Ohio County officials confirmed plans for a theme park at The Highlands.

At about 100, acres, the park is expected to be a major tourist attraction. It will include rides, an indoor and outdoor water park and much more.

Over time, The Highlands has literally transformed empty lots into booming businesses.

It began in December 2003, when West Virginia development officials approved an $80 million bond package to build the Cabela's store and distribution center.

Once Cabela's opened in August 2004, many other restaurants and shops expressed interest in building at The Highlands.

In March 2005, the Ohio County Commission announced ten more businesses would build there, including Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Eat N' Park, Bob Evans, Cracker Barrel, McDonald's and Panera Bread.

In October of that same year, the county commission reached a deal with the Hilton Garden Inn to build two hotels and a water park. At the same time, the Ziegenfelder Ice Cream Co. of Wheeling purchased five acres at the Highlands.

Then, retail giant Target signed on for a new store, bringing about 350 new jobs to the Valley. And in June, commissioners announced Cabela's would add on to its distribution center, making it the largest in the state.

The theme park is estimated to create many new jobs and bring thousands more consumers to Ohio County.

Stay with NEWS9 for continuing coverage.

-Renee Cardelli & Allison Latos, NEWS9