News: Hersheypark announces Turbulence

Posted at 6:22 PM EDT (2222 GMT)

Sep. 27th, 2004 -- HERSHEYPARK ANNOUNCES 2005 SEASON PLANS

New Ride is FIRST of its kind in the World!

HERSHEY- Blend the excitement of a roller coaster with the thrill of a free-fall ride, and you create an entirely unique amusement attraction. The name of that new ride is "Turbulence," and the experience will be available ONLY at Hersheypark in Hershey, PA!

This innovative style of drop coaster is the creation of Interactive Rides, Inc. of Logan, UT. A pivoting four-person vehicle takes riders up the side of the 150-foot structure, which is equivalent to a 15-story building. Upon reaching the top height, the vehicle moves straight out from the vertical lift and travels along the upper level of track. Then, suddenly, the vehicle drops 20 feet in a freefall curve. The vehicle levels out and then continues along the next section of track, which leads to the next freefall drop. This movement continues through a total of five drops.

Turbulence, the Park’s eleventh coaster, will be located adjacent to the famous historic Hersheypark Carrousel, which has been a guest favorite since it came to the Park 1944. The area surrounding the Carrousel, now known as Carrousel Circle, will be refurbished and renamed Founder’s Circle-- in honor of Milton S. Hershey, chocolate magnate, philanthropist, and founder of the Park. Total cost for the new ride and the renovation is approximately $4 million.

Milton S. Hershey founded Hersheypark in 1907; to commemorate the 98th season, Park officials have planned a complete makeover for Founder’s Circle. The new look will be vintage 1920’s and replicate the intricate craftsmanship and elaborate details that define the Carrousel, which was built in 1919 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company.

The new Founder’s Circle will be enhanced with more shade trees and benches. Bright colors will be featured on the new shade arbors that will incorporate the curvature of the Carrousel’s roof. Paving in the area will be a sunburst design that is embellished by stamped concrete with a cobblestone treatment.

For more information on the 2005 operating season or the 2005 Hersheypark Season Pass, now available at a discounted rate, visit the website at www.Hersheypark.com or call 1-800-HERSHEY.