Theme Park Discussion / 2014 Carowinds Expansion

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Tuesday, Eyewitness News took a tour inside Carowinds to learn how the new $50 million investment will benefit the Carolinas.

Spokesperson Julie Whitted took Eyewitness News inside Carowinds, now closed during the week, but still a very busy place.

Workers are prepping for Scarowinds, building three new attractions, including one called London Terror.

"Roller coasters clicking and clacking and people screaming," said Whitted.

But it is nothing compared to the $50 million expansion that will start in 2014.

Whitted could not say where or what they will build. Outside firms often design the big rides, so Eyewitness News asked how locals will benefit, and Carowinds said the expansion will increase their workforce by 10 percent, 270 new seasonal jobs and 15 full times.

"People come to us and work in teenage years, acquire valuable skill sets. They take into their careers," said Richard Zimmerman from Cedar Fair.

It is great timing for Culvers restaurant across the street that opened in June.

"That is huge. That shows they will continue to be successful over there and that will help us with the increase in volume," said Mike Sundermeier.

If Carowinds owner Cedar Fair is being secretive about construction plans, they are making no secret of their commitment to Charlotte.

Cedar Fair said more details on the expansion will be released next month and work will start next year.

In the meantime, Carowinds plan to hire a record 700 people for Scarowinds this year, they have 200 jobs still open.