Knott’s Official Outlines Impact of Planned 13-Acre Water Park

Buena Park officials and representatives of Knott’s Berry Farm presented a study describing the environmental impact of a proposed 13-acre water theme park last week at a Planning Commission meeting heavily attended by nearby homeowners.

Director of Planning Rick Warsinski gave an overview of the project, which would include a $25-million water park with a Southern California surf theme. Soak City, featuring various water slides and other attractions, would be built south of the replica Independence Hall. But before construction can begin, city officials must OK the plans.

Not for the fainthearted, a shoot-the-chutes water ride called Perilous Plunge is slated to be built inside the theme park at the site of the former dolphin show. The parachute ride, also closed, will be partially replaced by the water attraction described, as a 24-passenger log ride that reaches 121 feet then drops at a 75-degree angle as it approaches the water.

After the meeting, Jack Falfas, general manager of the theme park, invited the attendees to view diagrams and sketches of the newest additions to the entertainment corridor. He said he tried to save money by doing the environmental impact reports for both attractions at the same time and is hopeful they will open in time for the 2000 summer season.

Falfas said the meeting gave him an opportunity to explain their plans and dispel rumors that Knott’s is eyeing homes near the park as additional parking lots.

“I don’t know who started that, but there were no conversations to buy homes, nor do I intend on having any,” Falfas said.

He said his biggest concern is not the parking space but getting guests into the park quicker. He said they are reconfiguring their parking lots and are spending $2.3 million to improve access to the park from surrounding streets.

Falfas said he plans to meet with residents after the Thanksgiving holidays to discuss their concerns.

At a Dec. 15 Planning Commission meeting, there will be a public hearing to conclude the 45-day required viewing period of the draft environmental impact report. A study session with the City Council would be the next step.

Ana Cholo-Tipton can be reached at (714) 966-5890.

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Future of Knott’s Berry Farm

A decision from the city of Buena Park is expected soon regarding two new attractions to be built in time for the 2000 summer season.