Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, US, has announced the first new projects which will form part of a US$300m (£192m, €225m), 10-year expansion.
The first dvelopment, a dual-launch, family rollercoaster named the Firechaser Express, will open next year. The ride will move forwards then backwards over a 2,427-foot track and will be themed on the idea of firefighters protecting the forest of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Opening in 2015, the second project will see the construction of the DreamMore Resort which will have a spa, indoor and outdoor pools and a full-service farmhouse restaurant.
An independent economic impact study commissioned by The Dollywood Company projects that Dollywood and its hospitality investments will add US$150m (£95m, €112m) annually to the local economy. Additionally, more than $7 million in state and local taxes will be generated by the company’s 10-year investments. It's also thought that around 2,500 jobs will be created.
Dollywood is a partnership between Dolly Parton's Dollywood Company which owns the theme park and Dollywood's Splash Country waterpark, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and Herschend Family Entertainment which operates all the attractions. The Dollywood Company is also a partner in the Dixie Stampede dinner attractions in Branson, Missouri and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and Pirates Voyage in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. www.hfecorp.com.
