The iconic Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida is set to play its final encore. According to WFTV, Universal Orlando has filed a permit to remove the adrenaline-pumping attraction that has been a permanent fixture in the Orlando skyline since 2009.
Opening the park's playbook for future developments, recent permits have given a peek into Universal's ambition, revealing plans to replace the roller coaster with something new and likely larger as the documents detailed a project spanning 6.27 acres. Interestingly, the proposal includes two expansive buildings meant to reimagine the New York section of the park, merging into spaces currently used by the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon attraction, as detailed by FOX 35 Orlando.
While Universal Orlando has yet to ride the public speculation to a full announcement regarding closure dates for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, a Notice of Commencement has pointed fans towards Intamin—the coaster manufacturer dreaming up the future of Universal's thrill experiences—as a principal contractor for the work set to take place in the iconic Florida park.
Awaiting the green light, the project detailed in the December 23 permits is set for review with the powers that be at the South Florida Water Management District. All eyes are on the January 22, 2025, deadline, when decisions are expected to drop and potentially shake things up for Universal Studios Florida. Intamin's current slate includes the How to Train Your Dragon-themed coaster at Epic Universe and the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Hollywood, showing the company's continued collaboration with Universal for big-ticket attractions.
