New Ferris Wheel Arrives at Navy Pier; Pier Closed January 19-20, 2016

WHAT: Navy Pier will be closed to the public on January 19^th and 20^th for a major step in the construction and assembly of its new Ferris wheel. Delivered via boat, train and truck from Europe, the key structural elements of the wheel's frame will be put in place.

The countdown to Navy Pier's Centennial Celebration continues as the new Ferris wheel – a centerpiece of the Pier's dramatic redevelopment – begins significant construction this week. To be open year-round, the new Ferris wheel will offer larger capacity; longer and more comfortable rides; and even more amazing views of the city as it will be 50 feet taller than its predecessor.

WHEN/KEY COVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES:

10 A.M., Tuesday, January 19 will be the most significant day for construction visuals—late morning through afternoon and possibly into Wednesday, January 20:

• Four massive construction cranes lifting legs of Ferris wheel
• Six (120' in length and 36,376 lbs. each) legs of Ferris wheel being assembled
• Center hub (104' above deck and more than 36,000 lbs.) of Ferris wheel lifted and secured to six legs

January 19, 12-6 p.m.

• Interview opportunities with Navy Pier Chief Operating Officer Brian Murphy
• B-roll and photography will be made available for evening and late news shows

IMPORTANT NOTE: To access the construction area, all persons will be required to provide identification, sign a waiver and wear protective construction zone equipment. Please contact Payal Patel at ppatel@navypier.com for media credentials.

WHERE: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, Ill. 60611

BACKGROUND: Navy Pier is beginning installation of a new 196-foot Ferris wheel that will be ready for operation in time for the 2016 Centennial Celebration this summer. The previous wheel, which was installed in 1995, conducted more than 16.9 million rides and created countless memories for Pier guests and visitors throughout its 20-year history. The new wheel is anticipated to shatter that record as it features a larger capacity (180 more passengers per ride) and will operate year-round – all while providing a more comfortable ride thanks to more luxurious, temperature-controlled gondolas.

The new Ferris wheel is a key element of the Pier's Centennial Vision—a reimagining of Navy Pier to mark its 100^th anniversary this year. Construction of the wheel is just the beginning of major news coming from the Midwest's number one leisure destination.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150916/267250LOGO

/PRNewswire/ -- Jan. 18, 2016/

SOURCE Navy Pier