Facebook posts advertising the sale of rides at Lakemont Park have called to question the park’s future. 

The posts, however, aren’t showing anything new but have caused quite a stir as the park fielded many calls this morning. WTAJ spoke with Ralph Albarano who is the managing partner of the park. 
He says the rides seen on Facebook are the same ones they were planning to sell when they announced renovations back in March.

The park remained closed for the summer of 2017 for renovations. With the park opening for holiday lights this weekend, people are wondering if they will be back next summer. Albarano says the park isn’t going anywhere.

He explained, “We are not running away from the park. We have an obligation to the county of Blair with our lease to have a park there. We want to make it worthwhile to people but also worthwhile to ourselves.”

The planned renovations include selling most of the rides. Albarano says he wants to steer away from what he calls “iron-rides.” But some will stay, such as paddle boats, the roller coasters and the water park will remain.

Albarano said, “It is a business so it has to be somewhat profitable but I certainly want it to be an enjoyable experience for the people of Blair County.”

Albarano says he sees the park as a local landmark and tradition. With Blair County being the longtime home of his family, he’s wrestling with keeping the park a fun place for families while keeping it affordable and profitable. 

He said, “I’ve lived here for a very long period of time. I’d like to do something that the community sees worthwhile. But, it takes time, it takes effort, and it takes money. So that’s how were going to approach it.”

There is no time table at this point for when the park will reopen its gates. Albarano says that best for the community and for the park to do so as soon as possible.