The city of Montgomery, led by Mayor Stephen Reed, announced on Thursday their plans to introduce what they are calling the Ferris Wheel, a top request they’ve received from candidates.

Reed expressed excitement about the potential for both residents and visitors to enjoy the downtown Ferris wheel. “This pilot program reflects what we’ve been hearing from the community. We want to gauge reactions, and if there’s genuine interest, we’ll proceed with the next steps,” he explained.

As part of a three-day pilot program set to kick off during Montgomery’s HBCU Classic weekend later this year, city leaders aim to enhance entertainment options along the Riverfront.

“We’ve seen how other cities in the Southeast have utilized Ferris wheels to boost tourism and energize urban spaces,” Reed stated.

He further emphasized that if this initiative is successful and popular, a permanent Ferris wheel could help Montgomery make a unique mark. “This could be a significant opportunity for businesses looking to invest in a growing tourism economy,” he noted.

The City Council unanimously approved the initiative, with some members even considering using discretionary funds to support it.

Local reactions have varied, with some expressing enthusiasm. One Facebook user remarked, “Top Golf is great, but I’m tired of traveling to Huntsville.” Another added, “This is the perfect idea. Atlanta has a Ferris wheel, and it’s always busy.”

Contrarily, others voiced skepticism about the priority given to such entertainment projects:

• “Make sure to wear a bulletproof vest!”
• “Invest in a quality play area or a children’s museum instead…”
• “I went to Paris and all I got was a Ferris Wheel T-shirt.”
• “This looks like something for the Alabama National Fair.”
• “Enjoy a great view of crime from the top!”
• “What a waste of money.”
• “I’m just waiting for the first lawsuit over injuries!”
• “At least it will be tricky to shoot from up there.”
• “It’s sad that these aren’t just jokes.”
• “Where exactly is this Ferris wheel going to be?”
• “Is this going to conflict with the downtown teen curfew?”
• “What time does that curfew even start?”
• “Sounds like a place where locals can take aim at each other from a moving ride!”
• “No seating allowed while riding, apparently.”
• “Maybe consider a zipline instead!”
• “This feels like a circus.”
• “Not sure the Riverfront is the best location, given its flooding issues.”
• “You’ll get a bird’s eye view of brawls down on the riverboat dock.”

The city is keen to determine whether there’s enough demand for this proposal or if it will end after just the initial test.