The project has deep pockets behind it. Stanley is president of Platinum Construction Co. which is financed by software magnate Andrew Filipowski. He sold his Platinum Technology International last year for $3.5 billion.

Stanley is three-quarters of the way to his assemblage target. He already has acquired 320 acres and has also bought the site of the former Carolina Tuff-Lite Corp. He anticipates the retail portion of the venture will be leased quickly because it will offer a truck stop, hotel and highway commercial-zoned parcels.

Stanley says development costs alone could reach $20 million if he can patch together the entire 550 acres. He estimates his total investment could run as high as $250 million, once the park is fully occupied.