GREENWOOD, Ind. -- The decision by a major outdoor-gear retailer to halt construction of a new store in Greenwood has put other development plans on hold as well, 6News' Ben Morriston reported Tuesday.

The plan by Cabela's Inc. to build a store had prompted other businesses to plan construction around the site. The Candlewood Suites remains under construction, but a Kentucky developer has postponed plans to build a water park, a movie theater, a grocery store and other retail outlets.

The Nebraska-based Cabela's had planned eight U.S. store openings in 2008, but officials said last week they now plan to open only two new stores this year, and neither will be in Greenwood. Preliminary work had already begun on a large parcel of land just east of Interstate 65 in northern Johnson County.

In a financial statement released last week, the company said it intends to focus on improving the profitability of its existing operations. Company officials cited a "challenging retail environment" for the decision to shelve the Indiana store indefinitely.

Greenwood Mayor Charles Henderson said he is trying to persuade other companies to build in the area. He also said he believes Cabela's eventually will open a store in Greenwood.

"They have purchased the land. They closed on the land, so they have a huge investment there. We believe they'll do something. Will it be in a year? Will it be in two years? I don't know," Henderson said.

Cabela's planned to employ about 270 people at the Greenwood store.