CODY, Wyo. (AP) - A study is being done to see if it would be worthwhile for the Buffalo Bill Historical Center to open a satellite museum in Scottsdale, Ariz.

The $50,000 feasibility study was approved Feb. 9 by the Scottsdale City Council, BBHC Executive Director Bob Shimp said.

"It's too early to say whether it will work out or not," he said.

Shimp said the idea interests him because Scottsdale's busy season in the winter months coincides with Cody's slow time and 8.5 million people annually visit the Arizona vacation spot.

"It would introduce us to a new audience and broaden our reputation," Shimp added. "And it would provide another location for exhibitions."

The idea originated with Scottsdale officials who approached the historical center about developing and operating a Western art museum, he said.

The BBHC would remain committed to Cody and add the Scottsdale satellite "only if it's a great deal," Shimp said.

A recommendation may be ready for the BBHC board in June, he said.

AP-WS-02-16-04 1126EST