I do agree that Kennywood is long overdue for a new coaster. This is even more important because Waldameer is growing and put in a top-notch coaster last year. If WP continues to grow, it could become a major competitor to KW in about a decade. Also, with GL gone, KW needs to provide more ways to attract those who formerly went there. Ohio is where they are looking for future attendance growth.
As for the Turnpike, I would like to see this ride rebuilt at Idlewild. It would be perfect at that park. The same cars could be used. For kids that like a U-drive-em ride at KW, the Auto Race remains.
I know that the Dancing Waters is just a minor attraction but there was always something charming about that section of the park with the gardens between the entrance tunnel and the Carousel. Something sort of like the "old" Elitch's Gardens in character. Just so KW doesnt lose its charm and landscaping. Thrills are important but it's the charm that sets KW apart from many comparably sized parks.
Arthur Bahl
Might be able to weave a Eurofighter in and around the trees. ;)
Personally, I'd rather see a woodie of course, but given the size of the area, I'd wager on compact steel.
The rumor going around a few years ago was that they were removing the flume. If that happens, I won't be happy no matter what they replace it with.
-Travis
www.youtube.com/TSVisits
If it is either the Turnpike or the Log Jammer that goes, I hope that it's the Turnpike that is removed. This ride hasn't been the same since they replaced the gas powered cars. The problem with the Turnpike is low capacity because each car only holds 2 people. It is a beautiful route but the ride does take up a lot of space.
I certainly don't want to see the Log Jammer go. I agree that is is one of the best flumes around because of its unique roller-coaster-like dip. The ride seemed smoother this year when I rode it so apparently the track is getting the care that it needs.
By the way, there were several reasons for replacing the gas powered cars. This ride used to require so many operators back then (about a dozen on busy days) because each car was stopped by having an operator jump onto the side of the car and depress a pedal there so that the drivers wouldn't run through the loading area. There was also the problem of blockages and collisions because drivers could stop the cars anywhere on the track. Finally, the gas powered cars has a higher minimum height (even for riders accompanied by an adult).
Arthur Bahl
I dropped the hint in my earlier comment. The Log Jammer is safe and sound for now. Call Cedar Point and ask if they miss the last three they demolished.
Waldameer Park will NEVER be competition to Kennywood. Those are 2 separate mindsets and entities. Like Geauga Lake was never competion to Cedar Point. Yea, SF added some great stuff, but eventually the lipstick rubs off the bull, and well, it all ends the same.
Waldameer will have their hands full in 3 years or so, and its not Kennywood. As for the Turnpike, like I said, its not the same with the electric cars. Nice ride, but not the same.
There will be oohs and ahhs tomorrow morning, some dissappointments, and some happiness. You can't put all the great rides in one park. But a great park like Kennywood can have decent rides (ie. Exterminator) and make it a great experience.
Based on the hints in the email Western PA ACE members got tonight, it's Turnpike that's going (I'd already gathered that earlier).
As much as I'd love to see new wood, that's NOT what I've learned. We'll know in a few hours...
--Greg
"You seem healthy. So much for voodoo."
Any idea what time they are going to do the announcement?
I am going out on a limb, and gonna say it's a Eurofighter coaster. Just a gut feeling I have.
what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard.
Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it.
I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.
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