A plan is in the works to add a new outdoor amusement amenity within the Island’s “entertainment district.”

Soon visitors will be able to take a ride on a six-story tall, lighted ferris wheel that will be placed within a closed portion of West Ling Street.

“It will be right next to or just north of what’s called Gravity Park on Ling Street in front of Louie’s Backyard,” South Padre Island Mayor Dennis Stahl explained in a phone interview. “So, it will give people another exciting option to entertain themselves on South Padre Island.”

City officials have been working on the project for about four months.

A handful of Island business owners expressed their opinions of the proposed Ferris Wheel project during several city council meetings held this past week.

Franchise partner with Perspective Hospitality Raj Patel expressed his support for the project.

“I’ve been here since 1999 and I’ve seen the Island grow as more attractions come into the Island,” he said. “This is another attraction that I would like to see because it would be great for the Island, our hotels and other businesses as well.”

Casa Mariposa Venue and Villas owner Sherrie Gomez said the ferris wheel would be a “great asset that will bring more families to the Island.”

Dairy Queen franchise owner Robert Lozano also spoke in favor of the Island’s idea.

“I think this would be good for the area and the city, and will attract more people,” he said. “And hopefully, I’ll sell an extra ice cream cone, no doubt.”

According to Stahl, the internal goal is to have the ferris wheel up in March.

By ALANA HERNANDEZ Staff Writer