'Urban trailhead' to open at Tahoe

Heavenly Village's Transit Center in South Lake Tahoe will soon add an educational component, with the opening in July of an interpretive center called "Explore Tahoe."

The project, described as an "urban trailhead," will be on the transit center's ground floor and host exhibits detailing the importance of alternative transportation to the protection of Lake Tahoe's natural resources.

The $1.4 million project has been funded primarily by the California Tahoe Conservancy, with assistance from the city of South Lake Tahoe, the U.S. Forest Service, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and South Tahoe Public Utility District.

Explore Tahoe's location in the transit center was chosen because it will be the only public visitor information or interpretive facility within walking distance of the nearly 7,000 hotel rooms in the Stateline area, according to conservancy staff recommendations.

From the sound of it, the exterior design of the center should have no problems attracting visitors and residents alike.

"We have simulated a stream bed using crushed glass pavers in a mosaic pattern as you're walking into the building," said Debbie Vreeland, project manager. "Then, as you get into the building, glass fish and ribbons simulate being underwater and rising to the top."

Once inside, visitors will be provided with information on recreational activities within the basin and how to access such sites via public transportation.

Interactive exhibits and presentations designed for children will also be part of the center.

Explore Tahoe was originally scheduled to open in January 2008. In an effort to reach a larger audience quickly, the center has been scheduled to open this July, according to Vreeland.

Although the project manager was hopeful for a Fourth of July weekend opening, the date remains tentative.