New Ferris Wheel Planned for Mayo Island

Convention and Visitors Bureau spokesperson Jane Halloway announced today the purchase of the Melbourne Wheel, a well known Melbourne tourist attraction, and its imminent relocation to Mayo Island in the center of the James River. Halloway elaborated the economic benefits of adding a glorified amusement park ride to a high profile location near downtown and the James River Park System. "Kayakers are going to see this miles up stream and what better what to end a day of adventure sports than to take a thrilling ride of a Ferris wheel. This is going to put Richmond on the map the way the London Eye did for England.", Halloway said. "When people think of Richmond, they are going to think of ferris wheels."

Price tag for the giant Ferris wheel was a mere $10 million. This does not include transportation, set up and estimated $50 million repair charges. "Still", Halloway maintains, "We got a heck of a deal." Operating charges are expected to be offset by ticket prices that will range from $5 to $25. A full service amusement park is envisioned a part of a planned development on the island.