After much anticipation, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame proposal appears headed in a positive direction.

The fundraising effort needed to build the $17 million facility recently got under way, and already three major donors have stepped forward. The fundraising effort will reach across the country and possibly overseas. Bass fishing is a major sport and recreational activity around the world. Bringing the hall of fame to Cullman will actually provide this area and Alabama with an attraction that has international appeal.

Each year, the hall of fame board of directors host an induction banquet and ceremony recognizing top anglers and others tied to the fishing industry. The last event was held for the first time in Alabama.

Tied to the hall of fame will be major educational opportunities for visitors. Efforts to involve Auburn University would provide research capacities and a chance to teach new and old anglers alike about the value of protecting sensitive environmental features that bass and other varieties of aquatic life rely upon.

The City of Cullman is also looking at including a civic center with the hall of fame, which would provide the area a significant reach into the lucrative convention and trade show business. For area retail businesses, restaurants and hotels, both the hall of fame and civic center represent tremendous opportunities.

The possibilities associated with this project are layered with rewards in many areas. Good Hope will see retail growth. The tourism trade will grow. More people across the region and country will hear about Cullman County and turn their travel plans to this region for this major attraction.

Patience with such a project is important. That’s paying off today. Fundraising will increase with the news that work is beginning on a long-awaited interchange off Interstate 65 near the project site. By 2016, local residents may well witness the opening of a major attraction in their back yard. With such a project moving forward, local officials need to be prepared to capitalize on this tremendous potential. Community planning efforts will make this project well worthwhile in the years ahead.