Times Observer file photo A proposal for a ‘small-scale’ resort at Kinzua Beach, while years in the future, has yet to draw any “harsh criticism.” The vision would bring cabins, RV sites and an expanded outdoor venue to the area.

A state-funded consultant late last year recommended a ‘small-scale’ resort at Kinzua Beach.

While the concept is more idea than project at this stage, officials are still moving ahead on some preliminary next steps.

“(We) signed an agreement yesterday (Monday) with Delta Development to do the economic impact calculations,” Jim Decker, president/CEO of the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry, said. “That’s one positive step moving forward.”

The proposal is for 18 cabins of various levels and sizes as well as 25 RV sites and an expanded outdoor event venue.

“We will be reaching out to someone who can do an artistic rendering,” Decker said, “to understand the level of impact we’re looking at.”

The recommendation was born out of a state-funded initiative that brought a consultant in to examine what might be possible in that area. This isn’t the first time a resort was proposed for Kinzua Beach.

The last time it prompted a visceral reaction in the community.

Decker said there have “certainly” been questions about the proposal but “no harsh criticism of improving the level of development at Kinzua Beach.”

Local officials have argued previously that the Forest Service has not provided the level of funding needed to maintain the amenities that were created when the Kinzua Dam was constructed.

“It comes down to finding the money,” Decker said. “(There’s) infrastructure that’s necessary – electrical, sewer, telecommunications, (that we) have to develop and put in place before we can look for above ground improvements.

“We’re talking a $20 million project,” he acknowledged. “It is not an easy lift.”

But the vision behind the project remains unchanged.

“We have this beautiful gem of an attraction that is totally underutilized,” Decker previously told the Times Observer. “(We are) trying to bring folks here to substandard facilities.”

The proposal at Kinzua Beach marks an attempt to “try to capitalize a little better on what we have.”