The operators of Coney Island’s Luna Park this summer will be taking control of the world-famous Cyclone roller coaster next door.
The city today confirmed it was handing Zamperla USA control of the 84-year-old landmark ride for 2011 and would then solicit public bids before dishing out a long-term contract.
The Italy-based ride manufacturer is interested in such a long-term deal and is considered the favorites to get it, sources said. Zamperla, which is also bringing two smaller coasters to the boardwalk this summer, plans to make some repairs to the Cyclone before reopening it in April.
Zamperla replaces Carol Hill Albert, whose family ran the wooden ride under a city lease since 1975. Albert had asked out of her lease in October because operating the Cyclone had become “too costly.” She also operated fabled Astroland Park before closing its doors in 2008 and paving way for the opening on Luna Park in the same location.