Palmer, Alaska – December 19, 2018 – MTA, Alaska’s premier technology company, announced today that it will become the official communications partner of Hatcher Alpine Xperience (HAX), a nonprofit, member-driven organization working to bring lift-access, downhill skiing, boarding and other alpine sports to Hatcher Pass through its new alpine ski area, Skeetawk.
MTA will power Skeetawk’s data, video, voice and other communications with fiber connectivity, ensuring fast, safe, and reliable communication needs for those mountain enthusiasts looking to plug in and connect between trips down the area’s 6+ miles of trails. Additionally, MTA has committed to a three-year sponsorship of Skeetawk’s Ski Patrol, fully outfitting them with the tools and equipment necessary to ensure the safety of those on the mountain.
The fiber extension that makes this partnership possible is leading the way for larger opportunity for economic development in Alaska, further expanding MTA’s goal of providing the means necessary to create more plugged-in and technologically intelligent communities throughout the state.
Skeetawk is a result of HAX’s years-long work toward bringing a downhill ski area to the Talkeetna Mountains northwest of Palmer, Alaska. Hatcher Pass, a destination known for its early-season snow, gorgeous mountain views and terrain ideal for winter sports and activities.
The volunteer-driven HAX received a $500,000 grant from the Mat-Su Health Foundation in late 2017, which was just released after raising matching funds through MTA, Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation, MEA Charitable Foundation, North Lakes Community Council, and a $350,000 grant from the Rasmuson Foundation in 2018, in addition to funds from various private members, donors and sponsors. Skeetawk aiming to open for the 2019-20 ski season.
“When we were deciding how to approach our communications planning for Skeetawk, we valued fast, safe, reliable service and a great all-around partner above all else, so handing the communications aspect to a trusted company like MTA was a no-brainer,” said Amy O’Connor, Executive Director of HAX. “Their fiber connectivity allows us to showcase our new community-focused ski area, allowing our visitors to share their positive experience and smiles with the world while also providing us the necessary connections to keep our guests safe upon its opening.”
“The process that has brought this amazing new alpine ski area to Hatcher Pass has been inspiring, and MTA is honored to be serving as its official communications partner,” said Michael Burke, CEO of MTA. “MTA takes pride in helping aid economic expansion throughout Alaska, and this ski area is a prime example of that. The whole MTA family is excited to be a part of this major new destination, and we are looking forward to hitting the slopes ourselves when Skeetawk is open later next year.”