What we reported: Grand Texas broke ground on Big Rivers Waterpark—a 40-acre waterpark inspired by Texas rivers—on Dec. 14 in New Caney. Big Rivers will feature attractions, such as slides, raft rides like “Storm Surge,” a wave pool, a splash pad and a lazy river. The waterpark will open Memorial Day weekend along with Gator Bayou Adventure Park, Grand Texas CEO Monty Galland said. The site is located at the intersection of Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 242. What’s next: The two-year construction process on Grand Texas’ namesake amusement park and sports complex is expected to begin when Big Rivers completes a successful season, Galland said. Construction on all the entertainment venues within the theme park is estimated to cost more than $2 billion, Galland said. This story is one update from The January Issue. View the full list of Top 7 stories to follow in 2018 here.