St. Louis hopes to revive historic station
Plans are now in the works to turn a section of Union Station into an entertainment area, complete with a 200-foot Ferris wheel and a rollercoaster. The renovation could cost up to $60m.
A large part of the station, once used by retailers, is still sitting vacant and it is here that developers hope to bring in a new lease of life. A small lake now lies underneath the train shed (the area outside the station proper where passengers board trains) and the rollercoaster will soar over it, according to plans. The Ferris wheel will be tall enough to give riders a clear view of the downtown area. The wheel's gondolas will be enclosed, and have air conditioning and heat. A carousel is also planned, as is what has been called a “water mist light show”.
Union Station was built in 1894 and was one of the busiest passenger stations in the country for many years. Amtrak left in 1978, but there have been some excursion trains run from the renovated facility.
One of these was the ‘Polar Express’ ride service on offer over the holiday season. Due to its success, the program is scheduled again for this year.
City officials could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents describing the renovations and encouraging them to visit the station.
A large part of the station, once used by retailers, is still sitting vacant and it is here that developers hope to bring in a new lease of life. A small lake now lies underneath the train shed (the area outside the station proper where passengers board trains) and the rollercoaster will soar over it, according to plans. The Ferris wheel will be tall enough to give riders a clear view of the downtown area. The wheel's gondolas will be enclosed, and have air conditioning and heat. A carousel is also planned, as is what has been called a “water mist light show”.
Union Station was built in 1894 and was one of the busiest passenger stations in the country for many years. Amtrak left in 1978, but there have been some excursion trains run from the renovated facility.
One of these was the ‘Polar Express’ ride service on offer over the holiday season. Due to its success, the program is scheduled again for this year.
City officials could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents describing the renovations and encouraging them to visit the station.