WETTER AND WILDER
Log flume to bring waves of joy as Coney plans new attractions
Coney Island is hoping to make a splash with a new log flume and other attractions set to open in the next two years.
The city announced plans to expand Brooklyn’s seaside amusement area Luna Park by nearly 50% by building on empty lots that sit near the Boardwalk between W. 10th and W. 16th Sts.
On deck are a log flume, circus-themed adventure park with ropes course, arcade and public plaza with open-air food court, all to be developed on 150,000 square feet of city-owned vacant land next to the Thunderbolt roller coaster.
“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,” Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver said in a statement. “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.”
The adventure park and public plaza are expected to open next summer, while the log flume will cool off riders starting in the summer of 2020.
The water ride will stretch out on a 1,200-foot track and boast drops of 30 and 40 feet while hitting a maximum speed of 35 mph.
“Coney Island is both a cherished summertime destination and an important economic engine for South Brooklyn,” said James Patchett, President and CEO of the New York City Economic Development Corp. “With these exciting new attractions and our ongoing investments in housing and infrastructure, Coney Island’s future has never looked brighter.”
Those enjoying the zip lines will get a good look at that future, along with views of the Boardwalk and ocean.
Central Amusement International, which runs Luna Park and is owned by the Zamperla Group, is planning the construction.
“It’s wonderful for Coney Island,” Dick Zigun, founder of the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, told the Daily News. “All it displaces are weed-filled long-empty lots and street dead ends.”
“I can’t wait,” added the longtime Coney Island fixture. “Bring it on! Let’s make Coney Island a world-class amusement park again.”