Get ready for some new attractions at Coney Island: The NYC Economic Development Corporation and Parks Department just announced plans for what they call a "new large-scale water ride, adventure park, and public plaza with open-air food options and an arcade," using 150,000 square feet of city-owned land.
The area, which will be operated by Luna Park, is next to the Thunderbolt rollercoaster, and will soon be home to "an exciting new log flume and an adventure park, featuring a ropes course for visitors of all ages to climb and enjoy views of the boardwalk and ocean," the press release noted. The log flume is projected to be 40 feet high, "with spectacular ocean views and colorful lights" and a "30 mph drop from the peak." The ride won't be ready until 2020, but the adventure park will be opening next year.
Other features: A public plaza with an al fresco eatery and an arcade area. And unrelated to this development, a new hotel is expected for the area as well (its first in 50 years, according to NY1).
Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver said, "The Coney Island Amusement District is a nostalgic New York City destination, and we are proud to be a part of improving and evolving it for future generations to enjoy. We are confident that the new developments to Luna Park will add even more fun for the thousands of families that flock to Coney Island each year."
"It is an honor to work with the City of New York to continue the expansion of Luna Park and the revitalization of the historic Coney Island amusement district," said Alessandro Zamperla, President of Luna Park. "Our shared commitment to the constant growth and development of Coney Island has allowed us to burnish this iconic place. We are expanding Luna Park by 50 percent, adding new attractions and entertainment while also providing spaces where guests surrounded by timeless excitement can eat, play, rest, and escape the mundane. A spectacular new portal with thousands of glorious lights will welcome guests as they arrive from the subway, asserting Luna Park as one of the nation's most dynamic amusement destinations that must be visited by New Yorkers and tourists."
