International Street Landscaping

[DBInternational]

Believe it or not, I have another question about Kings Island history.

When and why did KI change the landscaping in International Street. If you aren't sure what i'm talking about, take a look at these photos:

See what i mean? In the first picture the walkway was parallel to what i think is a slanted slab of concrete with shrubbery of some sort on it. And now there's grass and a bunch of tall trees. When did they make this change and why? I've seen pictures with and without trees there, but never with the trees small and growing.

Thanks once again,

DBI

[The Interpreter]

There were issues with some members of the public deciding to enter the fountain, among other things. Safety is paramount.

[flightoffear1996]

I actually like the trees there better.

[The Interpreter]

And the fences...

[TheCrypt]

There were issues with some members of the public deciding to enter the fountain, among other things. Safety is paramount.

So spaced out trees remedy the situation? I feel as if a fence would have sufficed, versus changing the entire look.

[The Interpreter]

There are other measures also employed. The trees are part of that. They were saplings when they were planted. International Street also used to have curbs. They were removed to reduce falls.

The trees provide shade for sitting patrons, including those of the various food stands.

[stashua123]

Okay i understand the trees and such but seriously a 7 inch fall isnt that much

[matthunterross]

They add a ton of ambiance. Plus, they're a godsend in the middle of summer. I vote trees.

[KI-ORIG-EMP]

I once broke my ankle when my foot twisted after stepping down from a curb going into a shopping mall. You can fall and injure yourself on a 7 inch curb.

[The Interpreter]

Or a one inch fall. Especially if you trip. As many did.

[TheCrypt]

Especially on hot pavement.

Ouch.

[TombRaiderFTW]

I always heard the International Street curbs were a hazard, so it surprised me this summer to see that Great Adventure has several curbs. Is it because of a difference in state laws, or is it just a matter of park preference/attempts to avoid liability?

[The Interpreter]

I think the difference is where the curbs are. Great Adventure's streets look and are far more street like. That street was modeled after Kings Island, as was much of the park. It's called Dream Street. The two giant turtles that live in the park are named Fred and Wilma. And the marketing director's favorite roller coaster is The Beast.

[DBInternational]

I think that it looked better without the trees because you could view the shops better. But then again the shade is pretty awesome during the summer.