In the next 10 years, part of the face of Crystal Bay could change dramatically. A multi-building resort community could replace the worn-down facade of the Tahoe Biltmore, according to Boulder Bay LLC, the developers of the Biltmore site.

"We feel like there are some significant changes that have to happen in this area for the North shore to be a strong, economically viable community," said Roger Wittenberg, CEO of Boulder Bay.

Tentatively the plans for the site include fractional units, a hotel, dining, retail, a spa, fitness center and employee housing. The development would also include a park on the former Tahoe Mariner site and an area to filter stormwater on the property.

The developers said they anticipate the site would result in a decrease in traffic similar to what the South Shore experienced after its redevelopment. Part of the site's plan is to incorporate multi-modal transit so people can arrive at the site and not get into their cars until they leave.

However, some residents were concerned that the introduction of a resort with possibly 400 units between hotel and fractional ownership would create an increase in traffic that the area would not be able to handle.

"I'm concerned mainly about the highway traffic," said Evelyn Pearce, a Crystal Bay resident who lives near State Route 28.

Still others were concerned about congestion in the case of an emergency in the basin like a fire or earthquake.

"I think traffic and safety have historically been a big problem," said Paul Reynolds. "People have always wondered in the case of an emergency how do we get out of the basin? And I don't think there's an easy solution."

At a community meeting Tuesday night some residents suggested that the developers work with local fire agencies and traffic planners to make sure the project doesn't bottle neck the North Shore.

"We don't have a firm development program," said Lew Feldman, a spokesman for the project. "This is a work in progress; we are anxious to hear your input."

Boulder Bay is being proposed as a community enhancement program to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency. The CEP is a competitive process that seeks net gain solutions for the Tahoe Basin that implement environmental improvements, enhance the quality of life for residents, improve the visitor experience and contribute to the long-term economic vitality of the region. Projects chosen for the CEP will be given a commitment to timely revitalization and incentives related to successful implementation. If chosen for the CEP, Boulder Bay will ask for special height considering, mixed use parking credits and tourist accommodation bonus units.

As part of the CEP process, Boulder Bay has to solicit the community for its input at different meetings.

While residents had safety and traffic concerns at the meeting, overall they said they were excited to see part of Crystal Bay revitalized.

"I'm encouraged," Ann Reynolds, a Crystal Bay resident, said. "I'm excited to see once they get some problems worked out."