Major Expansion Underway at Waldameer

Waldammer Park, Erie's favorite hometown amusement park, is planning a major expansion to its north end.

From ETN:

The multi-million-dollar expansion will feature three new rides -- 41-foot Flying Swings plus a teacup and tugboat-style attractions -- expected to arrive in Erie in late spring. All three rides will be ready to roll -- and pitch and soar -- when the park opens in May, owner Paul Nelson said. Visitors will enter the North End through a 20-foot decorative archway located between the Sea Dragon and Ravine Flyer II. The area will be extensively landscaped with statues, an eight-foot fountain and gardens where visitors can enjoy jazz music by WQLN public radio.

Since adding the "Thunder River" ride in 1996, Waldameer has been making off-season upgrades regularly, and the investment is paying off. Waldameer has become a regional tourist destination, drawing throngs of visitors all summer long. The north-end expansion should continue that trend. I'm looking forward to the view of Lake Erie from the new Flying Swings.