In late December, Hardeeville City Council members approved final plans for the $25 million Butterfly Kingdom development on 82 acres of the former Sergeant Jasper State Park. With the approval, developer John E. Rosenberg said construction should begin in "a couple of months." The development includes a 13,000-square-foot butterfly enclosure, including a glassed roof and subdivided into various simulations of geography. "This will be one of the most unique such conservatories in the United States," said architect Bill Brewer. "It will be educational, create jobs and provide an economic boost." Hardeeville recently annexed the site and, also Thursday night, approved an agreement with Jasper County to supply the area with water and sewer service. Mayor Pro Tem Bronco Bostick asked Brewer about employment at the Butterfly Kingdom, and Brewer responded that at least 100 people will eventually be working there, and many times that number at the associated businesses at the development, including shops, restaurants, an outdoor garden and hotels. A golf course also is proposed adjacent the Butterfly Kingdom. Rosenberg, chief executive officer of the Butterfly Kingdom, told the Jasper County Council that his company is nearly ready to begin construction. He described the venture as a three- to four-day experience for families, including a high-end hotel, five-star restaurant, IMAX theater and Butterfly Kingdom. "We will pull people off of the interstate, and they'll see that this is a top-notch vacation place that can serve as a base of operations," Rosenberg said. "They'll want to stay here and visit Hardeeville, Ridgeland, Hilton Head and Savannah."