Developers seek to buy a piece of land from the Grand Canyon Railway and build a $700 million theme park in the Route 66 town of Williams, Ariz., reports the Arizona Daily Sun.
It sounds like an awfully ambitious plan, however. Developers think they can draw 8 million to 10 million visitors to theme park, which is double what the Grand Canyon north of town sees each year.
Attractions at the park could include a performing arts pavilion, two roller coasters, a western theme park, a Route 66 attraction with sock hops, soda shops and car rallies and a Renaissance-Medieval section with a castle and jousting pit. A car sales area is also planned, which would sell cars with the park’s 9 percent tax.
Understandably, the county has asked for business plans and feasibility studies. The developers also have to secure $500 million in investment before they can acquire revenue bonds.
Color me skeptical.
The type of theme park you are describing will not indure. Forget the
Renaissance-Medieval section, unless you hire Harry Potter. It won’t be impressive. Families enjoy theme parks such as Great America located just north of San Jose, California. Then at the same time you can set aside land for further development for future rides, etc..
Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket, Then on top of that a car sales area. Why don’t you add a car repair shop at the same time. Focus on the theme park. Western theme park is by far other then what is being proposed. You asked for a comment and I am giving one. My experience involved with projects for Universal Studios, and various other theme parks. My Company was in charge of bringing the various projects within budget. I am experience with success, and this is the expertise opinion you needed.