Concern and disbelief have set in among the patrons of Kennywood Park after a viral photo showing part of the Racer roller coaster seemingly propped up by concrete blocks made rounds on social media. The image, which exhibits the century-old wooden coaster's alleged feebleness, has raised questions regarding the integrity of the beloved amusement ride. According to CBS News, attendees expressed their apprehension, with visitor Dorian Pirl declaring, "People's safety is at risk, and I'm definitely going to be letting my family members know not to ride the Racer."
Despite the unsettling visual implication, Kennywood officials, and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Division of Amusement Rides and Attractions, have addressed the concerns. Kennywood's Communications Manager, Tasha Pokrzywa, reassured in a statement as reported by WTAE that "The safety of our attractions is our top priority." Moreover, a park official stated that the concrete blocks had been replaced, and the ride's structure was never at any point compromised.
Kennywood's officials have maintained that the attraction undergoes daily inspections, as mandated by state requirements. The Racer was inspected on July 20th, according to its registration, and has been in operation since then. "Are you going to let your kids ride today?" a reporter from CBS News inquired of one park-goer, who responded in caution, "The Racer, we'll think about that another day. Let it get fixed."
The response from the Division of Amusement Rides and Attractions, while initially slow, eventually recognized the incident as "sloppy," but emphasized that public safety was never in danger.
