Fantastic news, Swoosh. Thanks for the update.
I may be way off base here as I'm not a park designer, but has anyone considered this:
Let's hypothetically say that an AM-esque experience is being considered for 2011 and the now vacant WB area. From a proximity standpoint, why would HFE want to sandwich this type of attraction right between Geyser Gulch and Grand Exposition? Both of these areas are already the most kid-friendly area in the park offering both thrills and adventure. As I said, I'm not a park designer, but just looking at the park map, I can't understand why they would want to throw another kid-focused attraction in an area already brimming with things just for them. From an overall park standpoint, would it not make more sense to put a larger, more adult geared thrill ride in this location to add balance to that end of the park? Seems like common sense to me. Look at most other park maps and you'll see a variety of rides throughout to encourage exploration and even distribution over the entire park.
As a parent, putting something larger in the WB area would give families even more of a reason and an opportunity to spend time on that side of the park. There would truly be something for everyone there. Proximity aside, I also don't think an AM attraction would be the right move for 2011 given this year's addition of RB was totally aimed at bringing in another family-friendly attraction.
It's been almost 10 year's since we were blessed with Wildfire, five since PK exploded onto the scene, and three years since a thrill-type ride was added (Barn Swing). It goes without saying that I'm hoping for an announcement of something big and thrilling in the next couple of weeks. And for the record, I wouldn't mind if they unveiled a new coaster that wouldn't even open until the 2012 season. It would be well worth the wait.
Can anyone verify whether or not anything has changed at all in the area around the Waterboggan since that video was shot in March?