GB City Council approves coaster

GREEN BAY - The city of Green Bay is officially getting a roller coaster. Plans were approved at city council Tuesday night. Many are happy about the "Zippin Pippin" but some think the timing may not be right.

In about 15 months, you should be able to ride the Zippin Pippin at Green Bay's Beach Bay Amusement Park.

"The fact that this really isn't taking away from other services puts my mind at ease," Ned Dorff of Green Bay told the council. "This will draw in visitors from out of town and it'll be a big boost for our local economy and our local image."

But some question the timing of bringing a roller coaster to Green Bay.

"This proposal is not fiscally responsible at this time. It's not 1995. With the uncertain economy, how does local government feel that installing a roller coaster is in the best interest of this community? What will the Zippin Pippin do for the city?" said Green Bay resident Greg Meller.

"I think the timing of this is just terrible. It's not the time to be borrowing money to take risk on a roller coaster," said Alderman Guy Zima.

After talking about financing, liability and maintenance, the council approved the plans, 7 - 4.

"This is a great opportunity not only for Bay Beach but really for the greater Green Bay community," said Green Bay Mayor Jim Schmitt. "This is a ride that is no cost to the taxpayers. It's something that is going to strengthen Bay Beach. It's a family-friendly ride and I think something we're going to enjoy for many years to come here."

The city says the Zippin Pippin will be built from 100% new materials.

The city is paying about $10,000 for the name, design and history of the roller coaster. It will be paying another $2.5 - 3 million for actual construction. About $600,000 of that will likely come from private donations. The remainder will be paid for through bonds, which should be paid off in 10 years.

Schmitt says once it is paid for, the Zippin Pippin will become a revenue source for the city.

The mayor hopes to have the Zippin Pippin up and running when bay beach opens for is 2011 summer season.