American Coaster Enthusiasts contributes toward needed upkeep of local treasure

Altoona, PA (April 19 2022) - Lakemont Park’s Skyliner roller coaster, an American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) Coaster Classic is due for a makeover. Shawna Gailey of Lakemont Park approached ACE for assistance from ACE’s Preservation Fund, donations set aside to ensure parks have the needed funds to guarantee the continued operation of historically significant coasters.

According to ACE Preservation Director David Dragun, the coaster is in desperate need of painting. Painting the coaster helps to make it waterproof, which prevents the elements from affecting the wood properties and performance, helping to ensure a better ride experience and a longer life of the wood structure.

Skyliner is the second full-size coaster operating at Lakemont Park, which is also the home of Leap The Dips, the world’s oldest operating roller coaster and one of only two remaining side friction coasters in the world. Skyliner first opened in 1960 at Roseland Park in New York before being relocated to Lakemont Park in 1987. Built by Philadelphia Toboggan Company, the coaster features a 45-foot drop, with a maximum height of 60 feet and 2,400 feet of track. The trains are painted to feature the logo and colors of the minor league baseball team, the Altoona Curve.

About ACE:

Founded in 1978, the American Coaster Enthusiasts is a nonprofit, 100% volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, appreciation and safe enjoyment of roller coasters. With over 6,000 members worldwide, ACE is the largest and longest-running enthusiast organization in the world. ACE is powered by the passion of the membership and their willingness to contribute time, personal funds and talent to advancing the mission.

Members of ACE receive exclusive park benefits, newsletters, magazines and the opportunity to attend national, local and even international events at parks. ACE hosts more than 75 national and regional coaster events across North America every year and has been prominently featured on various media seen throughout the world. Visit aceonline.org to learn more.

Photo: Michael Lockwood. View full-sized image.

Photo: Richard Koppelman. View full-sized image.

Photo: Sarah Windisch. View full-sized image.

Photo: Sarah Windisch. View full-sized image.