Study: Aiken horse park could cost $135 m

AIKEN, S.C. (AP) — A new study suggests that while an international horse park near Aiken is feasible and would pour millions into the local economy, it would be expensive and require a lot of private money to build.

The Aiken Standard (http://bit.ly/NsEblg ) reports the study by University of South Carolina researchers found the project could cost more than $135 million. The study says a park could be built near Interstate 20 and be used for a variety of equestrian events.

It estimated the park could attract about 428,000 visitors a year, generate $38 million annually in direct spending and create 575 jobs.

But it also noted a park could hurt the city’s character and existing horse-related businesses. It also said there could be resistance to using public money for such a project.

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Information from: Aiken Standard, http://www.aikenstandard.com