Oklahoma River Cruiser Undergoes Sea Trials in New York
(October 5, 2007) - This Wednesday, the NEW Oklahoma River Cruiser, The Devon Discovery, will endure a series of tests in Albany, New York. Scarano Boats of New York recently completed the construction of the 65-foot long, 49-passenger tour boat, the first of three cruisers to be delivered over the next 18 months. The Devon Discovery is scheduled to arrive in Oklahoma City later this month.
Michael Lomax, General Manager for Hornblower Marine Services and the Oklahoma River Cruises operation stated, “Sea trials are a typical pre-delivery qualifying process for the vessel and with the Devon Discovery the exercise will put the boat through its paces with Oklahoma City representatives onboard to observe. Included will be a general testing of all safety systems, mechanical elements and maneuverability functions.”
The Oklahoma River Cruisers will travel a seven mile stretch of the Oklahoma River, initially serving two locations during the first phase of development – Meridian Landing, located near SW 15th & Meridian and Bricktown at Regatta Park.
Proposed stops to add during the second phase include Stockyards City, Oklahoma State Fairgrounds and Dell.
Finally, in the third phase, service should extend to the American Indian Cultural Center and include stops at the Farmers Public Market, Wheeler Park, Wiley Post Park, Riverfest Place and Walnut Grove
The Oklahoma River Cruisers will link directly with Oklahoma Spirit Trolley lines, making the cruisers an integral part of the regional transit system and a new way for non-riders to be introduced to transit.
The Oklahoma River Cruisers are expected to stimulate continued revitalization along the riverfront while supporting the growing tourism in the area. In addition, the attractive and comfortable vessels will serve to connect commerce and communities with the benefit of improving transportation between areas with major activity and reduce demand for visitor parking in certain areas.
METRO Transit is a division of COTPA, a public trust responsible for providing downtown parking alternatives as well as safe, efficient, and convenient transportation to the citizens of the Greater Oklahoma City Metropolitan area. Call 235-RIDE for more information, or visit online at www.gometro.org.
