Content area
Full Text
It's going to be greener than ever at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Va., in 2001 as Ireland becomes the newest themed area.
The Emerald Isle becomes the newest country in 20 years to debut at the park, bringing the total number of European countries represented to six. The new hamlet will replace the Hastings area, one of the original areas in the park when it first opened in 1975.
"Ireland will have the same footprint as Hastings did, but all structures and facades will have a major renovation and retheming," said Dan Brown, park manager, noting that the new area represents "a significant investment," but not revealing the budget.
However, one insider told AB the cost of Ireland would be comparable to that of "a major roller coaster," hinting the cost would be in the $15-million range.
Work will begin shortly after Labor Day when half of Hastings is closed down. The rest will remain open until the end of the season in late October.
Italy was...