This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Sorry Venice Beach: City Halts Plan to Install 175-foot Ferris Wheel at Windward Plaza
Great City Attractions
A controversial plan to erect a 175-foot Ferris wheel on Venice Beach has been scrapped, reports Venice Patch, and it was the City of L.A. that pulled the plug.Reportedly, Councilman Bill Rosendall called up Venice Neighborhood Council President Linda Lucks this week to let her know "that the application for the project was being pulled."
Initial plans were that the giant wheel would be installed on Windward Plaza - which is dedicated city park land - near the skatepark as early as this summer. The attraction would be operated by UK-based Great City Attractions and would have been done at no cost to the city. Rides would have cost $10-$15.
While some Venice residents thought the Ferris wheel would give the area a sense of revisiting its own history as an amusement park destination, many in the community opposed the plan, which did not seem to address the issue of extra foot and vehicle traffic at the site.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
