Looks like SFGAm will be getting Chang.

The Gurnee Zoming Board gave first approval to the new (old) coaster at a meeting last night. They had to grant approval for the height variance.

Mr. Salemi did verify that it would be a stand-up so the worst kept secret in the world is now verified. Chang will assume some new name/themeing at SFGAm.

It's going to be at the front of the park in the area where Space Shuttle America is located and it sounds like maybe the Go-Kart track layout will be changed as well. Some parking will be lost as part of the footprint uses the parking lot and the ride actually gets quite close to the entrance plaza.

The full Gurnee Village Board now has to grant approval but in the past once the zoning variance is granted they pretty much rubber stamp the deal.

Park reps said the park would be losing 90 existing guest automobile parking spaces with the installation of coaster.

Should be interesting. Saw a photo of the plan and the last half of the ride pretty much eats into the current entry-plaza. I'd like to see how they plan on integrating Chang seamlessly into the front section of the park.

Video from Wednesday night:
http://sfgamzone.com/index.php?showtopic=1819&st=0#entry5200202

Does anyone know why this park has a height restriction of 150'? Wasn't Gurnee a complete nothing-ville when this park was built? Why would Mariott agree to this, or was this something the city council adopted after the park was built?

Pretty sure it's to not disturb the skyline for the pesky residents. And back when Great America broke ground, who would have thought we'd have 450-foot tall roller coasters?

Interesting...The only complaints from the public comments section of the hearing had nothing to do with the height. just the usual complaints about noise,trash, traffic, etc.

The moderator (I'm sure there's a better word) pointed out after the public comments that those complaints/comments had no bearing on approval since they didn't address any concerns about the height which is what the hearing was for.

I'm sure there will be a repeat performance when the Village Board votes.