A large crowd was on hand Thursday afternoon for the official ribbon cutting for the Castle Ridge development.
Managing Partner Greg Sutton says the facility includes an event center, three restaurants, and a number of other attractions.
“Draw a 4-hour driving range circle around Centralia there is over 20 million people that reside in that circle. And we want to attract as many of those folks into this region as possible. So we want people to come, and not just enjoy the castle but come and visit other locations within the community. Stay in the hotels, eat in the restaurants, get gas and just enjoy the beautiful natural scenery we have with Raccoon Lake.”
Sutton says they want to provide economic development as well as community development to the entire region. The ribbon cutting was a combined effort of the Centralia, Salem, and Jefferson County Chambers of Commerce and Illinois South.
The event was followed by a balloon lift-off that attracted a large crowd on a perfect evening for the Balloons. In addition to the pre-ballooning events, Castle Ridge is the after-party headquarters once activities conclude on Friday and Saturday nights in Foundation Park.
Melissa Ray Roach says a number of activities are planned.
“Friday night we have Cory Evitts starting from 8-11 pm. We have a beer garden and general admission is free. Cory Evitts is a one-man band and anybody can come for that. We have activities for the kids and families and yard games. Both our restaurants will be open starting at 11:00 a.m. so you can come for lunch before you go to Balloon Fest and then to the after party afterward.”
Murphy 500 will provide the entertainment on Saturday night.
Up, Up and Away at Castle Ridge Thursday afternoon. Photo by Pat Hodges.
Balloons fly over Castle Ridge Thursday afternoon. Photo by Pat Hodges.
