Indians OK Theme Park on Reservation
In the first venture of its kind in the nation, the Viejas band of Mission Indians has approved the development of a $250-million amusement and water park on its East San Diego County reservation.
The Indians hope the 120-acre project will piggyback on San Diego County’s tourism industry and their own gambling casino and create 2,400 jobs during peak summers after its completion in 1996.
The project was approved by 58% of tribal members in a vote taken Wednesday, said Anthony R. Pico, chairman of the Viejas band. A similar proposal was narrowly defeated two months ago, but the project was pared down by a third from 180 acres and the length of the lease shortened from 99 years to 50 years, Pico said.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
