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Despite calls for the destruction of the Giant Dipper a group of local citizens who loved the coaster created the Save the Coaster Committee.  Their goal wasn't to just save the historic structure but to bring the Giant Dipper back to life.



The Save the Coaster Committee got the ride declared a National Register of Historic Places in 1978 which helped protect the structure from demolition.



The committee continued to raise funds for the Giant Dipper's rebirth through the 1980's and got it declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987 further protecting it.



In 1987 all that remained of the old Belmont Park was the Giant Dipper and The Wave indoor pool.  At that time a developer wanted to revitalize Belmont Park into a retail and entertainment district. 



With the Giant Dipper sitting dormant in the middle of the development it made sense for the developer to assist in bringing it back to life.  Where they turned to for help lie to the north in Santa Cruz.  The owners of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk; the home of California's other and older Giant Dipper, were brought into look at partnering up to restore the ride and operate rides for the retail and entertainment district.



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Copyright 1999 - 2025

Paul B. Drabek