Even the most perfect place needs a little TLC

every now and then

 

Lake Placid is undergoing a reconstruction initiative for its Main Street infrastructure. The goals of this project will be to upgrade our business district so that it will be sustainable for residents and travelers to enjoy for years to come. Main Street’s unique setting on the edge of Mirror Lake with shops, restaurants, and parks has experienced a tremendous amount of growth since it’s first conception in the 1800s and now it’s time for us to catch up! 

In addition, many of the Lake Placid Olympic Venues are undergoing renovations and improvements. The project is designed to prepare the sites for hosting the 2023 World University Games, to add new unique experiences for both residents and visitors, and to continue the Olympic legacy to be enjoyed by generations to come.

 

 

Main Street Improvement Updates

From September through November, work on Main Street will resume and traffic will be one way. Traffic on Hillcrest and Olympic Drive will be two way traffic. 

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Take the shuttle - it’s FREE!

To assist with the limited parking on Main Street, the free Placid Xprss buses and trolleys will be stopping at the Lake Placid Historical Society / train station parking lot at 242 Station Street in addition to stops along the current route. The Placid Xprss has several stops on Main Street. Both the shuttle and parking are FREE. The Placid Xprss runs from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays. The Placid Xprss schedule can be found on the Essex County website here.

Per NYS guidelines, masks are required to be worn on all public transportation.

Track the Xprss with the app!

The Village of Lake Placid has launched a new WebApp called “The Placid Express,” allowing locals and visitors a live-time feed of where the shuttle is located along its route. 

Access the app on any mobile device or computer by visiting tinyurl.com/mainstreetshuttletracker. Riders can also get the shuttle’s location by scanning a QR code located on posters at the old train station on Station Street, the Adirondack Corner Store, the Price Chopper bus stop, and both Stewart’s locations in Lake Placid. 

This app is a pilot program for the Essex County Transportation Department. Passengers have the ability to leave feedback after their ride which will be used to improve services. The Placid Xprss will continue to operate on its regular schedule, adding in a stop at the historical train station.

Benefits of perfecting Main Street

  • Create a more accessible Main Street that is inviting to everyone.
  • Enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians.
  • Preserve Mirror Lake for years to come by mitigating pollution.
  • Redesign infrastructure to meet the needs of businesses and residents.
  • Improve the visual appeal of Main Street to encourage return visits.

… all while maintaining Lake Placid’s friendly personality and unique character! After a day of outdoor activities, stroll Main Street and embrace the relaxing vibe while enjoying all the quaintness of downtown Lake Placid.

Upgrades at the Lake Placid Olympic Sites

This year, extensive renovations will be done to modernize and improve the Lake Placid Olympic Sites. The following sites are currently under renovation:

  • Speed Skating Oval (site closed) - Renovations to The Olympic Speed Skating Oval include upgrades to the refrigeration system to extend the skating season. In addition, a new building, and other visitor amenities are being constructed. 
  • 1932 Jack Shea Arena (site closed) - Did you know that The 1932 Jack Shea Area is the first Indoor Area in Olympic History? It sure is, and we are upgrading it so many generations can enjoy this icon. 
  • 1980 Herb Brooks Arena (site closed) - The site of the Miracle on Ice is also undergoing major renovations to improve and modernize. 
  • The elevator at the Whiteface Veteran’s Memorial Highway (open with limitations) - While the elevator may be under construction, visitors can still access the castle to soak in the spectacular 360-degree view via the footpath. 
  • The Olympic Museum (alternative location) - The Olympic Museum is under construction, however, you can experience the “Totally 80 – 80 Objects from the Lake Placid Olympic Museum” Exhibit Gallery presented by the Lake Placid Olympic Museum is available on the 2nd floor of the Conference Center. It is free and open to the public 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

While some of these sites may be closed, there are still a wide variety of unique Olympic experiences available to help round off your perfect Lake Placid getaway. Check out the Lake Placid Olympic Sites calendar for the latest operating schedule and offering at the venues.

 

 

Get the latest information 

For more information, please visit the village of Lake Placid's website or call the Lake Placid Visitors Bureau at 518-523-2445. 

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