Grumpy
10-14-2008, 06:29 AM
posted by Dewayne Bevil on Oct 10, 2008 3:03:39 PM
I had a brief inside-the-construction-fence experience today at the site of Manta, the SeaWorld Orlando roller coaster set to be ready in summer of 2009. Everything is on schedule, SeaWorld officials told me, and it IS exciting to see vertical construction on the project. You can also see a lot from the park's Sky Tower, if you are so inclined.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02829.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02829.jpg)
This area represents the "loading station" area of Manta, which eventually will dominate the center of the theme park. The structure is two-toned: kind of a Carolina Blue and a purplish royal blue.
More shots after the jump.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02831.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02831.jpg)
This is the curve heading back into the station (which is out of frame to the right).
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02832.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02832.jpg)
This is same area, only lower. There was a worker below and center with sparks flying.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02834.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02834.jpg)
Now, toward the far right are blue contruction walls in front of the Whale & Dolphin Stadium. Behind them will be giant support poles that will hold up the highest rails of Manta. That part of the track will fly over theme park guests. The highest part is expected to be set in place later this month.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02833.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02833.jpg)
Looking straight through is another structure that's purpose was unclear to my hosts, but may or may not involve the aquarium aspects of the ride. Stay tuned.
I had a brief inside-the-construction-fence experience today at the site of Manta, the SeaWorld Orlando roller coaster set to be ready in summer of 2009. Everything is on schedule, SeaWorld officials told me, and it IS exciting to see vertical construction on the project. You can also see a lot from the park's Sky Tower, if you are so inclined.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02829.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02829.jpg)
This area represents the "loading station" area of Manta, which eventually will dominate the center of the theme park. The structure is two-toned: kind of a Carolina Blue and a purplish royal blue.
More shots after the jump.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02831.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02831.jpg)
This is the curve heading back into the station (which is out of frame to the right).
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02832.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02832.jpg)
This is same area, only lower. There was a worker below and center with sparks flying.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02834.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02834.jpg)
Now, toward the far right are blue contruction walls in front of the Whale & Dolphin Stadium. Behind them will be giant support poles that will hold up the highest rails of Manta. That part of the track will fly over theme park guests. The highest part is expected to be set in place later this month.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/images/2008/10/10/dsc02833.jpg (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/10/dsc02833.jpg)
Looking straight through is another structure that's purpose was unclear to my hosts, but may or may not involve the aquarium aspects of the ride. Stay tuned.