Introduction
A proposal has been made to build a new super-theme park in southern Illinois, to be called SuperLand!. A group of investors from the United States and Japan have joined together on this venture to design and build the largest theme park in the world. They have chosen southern Illinois because of its central location and proximity to such major metropolitan areas as Louisville, Memphis, St. Louis, Nashville, and Chicago. (A map of the midwest region may be downloaded by clicking here).
Economic Aspects And Benefits
Due to the enormous costs involved in building this park, outside investors were sought. A group of very wealthy businessmen from Kobe, Japan, will provide 50% of the capital needed to build the park if the plans pass inspection. One of their concerns is the safety (risk) of their investment from natural and man-made hazards.
The construction of the theme park will add over 2000 new jobs to the region, and when the park is completed and operational, more than 8,000 new jobs will have been created. Since this is presently an economically depressed area, these new jobs will bring prosperity to nearby communities. The taxes generated by SuperLand! will significantly improve the state treasuries of both Illinois and nearby states, like Kentucky. Tourism will increase the need for more hotels, motels, and restaurants, again creating more jobs. And, of course, the midwest will enjoy the theme park itself, with its many rides and attractions.
Your Involvement
The governor of Illinois and the Illinois State Legislature have created a panel of planning experts and scientists to look into the risks which may affect the new theme park. The panel consists of state agency scientists and some members of county agencies from southern Illinois. The scientists come from the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS), the Illinois Emergency Managment Agency (IEMA), and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Other representatives to the panel include a Metropolis Planning Commission member and a county board advisor.
It is planned that SuperLand! be built on 1500 acres located just outside of Metropolis, Illinois. The land is situated near the Ohio River, and the amusement park will be accessable by a new proposed highway, monorail from the local airport (which will need to be enlarged), high speed rail from major cities, and by riverboat.
Congratulations. You have been appointed by the governor to be a member of the Risk Assessment and Mitigation Panel for Superland! (RAMPS). You have received the attached letter welcoming you to the task force.
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