DEADWOOD, S.D. (AP) — Backers of a proposed $40 million western theme park in Deadwood are lauding the project as a significant economic development opportunity for the Black Hills tourist town.

The Rapid City Journal reports that organizers hope the park could open in 2019. Early plans for the "Gold Nugget Theme Park" have it located near The Lodge at Deadwood or on land in Whitewood Canyon.

Mayor Chuck Turbiville says the project could be a "major game-changer" for Deadwood and the northern hills.

Deadwood Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lee Harstad says the proposal would be among the largest private projects built in Deadwood since legalized gambling came to town in 1989.

The team proposing the park has a background in the oil and gas industry, the Air Force and business.

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