I can confirm that almost all reusable hardware has been removed from Vortex, ride control systems, induction sensors, brakes, pneumatic systems and lift hardware.
^^ So you want it to stay where it is, but in pieces and with concrete and zero trees for as far as the eye can see?
You know... I hadn't really thought of Backlot being themed to a mine train, but I actually really like that idea. It'd be like our own little version of Hong Kong Disneyland's Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars. It could even be, like, a haunted mine train with lots of effects in the tunnel from the MCBR to the former splashdown.
Aaaaand now I'm gonna be daydreaming about this all afternoon.
Vortex removal is certainly a planned event unlike SoB, Wildcat at CP in 2012 or KD's Volcano.
I would expect to see activity (i.e. stakes in ground) in a few years. A bigger sign something will be done with the area is if the station house remains in some capacity.
I really don’t see this being the end of Vortex, but rather an upgrade. I could be wrong, however we have rides similar to Vortex and older than Vortex still in operation, Loch Ness for example, Corkscrew, Viper, Demon, I’m not sure that the ride is at the end of its cycle, I think there’s something going on.
I expect we will get a new coaster in Vortex’s spot in 2022 for the 50 year anniversary. CF is investing HEAVILY into KI as evidenced by 4 new coasters in 11 years. I don’t see them sitting with this property empty for long as it would be an eyesore and anger people. They have a plan as this was not a last second decision. I hope they don’t move the cam and we can see the destruction of this beloved coaster in real time.
It really sounds like Cedar Fair isn't interested in keeping the other surviving arrows in tip top shape, but instead keeping them on life support until they no longer can. Basically like a giant band-aid.
Dollywood. It is the only park besides Kings Island that I have ever had a pass to. While it is five hours away, I still consider it like a second home park. The shows, events, and rides are all pretty well rounded. I can`t wait to take my kids there.
Have to give another shout out to that little park in Southern Indiana, Holiday World. Made a lot of pilgrimmages there as well.
I would love to see backlot retheme however theming it to a junkyard wouldn’t be that good imo. My main gripe with this coaster is how ugly it is especially for a coaster that’s in the middle of the park. Theming it to a junkyard wouldn’t do a lot to fix this issue imo.
I was not sure where to actually ask this or post about it so here it goes.
Since the park actually listens to its fans and brought back the Tique's in 2019. Is it possible to start a campaign to bring back Phantom Theater? This is literally the biggest thing I miss about KI. I would beg for them to bring this back from my knees if I could haha. This was such an amazing ride growing up. is there anyone else that would help me along my way to get the Phantom back in his rightful place? Maybe we can get KI reps to answer the question?
Help The Phantom and myself out!!! haha