The New Noah's Ark

Although I realize there has already been discussion about the Noah's ark theme park being built in Kentucky, I really want to discuss it on here. The Noah's ark them park, coined "Ark Encounter", is set to open up in Grant County, Kentucky. The plan is to construct a full-size replica of Noah’s ark, load it with animals and actors, and make it the centerpiece of a Bible-based tourist attraction.

I think it's such an awesome idea! How cool would it be to walk through the ark and see all of the different animals! However, many people have qualms about a religion-based theme park opening up with the governments money. Many claim that the government backing an enterprise that promotes religion violates the First Amendment’s requirement of separation of church and state. Although I can see the point of view from these people and understand how people could view this as a violation of the first amendment, the governor of Kentucky, Steven L. Beshear, claims he is not opening this park in order to debate religion, he is opening this park to create jobs.

I am very interested as to how this is going to play out. I can see both sides, and obviously since I am a Christian I am excited about the possible aspect of being able to walk through "Noah's ark". However, if I am trying to look at both sides, I can see how people who do not want the park see it as a violation of their rights. What do you guys think? How do you think it will all play out?