VIDALIA — On Monday evening the City of Vidalia and Recreation District No. 3 approved an agreement on a land deal for recreational development, well almost.

While the board passed a motion to accept the deal it was not officially signed because the attorney representing the district was not present to examine the document.

But that did not quell the celebratory mood.

Recreation President Marc Archer said the contracts are expected to be signed within in one to two days, after their attorney has an opportunity to review them.

“As far as I’m concerned it’s a done deal,” Archer said. “This is big, big for recreation.”

Vidalia’s Mayor Hyram Copland said he was pleased with deal.

“I’m excited to see what the future holds,” he said.

While exactly what the future holds remains to be seen most are talking about a recreational complex that would provide economic stimulus to the area.

“This is a great opportunity for the area,” Copeland said.

The deal calls for the district and the city to enter a cooperative endeavor where the city and the district each purchase land near the Wal-Mart in Vidalia.

The 50 acres of land will be purchased for $17,000 per acre.

For the city’s part they will not be involved in the development of the recreational facility.

As part of the purchase agreement work on the land must begin within three years or the city can take possession of the land.

But Archer said he plans to begin developing the land as quickly as possibly.

Correction (May 13, 2008): The story about the land deal between the city of Vidalia and the recreation district that originally published May 13, 2008 incorrectly states the amount agreed for the purchase price for the 50 acres of land. The story above has been corrected. We regret the error.