Excitement is building in North Little Rock as plans for a new entertainment complex on the former Wild River Country grounds take shape. The Maly Group, an Arkansas-based company, is set to begin construction this summer on a state-of-the-art facility that promises to bring a fresh wave of entertainment to the area. With a blend of modern attractions and nostalgic elements, the project aims to create a new destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Transforming a beloved landmark
The site of the former Wild River Country water park is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Located on Crystal Hill Road off I-430, this once-popular summer hotspot is being reimagined as a year-round entertainment center. The Maly Group has ambitious plans for the space, which include :
- An electronic driving range
- T-Time golf
- HyperLanes bowling
- A virtual arcade
- Restaurants and specialty shops
Perhaps most intriguing for long-time fans of Wild River Country is the developer’s intention to preserve the iconic waterslide tower. This nod to the site’s history has sparked speculation about how the new facility might incorporate elements of its watery predecessor.
The scale of the project is impressive, with recent reports suggesting the facility will span 100,000 square feet. This expansion from the initially proposed 89,000 square feet indicates the growing ambition of the development. The Maly Group has also added exciting new features to the plans, including :
- A two-level bar
- A beer garden
- An outdoor miniature golf course
These additions are sure to enhance the appeal of the complex, offering a diverse range of entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
Construction timeline and project details
The transformation of the former Wild River Country site is well underway. According to North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick’s quarterly publication “North Little Rock Proud,” an astounding 800,000 truckloads of dirt have already been excavated from the site. This massive earthmoving operation sets the stage for the construction phase, which is scheduled to begin in earnest this summer.
Key dates in the project timeline include :
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Early July 2023 | Construction start |
| August 2023 | Concrete pouring |
| End of 2024 | Projected completion |
Dr. James Thomas, a co-owner of Maly Construction LLC, has expressed confidence in meeting the end-of-2024 completion target. This timeline allows for approximately 18 months of construction, suggesting a rapid and efficient building process.
The North Little Rock Planning Commission has already given its stamp of approval, granting a conditional use permit for the recreational facility in December. This green light from local authorities paves the way for The Maly Group to proceed with their vision for the site.
A preview in Conway
While North Little Rock residents eagerly await the completion of their new entertainment complex, they can get a taste of what’s to come by visiting Conway. The Maly Group is set to open a 55,000 square-foot Maly Entertainment Center at 1040 Maly Curve in Conway during the summer of 2023.
This Conway facility will serve as a partial preview of the larger North Little Rock project, featuring many of the same attractions :
- HyperLanes bowling
- An arcade
- Laser tag
- Axe throwing
- A restaurant
- Two bars
The opening of the Conway center will not only provide entertainment for local residents but also offer valuable insights and experience for The Maly Group as they prepare for the larger North Little Rock development. This “test run” of sorts could lead to refinements and improvements in the design and operation of the North Little Rock facility.
Preserving the spirit of Wild River Country
For many Arkansas residents, the closure of Wild River Country in 2019 marked the end of an era. The water park had been a summertime staple since 1985, providing countless memories of splashing down the Lightning Bolt, braving the wave pool, and lazily floating along the Lazy River.
The Maly Group seems keenly aware of the nostalgic value of the Wild River Country brand. In a move that’s sure to please long-time fans, the developers have teased keeping “Wild River Country” in the name of the new complex. This decision, coupled with the preservation of the waterslide tower, suggests a thoughtful approach to honoring the site’s legacy while moving forward with a modern entertainment concept.
While the new facility won’t offer the same water-based thrills as its predecessor, it promises to create new memories for a new generation of visitors. The diverse range of attractions planned for the site ensures that there will be something for everyone, from golf enthusiasts to bowling fans, and from arcade gamers to those simply looking for a place to relax and enjoy good food and drinks.
As the summer of 2023 approaches and construction begins, the excitement in North Little Rock is palpable. The transformation of the former Wild River Country grounds represents not just a new entertainment option, but a bridge between the area’s past and its future. With its blend of nostalgia and innovation, the new complex is poised to become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, carrying forward the spirit of fun and adventure that Wild River Country embodied for over three decades.
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