I meant to post about this the other day, but it just slid off my radar. SeaWorld has been given permission by the county to go ahead with construction on its, as yet un-named, Water Park. Nearby residents were upset at the plans to build on a piece of property a relatively short distance away. But that plot has been designated for attractions since before the homes were built, so they really didn’t have a leg to stand on. SeaWorld is generally a good neighbor, so I don’t see any longterm problems here.
In fact, having a water park next door will help SeaWorld compete as Wet-n-Wild is moved to the Universal Studios property (the lease on the land it sits on expires shortly). Disney already has two water parks. Water Parks make the perfect half-day excursion for families that have arrived early or are leaving late on vacation. With an estimated attendance of 5,000 to 7,000 a day, that’s extra money in the pockets of business owners who are located nearby. That’s also good news.
My advice to my neighbors in Williamsburg development, look at the silver lining here and set up a business, vacation rental, etc.. that will line your pockets with some silver of your own. Everybody is doing it.