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🏗️ Great Wolf Lodge Is Moving Forward In Jackson! 🏗️

🏗️ Great Wolf Lodge Is Moving Forward In Jackson! 🏗️

This Project Will Change Jackson Forever!

December 01, 2024

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Get a curated list of family-friendly events and in-depth breakdowns on what’s happening in and around the HubCity—delivered right to you!"

Happy Sunday! We Hope Everyone Had A Great Thanksgiving! 🦃

Let’s Dive Right In!

In Today’s “HubCity Newsletter”:

What’s the Time Frame? ⏳
What’s the Cost? 💰
Who Will Benefit From This? 🌟
Not All Rainbows & Sunshine 🌈☀️
Weekly Events For The Kids (Kids Zone)🛝
Weekly Events For The Whole Family (Family Fun)🎡

Read Time: 3 - 5 Minutes

As the buzz around Great Wolf Lodge grows, the city of Jackson is preparing for the development of this massive family-focused resort. Here’s a breakdown of the latest updates and what it could mean for our community.

⏳ What’s the Time Frame? ⏳

While excitement is high, patience will be key. The Great Wolf Lodge in Jackson is currently slated to open in 2026. However, looking at their Naples, Florida location, delays are possible. The Florida resort faced more than a year’s delay due to various challenges, and Jackson’s location might encounter similar hurdles.

Construction preparations have begun, with Great Wolf closing on the property and obtaining initial permits for grading and site work. A crucial part of the development includes building a $6.5 million road connecting the site to F.E. Wright Drive, ensuring accessibility. Though the timeline seems ambitious, local leaders are optimistic, and the city is taking steps to support progress.

💰 What’s the Cost? 💰

The financial commitment to bringing Great Wolf Lodge to Jackson is substantial, impacting both the city and the company. The resort represents a multi-million-dollar investment, and Jackson’s city council is currently debating the additional $32 million bond issue to fund necessary infrastructure upgrades, including the new road and other capital improvements.

The total bond could bring Jackson’s city debt to $80 million, a significant increase. Concerns were raised during a recent council meeting about potential tax implications. However, Mayor Conger emphasized the city’s proactive approach, planning ahead to avoid piecemeal borrowing at fluctuating interest rates.

The financial benefits of Great Wolf Lodge are also promising. Once operational, it’s expected to boost tourism revenue, bringing increased sales tax revenue and creating new jobs. The city is optimistic that the long-term economic gains will far outweigh the upfront costs.

🌟 Who Will Benefit From This? 🌟

The arrival of Great Wolf Lodge has the potential to be a game-changer for Jackson:

Families and Tourists: As a premier destination, Great Wolf Lodge will attract families from across the region, offering water park fun, themed accommodations, and other family-friendly amenities. Local families will also have access to a unique entertainment option without having to travel far.
Local Businesses: The influx of tourists will create a ripple effect for nearby businesses. Hotels, restaurants, and retail stores are likely to see increased foot traffic and revenue.
Employment Opportunities: The resort will bring hundreds of jobs to the area, ranging from construction roles during development to hospitality positions once it’s operational. This is a win for Jackson's job market and economic growth.
Sports Tourism Boost: Plans to invest $4 million in artificial turf at the West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex will enhance Jackson’s sports tourism appeal. Improved fields will attract more tournaments, keeping Jackson competitive with neighboring cities like Southaven and Oxford.

🌈☀️ Not All Rainbows & Sunshine 🌈☀️

Although many residents are excited about the Great Wolf Lodge project and its potential impact on Jackson, there are some who view it differently.

Concerns have been raised about the city’s spending priorities, with critics arguing that these funds could be directed toward other pressing needs. Others worry about Jackson’s traffic, which has already become a common frustration for many residents, and fear this development might exacerbate the issue.

Although It Closed 24 Years Ago Due To Financial Trouble, It’s Still A Reminder Of What Can Happen If Things Go Wrong!

Some skeptics have even expressed doubts about the project's success, citing past large-scale initiatives in Jackson that faced challenges due to crime or lack of sufficient visitors.

While it’s impossible to predict the future, these perspectives highlight the importance of ongoing community discussions. For now, the majority of Jackson seems optimistic, with many believing the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Only time will tell how this development shapes the city.

This week we wanted to give you a more in-depth breakdown of what’s happening with Great Wolf Lodge. It’s one of the biggest developments in Jackson’s history and the implications will impact West Tennessee for the foreseeable future!

Don’t forget to take a moment and answer our quick poll below & check out this week’s list of curated events. ❤️

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The Kid Zone
This Week’s Curated Events!
Monday, December 2nd - Sunday, December 8th

Monday, December 2nd

Jackson, TN 2024 Christmas Parade 🎁
Date: Monday, December 2nd
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Jackson, TN City Hall
Price: Free
Additional Details: Get Ready Jackson For The Annual Christmas Parade. The Lighting Of The Christmas Tree Will Take Place At 5:15 PM. This Year's Theme Will Be “Connecting the Community through Christmas”.

Tuesday, December 3rd

The Cowboy Astronomer 🔭
Date: Tuesday, December 3rd
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once The Show Starts.

Wednesday, December 4th

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Wednesday, December 4th
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Thursday, December 5th

JMCL Family Game Night 🎲
Date: Thursday, December 5th
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Main Library
Price: Free
Additional Details: This Is A Game Night For The Whole Family! Come Play Chess, Checkers, Monopoly, Uno, Catan & So Many Other Fun Games We Have.

Friday, December 6th

The Polar Express at the Casey Jones Museum 🛤️
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: $15 Per Guest (Children Under 3 Free)
Additional Details: Tickets Include Chocolate Chip Cookies & Hot Chocolate! You & Your Kids Can Learn Fun Facts About Our Polar Express Conductor, Meet Santa & So Much More!

The Cowboy Astronomer 🔭
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 1:30 PM
Location: M. D. Anderson Planetarium
Price: Free
Additional Details: No Food Or Drinks Allowed. Please 15 Minutes Early & No Entry Once The Show Starts.

Saturday, December 7th

A Winnie The Pooh Christmas Tail 🍯
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: First Methodist
Price: Free (Donations Encouraged)
Event By: Imagination Library Madison County, TN
Additional Details: Are You Ready For A Special Holiday Puppet Show? Bring The Kids & Enjoy A Show Like No Other! The Show Is Free But We Encourage Donations, Which Go To Providing Children With Books.

A Day at the Farm with Santa 🧑‍🎄
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Sunset Valley Farms
Price: (Check For Pricing)
Additional Details: Holiday Photos With Santa, Visiting Animals, Farm Slides, Mini Donuts, Hot Chocolate & Tons More To Explore At Sunset Valley Farms!

Pancakes & Pictures🧑‍🎄
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Century Farm Winery
Price: $50 (For A Family Of 4!) $25 (For Two Additional Kids)
Additional Details: Let’s Bring The Holiday Spirit To The Whole Family! You Will Receive A Gift From Santa Along With Your Pancake Meal & 5 Minute Photo Session With Santa!

A Winnie The Pooh Christmas Tail 🍯
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: First Methodist
Price: Free (Donations Encouraged)
Event By: Imagination Library Madison County, TN
Additional Details: Are You Ready For A Special Holiday Puppet Show? Bring The Kids & Enjoy A Show Like No Other! The Show Is Free But We Encourage Donations, Which Go To Providing Children With Books.

Family Fun
This Week’s Curated Events!
Monday, December 2nd - Sunday, December 8th

Monday, December 2nd

1st Monday Night Of The Month Dinner & Bingo 🍲
Date: Monday, December 2nd
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Beech Bluff Recreation Center
Price: $10 Per Plate (Dinner and Bingo)
Meal:Chicken & Dumplings, Fried Bread, Dessert & A Drink!

Tuesday, December 3rd

FHU Legacy Jazz Ensemble 🎷
Date:Tuesday, December 3rd
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Freed-Hardeman University (Draughon Recital Hall)
Price: Free
Additional Details: Come Out & Celebrate The Hardworking Students Musicians As They Bring You A Wonderful Classic Jazz Performance.

Wednesday, December 4th

Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt - Jackson Tennessee 🧩
Date: Wednesday, December 4th
Time: 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Time Based On How Long It Takes To Solve.)
Location: 119 East College Street
Price: $49.99 Per Team

Story Time Station 📖
Date: Wednesday, December 4th
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
Price: Free
Ages: Preschool

Thursday, December 5th

Holiday Arts Social 🎨
Date: Thursday, December 5th
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Havner's Frame Shop
Price: Free
Additional Details: This Is The Perfect Event To Visit & Shop With Local Artists! Come Out & Chat With Other Art Supporters, While Enjoying Hors D'oeuvres.

Friday, December 6th

December Hub City Flea Market 🛍️
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free Entry

DYNAMIX HOOPFEST (GIRLS) 🏀
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: University School of Jackson
Price: Free
Additional Details: If You Are A Basketball Fan, Then This Event Is For You! There Will Be Two Days Of Back To Back Matchups From The Top High School Basketball Teams Playing In Jackson!

DYNAMIX HOOPFEST (BOYS) 🏀
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Trinity Christian Academy
Price: Free
Additional Details: If You Are A Basketball Fan, Then This Event Is For You! There Will Be Two Days Of Back To Back Matchups From The Top High School Basketball Teams Playing In Jackson!

A Union Christmas Concert 🎵
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 7:00PM
Location: Union University (Savage Chapel)
Price: Free

Saturday, December 7th

Jackson Sports Cards & Collectibles Show ⚾
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: VFW Post 1848
Price: Free Entry
Additional Details: Sports Card Dealers From All Over The Mid-South Will Be Present Displaying Cards From All Sports!

DYNAMIX HOOPFEST (GIRLS) 🏀
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: University School of Jackson
Price: Free
Additional Details: If You Are A Basketball Fan, Then This Event Is For You! There Will Be Two Days Of Back To Back Matchups From The Top High School Basketball Teams Playing In Jackson!

December Hub City Flea Market 🛍️
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free Entry

Christmas Around the World Holiday Pops 🎄
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Carl Perkins Civic Center
Price: (Click For Pricing)
Presented By: The Jackson Symphony
Additional Details: This Wonderful Holiday Event Is For All Ages! Join Us For A Celebration Of Holiday Customs From All Around The World, Along With Many American Classics.

DYNAMIX HOOPFEST (BOYS) 🏀
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Trinity Christian Academy
Price: Free
Additional Details: If You Are A Basketball Fan, Then This Event Is For You! There Will Be Two Days Of Back To Back Matchups From The Top High School Basketball Teams Playing In Jackson!

Christmas At The Walk ❄️
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: The Jackson Walk
Price: Free Entry
Additional Details: This Event Will Feature Over 30 Local Vendors Selling Unique Holiday Gifts For Everyone In The Family!

Santa & Hot Cocoa 🧑‍🎄
Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Prime Auto USA
Price: Free Entry
Additional Details: Grab Your Little Ones & Take Some Photos With Santa And Sip Some Hot Cocoa!

Sunday, December 8th

The Polar Express & Santa Too Movie Event! 🎥
Date: Sunday, December 8th
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Empire Theaters 8
Price: Free (Reserve Your Seats)
Presented By: Nest Realty
Additional Details: Come Watch The Christmas Classic “The Polar Express” & Take Pictures With Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus From 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM.

December Hub City Flea Market 🛍️
Date: Sunday, December 8th
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free Entry

The Polar Express & Santa Too Movie Event! 🎥
Date: Sunday, December 8th
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Empire Theaters 8
Price: Free (Reserve Your Seats)
Presented By: Nest Realty
Additional Details: Come Watch The Christmas Classic “The Polar Express” & Take Pictures With Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus From 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM.

Drive-Thru Nativity Scene 🙏
Date: Sunday, December 8th
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: New Shiloh United Methodist
Price: Free
Additional Details: Please Join Us For This Free Event & Experience The Christmas Story For Yourself!

Advertise In One Of The Fastest Growing Newsletters In West TN!
(Click Here For More Details.)

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