Bleak Forecast for Carousel Season in the Binghamton Area

For the first time in several decades, there may be no summertime rides on the merry-go-rounds in the Carousel Capital of the World.

It appears the six carousels in Broome County could be silent because of concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Local officials aren't optimistic about the traditional carousel season because of the precautions that would be needed to provide proper protection for riders and employees.

One of the carousels is in Johnson City's CFJ Park. Village Mayor Greg Deemie Thursday said a coordinated plan would need to be developed before carousels could go into operation.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Deemie noted there could be big challenges because the historic carousels could be damaged if some cleaning solutions are used. He also expressed concern about what steps could be implemented to deal with health issues.

The town of Union has two carousels, one at Highland Park in Endwell and the other at West Endicott Park. Town Supervisor Rick Materese echoed some of the concerns expressed by Deemie.

Both Materese and Deemie raised concerns about what could happen if all carousel users could be at risk of infection if one person sneezed during a ride.

Endicott and Binghamton officials could not be reached to comment on the possibility of carousel operations this summer.

The carousel at Binghamton's Ross Park Zoo won't operate this season because of a restoration project.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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