New ride at Cedar Point good for city coffers

Sunday, 17 September 2006

By BRANDI BARHITE
brandibarhite@sanduskyregister.com

SANDUSKY

Sandusky isn't banking on it, but a financial windfall when Cedar Point's newest ride debuts next summer would be nice.

The city has historically brought in more tourism dollars when Cedar Point makes a major investment in the park.

When the park introduced the $25 million Millennium Force in 2000, the city brought in $2,488,309 in admissions taxes -- the highest ever.

When the park unveiled the $25 million Top Thrill Dragster in 2003, the city came close to its record with $2,488,178.

In comparison, the park's $6 million Skyhawk -- a giant swinging ride -- has led to $2.47 million in admissions taxes so far this year. The city collects 3 percent on Cedar Point admissions and 3 percent on bed taxes.

"Certainly, we are thrilled with their continued investment in the city since they are one of our prime business partners," said Commissioner Craig Stahl, who serves as the liaison on the city's finance committee. "I am also sure that the local hotels and spin-off businesses associated with the amusement park industry are just as hopeful this will bring in more tourism dollars."

Cedar Point announced Sept. 7 that Maverick will debut in the park in May 2007. The Western theme roller coaster will cost $21 million -- the park's third largest ride investment.

Sandusky's Senior Accountant/Auditor Hank Solowiej said it's difficult to quantify the impact that the capital improvement will have on city coffers.

Factors like gas prices, unemployment and weather must also be considered, he said.

Cedar Point spokesman Bryan Edwards said the park expects to see a spike in attendance with Maverick. Historically, the park has seen this with major investments, he said.

"Debuting a marquee ride, definitely helps generate increased interest," Edwards said.

When the Millennium Force opened in 2000, the park's attendance swelled to 3.4 million. The following year with no major new ride, attendance dropped to 3.1 million. In 2003, the park unveiled Top Thrill Dragster -- the world's largest and fastest roller coaster. Even with coaster problems, attendance was 3.3 million that year.

Sandusky Finance Director Ed Widman said Cedar Point has a history of making improvements of some kind every year so it is difficult to determine what the impact is on city revenues.

However, taxes are at a higher level with the investment than if there was no investment, he said.

"Investment in Sandusky is always good for Sandusky and Sandusky's residents," Widman said.

FunCoast.com is your online guide to summer fun for Cedar Point, the LakeErie Islands and Sandusky area. Our site offers up-to-date information on area attractions, restaurants, hotels, gasoline prices, ferry schedules, swimming, birding and fishing, along with a complete listing of events happening in the Sandusky/Cedar Point area. To use our Webcam and zoom in on Cedar Point's rollercoasters, go to http://funcam.funcoast.com

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