Water resort in Fitchburg set to make a splash in December.

Byline: Matthew Bruun

FITCHBURG - The massive CoCo Key Water Resort now under construction at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center is on track to open in December.

James Wolfe, general manager of the hotel, off Route 31 near Route 2, took the city's License Commission on a tour of the site, measuring approximately 38,000 square feet, yesterday morning.

Commissioners visited the site because CoCo Key will require licenses to serve food and alcoholic beverages.

Mr. Wolfe said the splash park project - which officials have previously said represents a $30 million investment - and a simultaneous renovation of the hotel itself are on track to be completed this year.

The water park occupies a new building, where ground was broken in January, between the trade center and main hotel building. The project is still a work in progress, but the work already complete conveys the massive scope of the park.

The tropical-themed attractions include massive water slides, a slow-flowing artificial river and venues to eat and drink. Hotel guests will get first crack at tickets, but Mr. Wolfe said passes will also be available for visitors who only want to visit the water park.

Rates have yet to be determined, he said.

"It will be what the market will bear," Mr. Wolfe said.

Along with Fitchburg, CoCo Key resorts are scheduled to open by year's end in Waterbury, Conn., and Mount Laurel, N.J.

The hotel renovation includes an expanded fitness center, video arcade and bar. The work is expected to be complete before the hotel is rechristened in January as a new brand.

"It's very impressive," License Commission Chairman William Judge said after the tour. "It's going to be good. I can see why people are excited."

ART: PHOTO

CUTLINE: Construction crews work on the CoCo Key Water Resort at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center in Fitchburg.

PHOTOG: MATTHEW BRUUN