I doubt it will remain free to the locals. Local tax/fee exemptions rarely last long as they create a two class citizenry. First it will be just objections by some user to showing Papers or proof of where they live. Then what about the family and friends from out of state that visit and go with local family or friends, are they going to card everyone?
On the happy note, the pictures look good, and it looks like the walkway will provide more photo op areas when done.
Yes I suspect you may well be right, but as it happens i will most likely have moved from here before that happens ;)