Busch Gardens Tampa Files Permit for Major New Water Attraction “Project Driftwood”
Big changes could be coming to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. According to newly discovered permit filings first reported by Expedition Theme Park, the park has officially applied for a building permit tied to a major new attraction project that appears destined for the former Stanley Falls Flume area.
The permit lists a massive project footprint totaling approximately 91,400 square feet and notably specifies that zero demolition will be required. That detail strongly suggests the existing ride station and portions of the current infrastructure could be reused as part of the new experience. The filing specifically describes the project as the “removal of an existing water ride and construction of a new water attraction and related guest amenities.”
Additional details included in the permit mention ride infrastructure, themed structures, building modifications, utility upgrades, hardscape and landscape enhancements, and associated site work. While no contractor names or manufacturers have been revealed yet, further research into the filing uncovered the internal project codename “Project Driftwood.”
At this time, no additional information has been released regarding the attraction’s theme, ride system, or opening timeline. However, the scale of the project points toward a significant investment for the Tampa theme park and could mark the next major addition to Busch Gardens’ lineup of attractions.
Florida Thrills will continue monitoring permit filings and construction activity as more details about “Project Driftwood” emerge.
