No Aquatic Center in Ellensburg?
ELLENSBURG - Empty land is the problem in Ellensburg where an aquatic center is way behind schedule. Last year the developer told KIMA, the water park would be finished by late this summer. But we discovered, not one building permit has been turned into the city. And the future seems questionable.
" I was expecting to see a lot more than just level ground right now," said Michele Templeman.
So were a lot of folks all hoping to dip their feet in the cool water of Lakeside Landing this summer. But all that's standing at the proposed water park site are the water and sewer lines that have been put in. Streets, curbs and sidewalks are done. Even lighting. But no buildings.
The Ellensburg City Planning Department is constantly fielding calls about the water park.
" That's all they want to talk about, it's the water park. When's it coming? It just created a buzz," said Mike Smith, Ellensburg Director of Community Development.
A buzz that's not dying down anytime soon. Nine lots have been created. Not just for a water park, but for additional hotels, restaurants and office space.
Several area businesses were also hoping the water park would be a lot further along by now. They're wanting to fill empty parking spots and get more business through their doors.
Templeman, Manager for Wing Central's Road House Grill said, " We're definitely looking forward to having more consistency and just an increase in business in general."
KIMA called the developer several times to ask about the delay in construction. He has not yet returned our call.
Smith said, " I suspect the economic downturn has slowed them down."
Folks in Ellensburg are just hoping it hasn't put a stop to their future water park altogether.
If it's finished, Lakeside Landing is expected to bring in about 20 million dollars year to Ellensburg's economy. We'll keep after the developer to find out what the hold up is... And when the park will be open for business. You'll know as soon as we do.
" I was expecting to see a lot more than just level ground right now," said Michele Templeman.
So were a lot of folks all hoping to dip their feet in the cool water of Lakeside Landing this summer. But all that's standing at the proposed water park site are the water and sewer lines that have been put in. Streets, curbs and sidewalks are done. Even lighting. But no buildings.
The Ellensburg City Planning Department is constantly fielding calls about the water park.
" That's all they want to talk about, it's the water park. When's it coming? It just created a buzz," said Mike Smith, Ellensburg Director of Community Development.
A buzz that's not dying down anytime soon. Nine lots have been created. Not just for a water park, but for additional hotels, restaurants and office space.
Several area businesses were also hoping the water park would be a lot further along by now. They're wanting to fill empty parking spots and get more business through their doors.
Templeman, Manager for Wing Central's Road House Grill said, " We're definitely looking forward to having more consistency and just an increase in business in general."
KIMA called the developer several times to ask about the delay in construction. He has not yet returned our call.
Smith said, " I suspect the economic downturn has slowed them down."
Folks in Ellensburg are just hoping it hasn't put a stop to their future water park altogether.
If it's finished, Lakeside Landing is expected to bring in about 20 million dollars year to Ellensburg's economy. We'll keep after the developer to find out what the hold up is... And when the park will be open for business. You'll know as soon as we do.
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