It’s the question on many of our minds: what’s up with the Lightning Rod delay? When will the record-breaking wooden coaster open? Not for a while, at least. And the coaster’s prototype launch system is to blame, according to a statement released today by the coaster’s manufacturer.
UPDATE: Lightning Rod is now open! Read our Lightning Rod review here.
Photo © Dollywood and Rocky Mountain Construction.
The world record-breaking wooden coaster’s manufacturer, Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC), released the following statement regarding the Lightning Rod delay:
RMC’s Statement on the Delayed Opening of Lightning Rod
We take the highest level of pride in every attraction we create. RMC is equally disappointed that Lightning Rod will not be opening as originally planned. We have been working with the launch system subcontractor on-site to bring it up to speed and working as intended.
As is often the case with prototype attractions and especially with launched coasters, delays are an ever-present possibility. During the course of testing, we determined that the third-party launch system would not be able to perform at the level required for proper operation.
While we strive to meet all of our deadlines, we cannot and will not sacrifice safety or ride quality in the name of saving time. RMC never has nor ever will open any new attraction until it has passed our rigorous standards.
At this time, we cannot speculate as to when the attraction will open to the general public. That date is ultimately decided upon by the customer, therefore all questions regarding an opening should be directed to Dollywood.
On behalf of all the employees at Rocky Mountain Construction, I want to personally thank the management team at Dollywood, the fans of the park as well as our fans for their patience and understanding as we work to bring you Lightning Rod.
— RMC founder Fred Grubbs
The launch system issue unfortunately dampens hopes that the coaster will open soon, however I know RMC is doing everything in its power to resolve the issue in a timely manner.
Lightning Rod’s 165-foot-tall drop. Photo © Rocky Mountain Construction
The video below, part of the “Under the Hood” Lightning Rod video series, explains the prototype launch system, the first-ever linear synchronous motor (LSM) launch system used on a wooden coaster.:
https://vimeo.com/158391903
As Fred mentioned in his statement, prototypes present an inherent risk of misfiring or unforeseen delays. But I have full confidence in RMC — it will be worth the wait.
Also, Dollywood has always said the coaster would open in “spring 2016,” so adhering to that timeframe is still realistic (summer 2016 begins on June 20). Of course, many expected the coaster to open with the park’s grand season opening, as many of the park’s other new coasters have done.
What are your thoughts on Lightning Rod’s delay? Discuss in the comments section below.
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