Great Wolf Poconos (promotional photo)
GOSHEN – Great Wolf Lodge, the indoor waterpark resort company,
is eyeballing southern Orange County for a family-friendly facility.
Another indoor waterpark is under construction next to the casino in
the Sullivan County Town of Thompson.
Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus revealed on Wednesday that he
has had discussions with company officials.
Neuhaus said while Great Wolf has been looking in the area for a year, Legoland essentially sealed the deal for an Orange County location.
“Legoland, being approved and fully under construction definitely helped push it over the line because I think they are fishing from the same pool,” Neuhaus said. “They attract young families; Legoland attracts a little bit younger than the waterpark does.”
Under discussion for a 35 to 40 acre site are parcels in the Blooming Grove or Chester town sections of Camp LaGuardia and the Greens of Chester site, which has been controversial of late because of proposed high-density housing.
“Great Wolf Resorts is experiencing a period of incredible growth and as we continue to expand our paw print with new resorts throughout the United States, we see the metro New York market as an area that offers tremendous future potential,” said CEO Murray Hennessy. “Orange County is an ideal location for a potential Great Wolf Lodge with its close proximity to New York City and family-friendly environment.”
According to Neuhaus, the resort’s business model is to attract families to stay overnight in an on-campus hotel.
Great Wolf currently operates 18 lodges, including one in the Pennsylvania
Poconos.
