Coaster Proposed for St. Louis Union Station

A new roller coaster could be in St. Louis’ future, but it won’t be built at Six Flags St. Louis.

According to local media, construction could begin as early as February 2015 on a $60 million upgrade to the historic Union Station in downtown St. Louis.

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The plans also call for other attractions, such as a giant ferris wheel and carousel:

Plans include a roller coaster that will pass over the small lake beneath the train shed and a Ferris wheel tall enough to give riders a panoramic view of downtown. Its enclosed gondolas will be heated and air-conditioned. Other planned attractions include a carousel and a “water mist light show,” officials said.

The project is far from a sealed deal. There are numerous economic and feasibility hurtles for developers to overcome before construction begins. But the proposal is interesting, nonetheless.

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Union Station, a National Historic Landmark, opened as a rail station in 1894. Its rail traffic subsided, so in 1985 the station was converted into a “festival marketplace” entertainment destination with shopping, dining and more.

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Pictured above is the St. Louis Union Station mall as it appears today.

What do you think about a roller coaster, ferris wheel and other attractions at St. Louis Union Station? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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