BARRYVILLE – Conversation on Camp Fun Is More Fun Outside (FIMFO) continued in the Town of Highland on October 26 inside the Eldred Junior Senior High School gymnasium as the board unveiled an updated site plan which ultimately removed the “mountain coaster” from the project.

As previously reported in the Democrat, the campsites where Camp FIMFO is planning to take over were formerly run by Kittatinny Canoes in Barryville.

In a continuation of the recessed public hearing from September 28, Chairman of the Highland Planning Board, Norm Sutherland, gave the crowd an insight into the updates to the $44.9 million project site plan.

Due to increased public backlash against the installation of the “mountain coaster” on the campgrounds, Chairman Sutherland stated that the feature had been struck from the project entirely. In place of the “mountain coaster” there are plans for a modified miniature golf course layout.

The now scrapped mountain coaster was initially described to be a low-lying, gravity powered rail system that followed a natural course down the mountain side.

At past meetings, members of the public stated their general disdain for the mountain coaster for a variety of reasons, including the interest of keeping noise pollution down, caution over physical safety, and concern over possible disruption of the wildlife and natural habitats.

Additionally, the mechanical building for the aquatic center has been relocated from its originally planned location, as well as the environmental assessment form having been updated. 

Chairman Sutherland also confirmed that blasting will not be used on-site to remove any rock. However, Chairman Sutherland explained that the project must ensure the updated utilities being laid out must be at least four feet into the ground due to frost and other natural effects.

During the public comment section of the meeting, roughly 15 local residents took their turn to speak on the project. The project received a mix of criticism and support from various individuals and organizations.

The major concerns from dissenters remain aligned with those that were stated at former meetings, which include concern over the organizations involved paying their fair share of taxes to support the community, possible repercussions to the natural environment and water usage, and concern over the possible disruption of Barryville resident’s way of life.

Owned by Northgate Resorts, Camp FIMFO already has two sister locations developed in Waco and New Braunfels, Texas. 

Chairman Sutherland stated that he has conducted his own research, and has attempted to contact the Camp FIMFO Waco staff and the town’s Planning Board.

It has been previously stated that the project would create roughly 89 full-time jobs, with nine of those being manager positions. It is expected to total around $2.5 million in wages. 

The next step still remains as the Planning Board is awaiting the review from the National Park Service and the Upper Delaware Council. 

The public hearing was recessed once again to November 30, where the Planning Board will reconvene with further information.