gisco Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 Good for them. I never thought they would do it. I wonder if the lenders gave them the 25 million or they had to invest more of there own money. Either way it is good news. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sethdawg17 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 (edited) www.kentuckykingdom.com/kentucky-kingdom-launches-biggest-expansion-in-the-25-year-history-of-the-park/ Ed Hart, President of Kentucky Kingdom, LLLP, along with his partners Ed Glasscock, Bruce Lunsford, and the Al J. Schneider Company, today announced the biggest expansion in Kentucky Kingdom’s 25-year history. The announcement was made just an hour after representatives of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Metro Louisville, the Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Kentucky State Fair Board, and The Bank of Kentucky signed the agreements required for the official reopening of Kentucky Kingdom. Standing just inside the front entrance to the theme park, Mr. Hart remarked, “The highlights of the new Kentucky Kingdom will be the addition of the first new rollercoaster in 17 years and a large expansion of the Hurricane Bay water park. We are doubling the size of the water park, adding three new waterslide complexes, a 12-000-square-foot wave lagoon, and an adventure river, which is six times faster than the existing lazy river. All in all, we will have one of the largest water parks in the region.” “We will also reopen such signature rides as the Thunder Run wooden coaster, the Mile High Falls giant spill ride, the 150-foot-tall Giant Wheel, the rapid river raft ride, and the Thrill Park Theatre, as well as all of the park’s remaining rides and attractions.” Added Hart, “We’re not stopping there. In 2015, we will unveil a complete makeover of our suspended looping coaster, T2, and we are well on our way to converting the two intertwined wooden coasters known as Twisted Twins into a much superior ride, which will debut in 2016. We will continue to introduce new attractions each season. In fact, per our lease with the state, we have an obligation to invest as much as $2.5 million each year for as many as 70 years. That would equal an investment of more than $200 million, including our initial outlay of $43.5 million.” Hart thanked the Governor, the Mayor, the Metro Council, Jim King, other state and local officials, and particularly Dr. Mark Lynn, Chairman of the Fair Board, for recognizing the importance of Kentucky Kingdom to the state and the local community.” Mr. Lynn commented, “Ed Hart and his partners, all respected local businesspersons, are the right people at the right time to restore Kentucky Kingdom to its previous success. A full-scale renovation of the park’s more than 100 buildings and 40 rides is already underway.” Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the new Kentucky Kingdom are attached. As for answers to any questions that might not be covered on that list, Hart said, “We’d like to tell you about everything we’re going to do over the next ten months, so we encourage you to follow our progress at http://www.kentuckykingdom.com, where frequent updates will be posted.” "I've been waiting a long time to say this: 'It's a go!'" - Ed Hart, President of Kentucky Kingdom. http://www.kentuckykingdom.com/faq/ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSFIND ANSWERS HERE FIRST 1. WHEN WILL THE PARK REOPEN? Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay will reopen on Saturday, May 24, 2014 2. ARE YOU HIRING? Have we got a job for you! Kentucky Kingdom will be the largest seasonal employer in the region and we will begin recruiting for seasonal positions as early as December, 2013. Please check our website (http://www.kentuckykingdom.com) for further information. 3. WHO’S ON FIRST? The Kentucky Kingdom Redevelopment Company (KKRC) consists of a team of experienced theme park professionals who have successfully revitalized two previously failed theme parks: Magic Springs & Crystal Falls in Hot Springs, Arkansas and, before that, Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville, Kentucky. 4. WHAT RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS DO YOU HAVE? Where do you want to start? Wet or dry? We have something for everyone and every age! The entire 60-acre Kentucky Kingdom property is undergoing a complete facelift and the 2014 season will see the largest expansion in Kentucky Kingdom’s 25-year history. Not only will we reopen Mt. Slide Hai and all of the park’s other water slides, the “Deluge” water coaster, the lazy river, the children’s activity pools, and our famous 750,000-gallon Big Kahuna wave pool, but we will more than double the size of the water park, adding a wave lagoon (an attraction the whole family will love!), three wet and wild water slide complexes, and an adventure river that speeds you along at six times the rate of the water park’s existing lazy river. And this is only what’s happening in the water park! We will reopen all of the park’s remaining rides, including of course the classic marquee attractions like Thunder Run, Mile High Falls, the Giant Wheel, and the Thrill Park Theatre, and on top of that … drumroll !… we are introducing the first new rollercoaster to be added to Kentucky Kingdom in 17 years. We will continue to add new attractions each season. In 2015, we will unveil a complete makeover of our suspended looping coaster, T2, and we are well on our way to converting the two intertwined wooden coasters formerly known as Twisted Twins into a much superior ride, which will debut in 2016. This is just a brief glimpse into all of the improvements that will be taking place at Kentucky Kingdom, so we invite you to follow our progress on our website, http://www.kentuckykingdom.com, where frequent updates will be posted. 5. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET INTO THE PARK? We intend to make Kentucky Kingdom the region’s top destination for affordable family fun. The park will be priced more reasonably than the other theme parks in the region, especially when it comes to season passes. 6. WILL YOU OFFER SEASON PASSES? We’re printing them as we speak! Season passes to Kentucky Kingdom have always been a great value, but now, with all the new attractions we’re adding, the value only gets better. Season passes make great gifts for the holidays and they will be available in plenty of time for Santa. 7. WHAT ABOUT GROUP OUTINGS? We have special discount pricing for groups of varying sizes (the bigger the group, the bigger the discount). In addition, we offer a wide variety of catered picnics, one of which is sure to fit your group’s budget. Edited June 27, 2013 by jedimaster1227 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Woodie Warrior Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 It sounds like the park really won't be worth traveling to visit until 2016. I wonder if maybe we could see Twisted Twins get the Iron Horse treatment? I have no clue what the will be doing to T2. Anyways, congrats to them. This park should be awesome by 2016. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ratdogg68 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 Glad to see it finally come forth, now to see where it goes. I most likely will buy a Season Pass to visit the Waterpark several times a summer, I only live 10 miles away. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
QueerRudie Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I was a bit disappointed in that no mention was made of Tidal Wave/Greezed Lightnin' myself. A mediocre wooden coaster being renovated & a Vekoma Hang and Bang got more attention. This alone makes me wonder what's going on with the Launchingracer there. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geauga Dog Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 "We will also reopen such signature rides as the Thunder Run wooden coaster, the Mile High Falls giant spill ride, the 150-foot-tall Giant Wheel, the rapid river raft ride, and the Thrill Park Theatre, as well as all of the park’s remaining rides and attractions.” Based on this it sounds like Greezed Lightning might reopen as it doesn't exactly say that any rides will be removed (though there could be a possibility of being SBNO until they decide what to do with it). I'm hoping it will get refurbished and run again. This would be a great opportunity to find a better way to bridge the two sides together but I don't think they will do anything about it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Midgetman82 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 ^^ & ^^^ They mentioned way back that Greezed Lightnin' was damaged beyond repair, and that he really didn't want to touch it. Not sure if he's still sticking with that, but I'd expect it. All I can say now is that they can expect me to purchase a season pass as soon as it's available. Heck, I might make a run to see if that new sign is still there. It's so nice to finally see something physically new in the park for once; even if it's just words. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Intaman Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I am excited that this park will finally reopen. Since I never had the chance to visit this park, it adds another destination to the area, and of course, some new credits and experiences. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CpBluestreakCp Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 Great to see the park finally getting new life and reopening. Can't wait to see what else happens down the road with Kentucky Kingdom. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ernierocker Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 Kind of surprised they expect to get Thunder Run up and running right away. I thought I heard that ride was in pretty bad shape? I guess if the new coaster is interesting enough I might try and make the trip next year. Come on Aquatrax! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yay101 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I'm happy this park is re-opening. And I think Twisted Twins is getting some RMC treament, maybe with a zero-G roll? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Koasterking48 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 Nice to see one of my local parks getting back up and going! I really wonder what the new coaster will be. While I hope it's a Aquatrax (to compliment Holiday World's mega-lite I hope they get ), it may be something more like a Mauer Sohne. I recall seeing a picture on their website of one, though that obviously doesn't confirm it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jew Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 ^I bet the new coaster will be a kiddie/family coaster. I can't imagine them spending so much money after the waterpark investment. The focus on refurbishing rides still leads me to believe the park is headed towards becoming a waterpark with a limited selection of the dry rides remaining open. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GrapesLie Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 This is really some great news. Kentucky Kingdom could end up being a really amazing park. Fact is it just takes time to get everything up and running! Lets just hope this new roller coaster is awesome! Intamin Please! Either way open park is always better than a closed park! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Koasterking48 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 ^I bet the new coaster will be a kiddie/family coaster. I can't imagine them spending so much money after the waterpark investment. The focus on refurbishing rides still leads me to believe the park is headed towards becoming a waterpark with a limited selection of the dry rides remaining open. The problem I see with that is Holiday World is HUGE competition with them in the water park area. Kentucky Kingdom would have to really step up their game to be on par with HW. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beatle11 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 Wow, it sounds like it might be ok to start holding my breath here. I can see T2 getting the new trains like at Morey's. I could see GCI or GG coming in to repair the Twins and putting Millennium Flyers or Timberliners on them. Whatever happens, it sounds like good news for the park. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mikeykaise Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I'm so happy to have my city's park opening next year. My only concern is if they start making a profit and becomes very popular will Ed screw up again and sell it to another big park corporation that will run it into the ground. I sure hope not, and I know its a really slim chance of happening but I wouldn't mind seeing the in-door coaster brought back once more. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AusCoasterFan Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I have no clue what the will be doing to T2. My nearest SLC recently got new trains made by KumbaK. I also hear the SLC at Morey's Piers got new trains - not sure who made them if anybody could help me out with that... Anyway, the new trains have a lap-bar with the OTSR design being more like a seat-belt over each shoulder. Apparently the ride is far more comfortable and reduces the headbanging. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rollercoaster Rider Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 My Guesses on the New Coaster: - Zamperla Motorbike Coaster - Intamin Zac Spin - Gerstlaurer Euro Fighter - Multi Loop Launch from Premier Rides (Maybe a Superman Ultimate Flight Clone) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Metsfan0618 Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I have no clue what the will be doing to T2. My nearest SLC recently got new trains made by KumbaK. I also hear the SLC at Morey's Piers got new trains - not sure who made them if anybody could help me out with that... Anyway, the new trains have a lap-bar with the OTSR design being more like a seat-belt over each shoulder. Apparently the ride is far more comfortable and reduces the headbanging. I've been on the new trains at Morey's multiple times. Exactly like you said, its basically a lap bar with a soft padded lightweight seatbelt over your chest. They help A LOT. Makes a much better ride experience. You don't even get much headbanging through the inline twists. Its a great investment. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
IronWolfman Posted June 27, 2013 Share Posted June 27, 2013 I was a bit disappointed in that no mention was made of Tidal Wave/Greezed Lightnin' myself. A mediocre wooden coaster being renovated & a Vekoma Hang and Bang got more attention. This alone makes me wonder what's going on with the Launchingracer there. Yeah, I feel sorry for Greezed Lightnin' but at least if Twisted Twins gets an RMC treatment, it will make up for the loss of a great Schwarzy... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TyRush Posted June 28, 2013 Share Posted June 28, 2013 I love how now anytime a park says a wooden refurbishment is in place we jump to RMC! But hey i hope for it too! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jray21 Posted June 28, 2013 Share Posted June 28, 2013 Glad that it really seems to be happening. It'll be interesting to see what they end up doing with the woodie. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mudvayneimn Posted June 28, 2013 Share Posted June 28, 2013 I'm wondering if the plan that was submitted to the Fair Board is still happening. They made mention of the steel coaster but no mention of the family wooden coaster that would take up Greezed Lightnin' and roadrunner/sky coaster's spot. Either way, glad this is really happening. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LiMiT Posted June 28, 2013 Share Posted June 28, 2013 Guys, this new roller coaster is our chance to try to get another Mega-lite! I already suggested that SFOG get one. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now