The Town of Vail has concluded its Grant Relief Program as of March 31, which provided direct aid to businesses experiencing hardship due to the public health crisis. Developed by representatives of the Vail Economic Advisory Council with assistance from town staff, the grant program was authorized by the Vail Town Council on Feb. 2 in the amount of $500,000 and offered Vail businesses grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.

Building on the success of temporary adaptations made to keep businesses thriving during the pandemic, the Vail Town Council will consider first reading of two ordinances at its April 6 meeting that would provide additional allowances for outdoor alcohol consumption year-round and enhance outdoor entertainment. The ordinances are scheduled as action items on the virtual evening meeting agenda which begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Vail businesses are invited to apply for relief through the Grant Award Program (GAP), which provides direct aid to businesses experiencing hardship due to the public health crisis from now until March 31. Developed by representatives of the Vail Economic Advisory Council with assistance from town staff, the grant program was authorized by the Vail Town Council on Feb. 2 in the amount of $500,000 and will offer Vail businesses grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.

Vail’s frontline employees have persevered through the most difficult of times to provide guests with a positive experience this winter. There was Vicky, the restaurant employee, who went above and beyond to make a family feel welcome by showing an interest in the games the young boys were playing while their pizza was being prepared. Or Cindy, the bus driver, who brightens everyone’s morning with her friendly greeting and infectious smile. These are among the 60-plus examples submitted for recognition through the PrimaService award, a component of the PrimaVail guest service training initiative sponsored by the Town of Vail and Vail Chamber & Business Association.

The Vail Commission on Special Events is seeking proposals to produce a Famers’ Market in Lionshead this summer after a previously-selected event promoter is no longer available to produce such an event. Reponses are due March 29 and will be reviewed by the CSE at its April 7 meeting.