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Steel Pier’s Observation Wheel On Its Way to AC

Steel Pier President Visits Italy for Second Inspection

Steel Pier’s Anthony Catanoso traveled to Italy this week to conduct the second of three inspections of New Jersey’s first Observation Wheel. Traveling with Mr. Catanoso is Steel Pier Operations Manager, James Catanoso.

An artists rendition of the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, N.J.
An artists rendition of the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, N.J.

The pair traveled to Technical Park’s facility in Melara, Italy, outside of Venice, where six factories are contributing elements that will comprise the final wheel. The 200-foot Observation Wheel, one of the tallest in the country, will be erected adjacent to Steel Pier.

The Catanoso’s inspected the climate controlled gondolas that will make up the Observation Wheel. “The manufacturer, Technical Park, continues to impress us with its workmanship and the detail that is going into the fabricating of this iconic attraction,” said Anthony Catanoso. “This will be a game changer for Atlantic City and our region.”

The first third of the ride is currently being shipped and the second third is scheduled to be shipped next week. The entire wheel will be in the United States by Labor Day. Later this summer construction will begin on the Pier’s expansion that will hold the wheel and other attractions.

The wheel is estimated to draw 50,000 riders a month to enjoy the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Atlantic City skyline from climate-controlled gondolas. Catanoso says they will make one final trip to Italy later this summer for the last inspection.

The wheel is being built with cooperation and assistance from the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), as well as the City of Atlantic City, and will cost $14 million.