Tampa might get a Ferris wheel. Not everyone's getting on board
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A rendering of the Tampa WOW, courtesy of Catalyst Communications Group.
Tampa is barreling toward a Ferris wheel fight.
Why it matters: This month, City Council members will decide whether to greenlight a 250-foot observation wheel in Channelside, which some residents fear could upend Tampa's skyline and spirit.
Catch up quick: Local developer Tony Miller last month unveiled plans for a Ferris wheel — yes, like Orlando's — called "Tampa's Wheel Over Water," or "Tampa WOW."
- The proposed site for the ride is on land north of the Florida Aquarium in Channelside, and it would stand 250 feet tall. If built, the privately funded attraction would share annual profits with the city.
Friction point: The idea was panned on social media. "Nothing screams tourist like that," said one Instagram user. "Do not act like International Drive."
- "Y'all are sooooo bored," wrote another. "Why not just add a city rollercoaster that takes you around I-4 and I-75?"
- "Hey look an interstate," a third commented, mocking the proposed site's views. "Hey look a parking garage! Hey look the top of a cruise ship smoke stack! Hey look that guy almost caused an accident in the parking lot!"
Zoom in: At a City Council meeting Thursday, residents who spoke in person appeared more open to the idea and even suggested ways to address some of their concerns.
- Mark Siebenaller said he worried the proposed observation wheel could distract drivers, and believes speed bumps would minimize the risk of accidents.
- Another resident, Stephanie Poyner, warned about building a Ferris wheel in an area prone to hurricanes and shared a clip from the film "1941," depicting one breaking loose and rolling into the ocean.
Yes, but: Miller addressed those concerns at Thursday's meeting, explaining that the observation wheel is designed to withstand hurricanes and that a plan is in place to remove pieces should a storm become too severe.
- "We feel very confident in the hurricane rating of this," he added.
- Miller said the "wheel is whisper quiet" and that the "noise of this type of attraction isn't something that's going to impede upon local residents."
What's next: The next public hearing to discuss the development agreement is scheduled for Oct. 23 at 10:30am.
- If the Tampa City Council gives its approval, the attraction is expected to open in the fall of 2026.