Developers announced the purchase of an estimated 600-acre plot of land in New Caney July 8, about 25 miles from The Woodlands at 23413 FM 242 near Hwy. 59. The park is expected to be Texan-themed with renderings depicting saloons and an Old West atmosphere. Proposed park amenities and features include a Big Rivers Water Park, roller coasters and an RV resort as well as several dining and retail establishments.

 

Andy Dill, president of the Community Chamber of Commerce of East Montgomery County, said plans for EarthQuest Adventures, a separate 500-acre dinosaur-themed park expected to open in 2014 or 2015, will complement Grand Texas.

 

“Having a theme park or even two theme parks could bring tourists from two to three hours away on a daily basis,” Dill said. “They are not just coming to the theme park—they are eating at our rest stops, buying gas and staying in the hotels and motels. All those will have dramatic, phenomenal impacts on the economy.”

 

Innovative Leisure Partners is expected to manage the park. Company CEO Chuck Hendrix has about 40 years of experience in the industry, including his time spent as an executive with Six Flags Theme Parks and AstroWorld before it shut down in 2005.