CP Skyscraper Not Ready, Will Be Soon

May 10, 2008

By Annie Zelm, The Sandusky Register

Thrill-seekers will have to wait a little longer to take a spin on Cedar Point’s newest ride.

Skyscraper, scheduled to debut this summer in the Challenge Park activity complex, will not be ready in time for opening weekend, but officials say they hope to have it operating later this month.

“Disassembly and relocation to Challenge Park has taken longer than we anticipated,” park spokesman Bryan Edwards said.

The 160-foot tower resembles a giant propeller, with two arms that spin guests in a full circle. Four riders sit in open cars with their feet dangling on opposite ends of the propeller. The arms rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, spinning riders 16 stories into the air at up to 55 mph.

Not brave enough to give the two-minute ride a go? Visitors can still take part in the fun by watching a live, streaming video of the passengers.

Skyscraper will have an individual ride fee, and admission to Cedar Point will not be required.

“We are very excited about introducing a ride of this caliber to Challenge Park,” said Bill Spehn, vice president of park operations for Cedar Point. “Skyscraper will be a great addition to the thrilling rides and experiences that we offer our guests this summer.”

Manufactured by Gravity Works, Inc., in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, the ride first debuted in 1997 and has since gained popularity at 15 amusement parks across the U.S. and Canada.

Gravity Works general manager Matt Lawrence said the $400,000 ride requires very little maintenance and few operating costs once installed.

“It’s just an amazing experience,” Lawrence said. “It’s one of the highest and fastest amusement rides out there.”

Located between Cedar Point and Soak City, Challenge Park also features the Rip-Cord Skycoaster, two high-speed go-kart tracks and two challenging 18-hole miniature golf courses.

Challenge Park is open to the public, and admission to Cedar Point or Soak City is not required. Each attraction requires a separate fee.