After months of what Poarch Creek Indian officials called a “fast track” effort, the Tribe unveiled The Park at OWA to invited guests on Thursday and opened its doors to the world on Friday morning.

Giant sparklers, streams of confetti, champagne and fireworks marked the debut of the 14-acre amusement park in Foley.

Stephanie Bryan, Tribal chair and CEO for the Poarch Creek Indians, said, “The Tribe is excited to see the vision for OWA transform into a reality. This family destination near Alabama’s beautiful beaches is proud to offer world-class entertainment to its guests.

“From the very beginning, we believed we could create something special here for families, whether they are on vacation or are here to play soccer or lacrosse,” Bryan said. “Today, here we are to start having fun and making memories.”

The Tribe’s total investment in the project is expected to top $500 million.

Tim Martin, president of the Creek Indian Enterprise Development Authority, said eight separate economic studies showed that it was economically viable to do the park, but that no one in the state except the Poarch Creek Indian Tribe could do it.

The Tribe originally hoped to open The Park at OWA on Memorial Day weekend, but rainy weather delayed construction.

“Realize and imagine that 14 short months ago, this was a dirt field,” Martin said Thursday as he looked across the park. “That was quite an accomplishment. We couldn’t do it without putting it on a fast-track.”

“Fast track” included many engineers working with an architectural design team, and two general contractors, Martin said.

“Hundreds of people have worked around the clock to get us here,” he said.

Thirty-four contractors employing 420 staff working more than more than 100,000 man hours to complete the phases of the development that are currently open.

The 21-ride amusement park is part of phase one in the 520-acre destination resort. Also opened is a 150-room Marriott TownePlace Suites.

In September, 154,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space just outside the park will open, as will a 14-acre lake with a 1.5 acre island.

The second largest U.S. location of Wahlburgers, will open alongside Sunglass World, Fairhope Soap Company, Alvin’s Island, Hershey’s Ice Cream Shop, and Utopia among others.

The Park, located off the Foley Beach Express, includes six kiddie rides, eight family-friendly rides, and seven thrill rides. It will be open year-round.

Tickets can be purchased at the gates or online at VisitOWA.com.

Ticket prices are:

• General Admission – $34.99

• Junior Admission (42” and below) — $27.99

• Children 3 and under – Free

• Military Admission (Active)* — $27.99

• Senior Admission (60+) — $27.99

• Annual Pass — $89.99

* Restrictions apply.