protected an important Snake River scenic corridor by transferring resort entitlements. A previously approved 98 acres will be relocated to an area of 18.5 acres, located away from the Snake River.

The decision will also amend some other controversial provisions of the original Snake River Ranch Resort plan. It will reduce resort zoning from 195 acres to 11 acres and reduce overall development square footage from 307,500 square feet to 219,000 square feet.

Commission Chair Barbara Allen commented, “Today’s approvals paved the way for the Trust for Public Land to begin work on the reopening of a significant and beloved community asset in Astoria Hot Springs. It is very exciting for this community that the Trust for Public Land and private partners have committed to such an endeavor. But even without this incredible asset, today’s changes to the resort master plan, in my opinion, were of significant community benefit. The development footprint of the resort was much reduced. The square footage potential was reduced. A scenic corridor along the river that previously had the potential for structures right along the banks was better protected. The one percent transfer fee on each sale to provide teacher housing was reaffirmed.”