It must have been a very slow news week! A few days ago the historic Cyclone Roller Coaster encountered a problem, as amusement rides sometimes do. There were no injuries. There was a successful evacuation of everyone on board. The safety mechanism designed to prevent the train from rolling backwards down the hill performed as it was supposed to. The ride was closed for repairs. End of story.
Then why all the ignorant hysteria on social media calling for the demolition of this famous landmark? If you fear the Cyclone, then stay off of it. No one is forcing you to ride it. Why pile on with idiotic remarks about “tearing it down.” Mainstream media was also filled with factual errors regarding the Cyclone and Coney Island in general. From the tone of the articles and comments you’d think that a car had flown off the coaster and landed in the ocean.
Even the newest of amusement rides have occasional problems. A closure before Labor Day is unfortunate. It’s important to remember that during the Cyclone's 97-year history it has been rebuilt and modified with new wood and steel many times in order to ensure safety. It's passed inspection year after year. The coaster has another century of life in it. Let's not repeat the mistakes of the past when there were misguided attempts to demolish the Cyclone and the Parachute Jump.
- Charles Denson
Update September 7, 2024. The Cyclone reopened this morning after being inspected by the DOB following its closure for the past two weeks for maintenance.
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