Nov. 2 was a historical day in Foley, as the Poarch Band of Creek Indians unveiled plans for the family friendly destination currently under construction at County Road 20 and the Foley Beach Express, “Owa,” which means “big water” in the Muskogee Creek language.

“It’s not every day we have this kind of opportunity in what used to be farmland,” Poarch Creek’s Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie A. Bryan said. “This is a field of dreams. It is especially important to recognize Owa is evidence of what we can do, government to government.”

Bryan also stated, when the project is complete, $500 million dollars will have been invested here. The development will also generate close to 3,500 jobs, both direct and indirect, and will boost tourism spending in south Alabama by seven percent.

Owa is expected to open its doors Memorial Day 2017. A 150-room Marriott TownePlace Suites hotel is currently under construction, and 154,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space will be available to visitors.

“Not only will this create thousands of jobs, but it will also mean Foley is no longer a place people drive by; it’s a place they drive to,” Bryan said, “whether it’s for a tournament, amusement park, getaway or a great dinner. You cannot provide these results without having a bold vision or plan.”

A 14-acre amusement park will feature 20 rides from roller coasters to kiddie rides. There will be three thrill rides, including one major roller coaster. There will be a large swing ride that rises 150 feet in the air, allowing the rider to see the high-rise condominiums from the air, if not the Gulf water. The 14-acre lake will have an island in the middle with a 300-seat outdoor amphitheater and boathouse. Lake amenities include boat rentals and fountain shows.

Future planned phases include a luxury RV resort, four hotels, a resort-level condominium and an outdoor waterpark.