The ambitious Spotsylvania County Kalahari Resort has started its construction journey in Spotsylvania County, conveniently nestled between U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 95 in Thornburg, a stone's throw from Kings Dominion.
Encompassing a sprawling 1.38 million square feet, the resort is slated to house a grand 907-room hotel and an impressive 175,000-square-foot indoor waterpark. Water enthusiasts can expect exhilarating slides, a state-of-the-art wave pool, and a cutting-edge surf park. In addition, a whopping 10 acres are dedicated to outdoor swimming spots. Adventure seekers are not left out; a 90,000-square-foot adventure park promises thrilling rides, challenging rope courses, and climbing walls. Culinary delights await with 12 on-site dining options, and business events can easily be hosted in the 150,000 square feet of conference space.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions has earmarked a remarkable $900 million investment for this ambitious venture, with doors expected to open in 2026.
The project was green-lit by the Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors in 2022, who approved rezoning of roughly 135 acres. To further support the massive undertaking, they've offered performance incentives and a gap loan to smoothen the construction phase. Kevin Marshall, a Spotsylvania County Supervisor, highlighted the resort's potential, earmarking it as the county's prospective top taxpayer. Financially, over a span of 20 years, the county anticipates $83 million in tax revenue, thanks to approved tax incentives worth over $185 million for Kalahari.
In alignment with the resort's infrastructure needs, the Matta River Community Development Authority was formed earlier this year to generate essential funding.
Marshall envisions a robust economic impetus from this endeavor. Beyond immediate construction jobs, the resort aims to create approximately 1,400 jobs, spanning various skill levels.
This venture marks a significant milestone for the Wisconsin-based Kalahari, which inaugurated its first African-themed resort in the renowned Wisconsin Dells in 2000. The Virginia resort adds to its growing list, joining their existing establishments in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
Todd Nelson, the visionary behind Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, expressed his gratitude to Spotsylvania County and Virginia at large. The overwhelming support and hospitality received have significantly contributed to making this dream project a reality.
Kalahari had previously announced a similar initiative near the Fredericksburg Expo Center in 2007, but the 2008 economic downturn put a damper on those plans. However, Northern Virginia residents can now look forward to a refreshing retreat option in their vicinity.
For context, Kalahari Resorts is celebrated for its grand indoor water parks and expansive convention centers. Their latest Virginia offering promises an array of amenities: captivating waterslides, child-friendly zones, a vast wave pool, an adventure park, and diverse dining experiences, all wrapped in a distinct African ambiance. The brand also supports philanthropic efforts in Africa.
Excitement is palpable as the new resort prepares to greet the public in 2026.
With the Spotsylvania County Kalahari Resort gearing up to offer a plethora of activities and attractions by 2026, we're eager to know your thoughts! Do you have plans to dive into this new water park adventure? Let us know in the comments below if you're looking forward to visiting this upcoming destination!
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