Goal: To create a world-class attraction along the St. Johns River
· Increase interest in conservation of natural resources throughout the area
· Increase the public’s understanding of wildlife, their natural habitats, and how we affect them
· Help invigorate the city by bringing more tourists and jobs to the city
· Be an interactive educational facility and research location
· Provide a new community location for special events
Community Impact numbers:
· Preliminary attendance potential: 625,000 – 1,062,000
· Total revenues are estimated at $14.6 million in a stable year of operation
· $13.5 million annual operating budget will be new direct spending in Duval County and Florida as a whole
· $30.8 million in wages and salaries supporting 989 total jobs in Duval County
· $39.6 million in wages and salaries, supporting 1,236 total jobs in the State
· Mid-range annual fiscal revenue through potential sales and hotel taxes of $655,000 to Duval County and $1.9 million in taxes to the State