WHEELING -- The news came last week that the final permits for the Wild Escape Theme Park at the Highlands are nearly in place, and while the owner of the park said that was music to his ears, there is a lot of work still ahead.

The site sits on the western edge of the Highlands site, and will offer, when complete, will encompass dozens of acres of land.

Owner Steve Minard said a project this size take five to seven years to come to fruition.

“For us, we're right on track. We're at about the three year mark. So we're very happy with where we're at. This is not something that came by surprise and when you get into this, you know that given the size, there's going to be things you have to get past, so we're very pleased,” said Minard.

When asked about the economy, Minard said that won't affect this project because it is privately funded.

He said he expects there to be more hurdles on the road to completion, but he isn't going anywhere.

he has roller coasters and other rides already in storage for the park once it's complete.