I hope everyone is enjoying the contest so far.
After an impromptu meeting this evening, we want to clarify the goal of this contest. The vision that we at Lakewood Point have for our next coaster is to see exactly what can be done with what we have. We understand that following the old ride's profile is a challenge, but we also know that there is plenty of potential for many creative layouts using the old profile of Thunder Strike. Additionally, as a smaller park, we want to make this project as cost effective as possible.
This being said, we will allow for proposals to use the old layout in any way they wish. Feel free to progress through the layout in a different order than the original or jump between parallel tracks. However, due to cost restrictions and land use permits, layout deviations are not allowed. This includes jumping between portions of the layout that do not have the old ride's footers or structure under them for support. It also includes making any deviations from the old layout that would require new footers to be poured. While there are solutions to this problem, the cost would be too great for the designated project budget. This means that steel truss supports are also not allowed. We urge you to use as much of the old structure as possible. If it is absolutely necessary to do so, we have limited permission to add new footers for lateral bracing only.
The judging process for proposals will take these points into account. The more layout you use in your design, the more points it will receive. Conversely, if you choose to cut off portions of the old layout or make deviations, your score will likely be reduced.
As a reminder, our final planning session is scheduled to take place this Saturday, July 27th. Please be sure to check back here as there will be an additional requirement added to the request. Word around the office is that the planning committee is very keen on the idea of airtime.
Good luck!