Jurassic Park River Adventure is undergoing a major transformation, and the changes are already visible in aerial photos. The ride, which closed for a nearly year-long refurbishment in January, is being completely overhauled, with a focus on replacing the tracks and potentially updating the dinosaur animatronics. This extensive work is a testament to the ride's popularity and the park's commitment to maintaining its attractions.
One of the most striking changes is the replacement of the ride tracks. The new tracks, a vibrant green, are a stark contrast to the old ones that have been submerged in water for decades. This replacement is a significant undertaking, as it involves the entire track system, which is a major change for any ride, but not uncommon for coasters and other tracked attractions that require intensive maintenance.
The aerial photos also reveal the absence of some dinosaur animatronics from the early exterior section of the river, including the large stegosaurus. This suggests that the ride may be getting a Jurassic World update, which would be a significant change from the original film's styling. The use of cones and temporary construction fixtures throughout the attraction further supports this speculation, indicating that changes are coming for the majority of ride elements.
Behind the scenes, the primary showbuilding is undergoing work, with an aerial work platform ascending to a gap on the right side of the structure. This may be the entry point for workers making their way through the zenith of the ride experience, the interior portion just before the climactic drop. The queue portion is also being worked on, with a mess of construction elements and minor demolition beneath the queue’s entry canopy.
The refurbishment of Jurassic Park River Adventure is a major undertaking, and the changes are already visible in aerial photos. The replacement of the tracks and the potential update to the dinosaur animatronics are significant changes that will likely enhance the ride experience. The park's commitment to maintaining its attractions is a testament to its popularity and the dedication of its staff.
In my opinion, the Jurassic World update would be a fascinating and exciting change, bringing the ride up to date with the latest film. However, the original styling also has its charm, and the park's decision to replace the tracks and update the animatronics is a positive step forward. The refurbishment is a welcome addition to the park's offerings, and I am eager to see the final result.
