Work resumes at Gameday Bay water park at HOF Village: A New Beginning
The Big Deal
After over a year of delays and a highly visible eyesore along Interstate 77 and Fulton Drive NW, construction has resumed at the Gameday Bay water park. This is a significant development for the Hall of Fame Village, a private company that has secured a new $70 million loan and preliminary capital lease agreements to finance the water park and on-site hotel.
The Narrative Shift
The project, which began in late 2022 with an estimated cost of $117 million, has faced financial struggles and a dormant period. However, with construction now underway, the narrative is shifting. The water park is expected to open in the spring of 2027, and the hotel is set to follow a few months later.
A Tourism Magnet
Even without the water park, the Hall of Fame Village attracts nearly 2 million visitors annually. The Village is a destination making an extraordinary impact in the community, according to Visit Canton's president and CEO, Allyson Bussey.
A Top-Tier Experience
The Gameday Bay water park will be a top-tier attraction, featuring the largest swim-up bar in the country. With nearly 90,000 square feet of 'wet space' and over 140,000 square feet overall, it will cater to all ages, from toddlers to adults.
A New Beginning
The Hall of Fame Village, now a private company, is gaining momentum. The Village is working to re-earn the trust and support of the community, and with construction underway, it's a positive sign for the future.
The Way Forward
The Stark County Port Authority has approved preliminary agreements to finance the water park and hotel construction, and the Village is ready to move forward. With trade workers on-site and progress being made, the Village is on track to become a successful destination, providing a return on investment for the city.
