Whitewater Center Director Defends Financial Help

Recently instated parking fees have not kept people away from the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

"So far, year to date, we've seen a 50 percent increase from last year," said Jeff Wise, Executive Director of the USNWC.

The fees went into effect in early spring, but the huge crowds remain. Wise expects the center to make even more money this year than it did last.

More money being pumped in has some wondering why the whitewater center leaders are still receiving financial help. Local municipalities promised to pay the park $12 million over the course of seven years.

"The idea was, this was a fail-safe, if the thing doesn't go well, then these local governments are required to make these contributions," said Mecklenburg County Commissioner Dan Bishop.

Bishop said if they're making more and more money, more tax dollars shouldn't be used.

But Wise said there's still nearly $40 million in debt they haven't paid back yet. He said if they continue to make a profit, all that money goes right to paying off debt and any county contribution will help lower their debt as well.

Wise said for the next six years he will ask for the rest of the $12 million the center has been promised.

The new main entrance to the center will likely open later this month.