Full Breakdown
Niagara Parks Shifts Focus to 3.8-km Elevated Tram After Observation Wheel Cancelled
By Drooid · · How we work
Tram Proposal Remains After Wheel Cancelled
The Niagara Parks Commission announced that it has withdrawn the request for private-sector proposals to build an observation wheel in Queen Victoria Park. The decision follows strong public opposition to a wheel that would have loomed over the Horseshoe and American Falls. However, the commission confirmed that the raised, 3.8-kilometre electric tram—referred to as the Niagara River Line—continues to be under consideration. The tram would run one-way through the park, linking major attractions such as Journey Behind the Falls, the Niagara City Cruises, and WildPlay’s zipline.
Background and Destination Niagara Plan
The tram concept appears in the province’s Destination Niagara plan, unveiled in December. The plan aims to double the roughly 13 million annual visitors to Niagara Falls and increase the region’s tourism economy, which the plan values at $3 billion and says supports about 40,000 jobs. The Ontario government projects the tram could generate $490 million in gross domestic product and create 3,800 jobs within its first eight years.
Public Opposition and Support
Local residents have voiced mixed reactions. Wayne Gates, Niagara Falls MPP, organized a town-hall meeting that drew 1,200 participants and warned that “Residents have a lot of questions” about how much green space might be transferred to a private operator. Judy Doerr, a Niagara Falls resident, called the park “a priceless gift.” Conversely, Deryk Wilton argued the tram could ease Parkway congestion, offer “breathtaking” views, and be more environmentally friendly than buses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Its suspended capsules would give visitors unmatched views of Niagara Falls while connecting them to major attractions across the park,” — Niagara Parks
- “The falls and [Queen Victoria] Park are a priceless gift,” — Judy Doerr, of Niagara Falls
- “Residents have a lot of questions," Gates told CBC News.” — Wayne Gates