2015 season kicks off at Coney

Everything’s coming up Coney!

The People’s Playground opened with a splash on Sunday, March 29, garnering even more attention when the 87-year-old Cyclone roller coaster got stuck at the top during its second trip of the season.

Twelve riders were on board when the ride suffered an “isolated mechanical issue,” according to a spokesperson for Luna Park, and everyone was evacuated safely. Passengers were forced to walk down the tracks with the help of amusement park employees.

While the historic wooden coaster is no stranger to getting stuck, a spokesperson said that hasn’t happened in a long time, and it certainly has never happened on Day One.

Nevertheless, the Coney Island Amusement District drew hundreds for the annual “Blessing of the Rides” at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, and other opening day festivities including a free ride on the Wonder Wheel for the first 95 people in celebration of the wheel’s 95^th anniversary.

Luna Park, on the other hand, marked its fifth year in operation.

“As we celebrate Luna Park’s fifth anniversary here in Coney Island, we are extremely proud to be a part of the positive growth this thriving community has seen over the years,” said Alberto Zamperla, president of Zamperla Group and operator of Luna Park. “Since our opening in 2010, Luna Park has attracted record crowds to the famed amusement district, created hundreds of new jobs for the community and continues to play an important role in the ongoing revitalization of Coney Island.”

Local dignitaries were among the first to indulge in Coney’s 2015 season as they lent their hands in the Annual Egg Cream Christening of the Cyclone.

“America’s Playground is back and open for business,” lauded Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, among the first and only to ride the coaster before it was closed for inspection following the mishap. “Coney Island is the ultimate seaside sensation, with fun for the young and young at heart.

“I look forward to a great amusement season with my friends at the Alliance for Coney Island, and I welcome everyone from Brooklyn and beyond to discover, or rediscover, this true American classic of a community,” he went on, joining Councilmember Mark Treyger in celebrating the change-of-season in the air.

“The opening of the iconic amusement rides along Coney Island’s famous boardwalk means one thing – spring is in the air and summer is right around the corner,” said Treyger, encouraging any and all to come on down. “After all, it’s not truly summer in New York without a trip to the Boardwalk and beach!”