Ky. OKs full-scale Noah's Ark

                                                                                                                     Vol. XXIV, No. 7, August 2011

Kentucky state officials gave final approval May 19 to tax incentives for a full-scale reproduction of Noah's Ark that will be built south of Cincinnati and cost nearly $150 million.

The state's Tourism Development Finance Authority unanimously approved tax incentives that will allow Ark Encounter LLC to recover up to 25% of its construction costs through sales tax rebates if it meets attendance and sales projections.

Groundbreaking in Grant County, Ky., for the Bible-themed attraction is tentatively set for August, with a targeted opening in 2014.

Answers in Genesis, the same group that is behind the Creation Museum, is partnering with another group to build the Ark Encounter. Private funds are being used.

According to a press release, the attraction will include a walled city, a first-century Middle Eastern village, a tower of Babel and a petting zoo. The idea is to attract visitors who will want to attend not only the Ark reproduction but also the Creation Museum.

An analysis by Hunden Strategic Partners shows the ark will draw 1.2 million visitors the first year and have a $119 million impact on the state the first 10 years.

For information, visit ArkEncounter.com. [BP]