Branson aquarium expected to open in November

Aquarium at the Boardwalk, a $51 million project in the works in Branson, is expected to open by year's end.

Aileen Stein, spokesperson for Los Angeles-based developer Kuvera Partners, said mid-November is the target date for launch.

"We’re currently in the process of preparing the aquarium for our fish population," Stein said, noting the attraction would have more than 7,000 individual animals representing some 250 species.

Finishing touches at the attraction include a 76-feet-wide by 36-feet-tall mural by artist John Pugh. Known for his murals that give the illusion of a three-dimensional view, Pugh is slated to work on the Branson project for about a month.

Pugh's Branson mural will focus on the aquarium and sea animals, according to a news release.

“This project is providing me with an opportunity to visit Branson for the first time,” said Pugh, who’s from Truckee, California, in the release. “I’ve been very taken with the natural beauty and history of the area, and I’m looking forward to spending the next month here, creating something that will be unique to this destination.”

Crossland Construction Co. Inc. started construction on the 46,000-square-foot aquarium early last year. The aquarium is the first attraction by Kuvera Partners for a development called Branson Boardwalk, located at the site of the former Grand Palace.

The aquarium project is in line for $7 million in tax increment financing assistance over 15-23 years, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting.