Stevens Pass ski resort has a new general manager after mounting complaints from customers about poor service and limited operations of its lifts.

Property owner Vail Resorts has replaced Tom Pettigrew with Tom Fortune, who currently manages Heavenly Ski Resort in California, on an interim basis.

Nearly 40,000 skiers and snowboarders have signed a petition demanding that Vail boost staffing at Stevens Pass and open up more of its closed off terrain for activity.

And almost 90 complaints naming Stevens Pass have been filed with the Washington Secretary of State's Office during the current ski season.

The announcement of Fortune arrival was made Wednesday.

Fortune has a history at Stevens Pass, having worked there for two decades before leaving in 1999.

“I grew up at Stevens Pass and my ski career started here, too," said Fortune in a Stevens Pass blogpost.

Fortune also said changes would be made at the resort.

I understand how special Stevens Pass is. I also know many of you are frustrated – and we’ve heard you," said Fortune.

"I’m taking an interim GM assignment here to support operational improvement, work towards getting the mountain open as quickly and safely as possible, and to positively change your experience with us."  

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