If all goes according to plan, it will be March 2015 when this theme park actually opens. There's a lot of work to be done, but it certainly has the people of southeast Montgomery County excited.
An artist rendering of the new park called Grand Texas shows an old west main street, with a Texas museum, an agricultural area for teaching and hand-on activities, water shows and rides, including three roller coasters, one of which is a wooden coaster.
"The park is based on Texas history and culture," said developer Monty Galland. "It's got all of the elements of a typical amusement park."
Galland is with the development company about to close on two large pieces of property at the intersection of Highway 59 and Highway 242 in southeast Montgomery County, which he says will be very different from the former Astroworld.
"It's got an adventure course with zip lines and a rope course on an island where people can participate in eco-friendly activities," Galland explained.
David Peake manages the Pilot Flying J gas station and truck stop located in the midst of the amusement park, its entertainment district, waterpark and three planned hotels.
"It is fantastic, not only for this area of town but for the whole city of Houston," Peake said. "It's going to be great for our business. We cater to over-the-road truck drivers. But not just truck drivers, gas customers as well. Bringing that new amount of people into the area is going to be great for business."
It's true we've heard plans for parks here before. Just down the road there's a faded sign for the Earthquest Park which was to open last year. And rumors of other plans have some residents wary.
"I will believe it when I see it," said one woman.
But most we talked to are excited, thrilled that an amusement park seems so close to reality.
"This is for real. I really believe this is for real," said Kingwood resident Martin Gonzalez.
This group is not affiliated with any other group that has planned any sort of theme park in the area. They had originally hoped to build Grand Texas near Tomball, but they found a better deal on land. They hope to close on the property in April. The expected opening date would be in 2015.
The cost for a family of four will run about $120 for a day. But yearly memberships will be available.
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