How Much Has Jackson Really Changed?

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jackson hole national geographicThrough the Eyes of a Native

In 1976, National Geographic published an article about the changes that Jackson Hole has undergone since the first settlers came to the valley in 1807. Through numerous interviews with locals, the author recounted the changing character and future development of Jackson.  Almost 40 years later, it is comforting to see that most of their forecasts have not materialized.

Californication?

It hasn’t happened. Unlike what the locals in 1976 predicted, Jackson has not, nor will ever feel the effects of a California suburban sprawl— luckily, there have been too many powerful agencies, preservation societies, and land-use controls put in place for that kind of high-density development to take place. I imagine in 1976, locals feared that the majority of those relocating here would want to change and develop it for the worse.  In actuality, people migrating to Jackson tend to immediately fall in love with its low-key flavor and wide-open spaces and thus become equally as preservation-minded as their predecessors; furthermore, many of these individuals possess the resources to support conservation and to ensure that any changes or developments occur in a graceful manner.

Some change is good, right?

Yes, there is no doubt that Jackson continues to change. I remember for instance, as a little girl, when Teton Village essentially consisted of the Clock Tower, The Hostel, The Alpenhof and The Mangy Moose. Since then, the number of luxury hotels, restaurants and residential development has grown steadily in that area. On a similar note, I remember when the Pink Garter Theatre was one of the only entertainment venues in town. Now with the Center for the Arts, and a wide array of museums and galleries and restaurants scattered about, Jackson has a new cultural component that is attracting a wider demographic. I personally think this is wonderful, especially given that Jackson has maintained its character and integrity along the way—after all, “Movieworks” and “The Twin” are still the only theatres in town!

Hesitation and Fear Remains…But

I don’t look at any of this without some skepticism on my own part. I can’t say I am very fond of the some of the hotels, banks and merchandise shops that have popped up around the Town of Jackson over the years, but, I must admit, that most, if not all, development has been carried through with good taste. Unlike California, or other ski towns such as Vail or Park City, there is no interstate sprawl with billboards, fast food chains and house- after –similarly- themed -house lining the roads or spoiling the natural splendor. Part of this, I believe, is Jackson’s favorable proximity to Grand Teton National Park—without it, we might have a different view in every sense of the word.

My Take

I feel so fortunate to have grown up in this magical place with its almost impossible natural beauty. I love that I can still drive along Highway 22 and see open ranchlands that have not changed since my childhood and that I can go to sleep every night and feel confident knowing that I will wake up to the same dramatic views of the mountains each morning.  But mostly, I am grateful that we can look back at an article published almost 40 years ago and say, “thank goodness that isn’t and won’t be us.”