Amidst growing controversies, Gov. Steven L. Beshear of the state of Kentucky wanted to push through his plan of building a Bible-based tourist attraction called Ark Encounter, a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark complete with various animals and actors to relive the biblical story. The theme park was designed by a Christian Ministry called Answers Genesis, which also constructed the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky. The state assured a group of investors that the plan will receive generous tax incentives. The project is estimated to cost $150 million, will employ 900 people and will attract 1.6 million visitors worldwide in its first year operation- a welcome prediction in today’s increasing unemployment rate of the state.

Beshear remained firm on his decision and brushed off questions about his stand on the surrounding controversies, particularly in religion. “The people of Kentucky didn’t elect me governor to debate religion. They elected me governor to create jobs,” Beshear said in a conference.  Mike Zovath, a senior vice president of Answers in Genesis, added that the proposed theme park will not only generate income and jobs for the state but will also open an opportunity to present accurate and factual biblical information to people about religion.

Aside form Noah’s Ark, the Bible-themed ark will also showcase a myriad of other tourist spectacles including a 100-foot Tower of Babel, a first-century Middle Eastern village and a journey through the Old Testament, with special effects depicting Moses, the 10 plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. There will also be a petting zoo, live bird and animal shows and a play area with ziplines and climbing nets for children.