On Friday, August 9, 2019 Morey’s Piers opened “Runaway Tram,” its newest attraction.
The new family roller coaster is themed after the recognizable Wildwood Sightseer Tramcar, an icon of the Wildwood Boardwalk since it debuted nearly 70 years ago on June 11, 1949. Originally built for the 1939 New York World’s Fair, the trackless trains take passengers along the two-mile boardwalk while echoing the famed, pre-recorded phrase “watch the tramcar please.”
“The Wildwood Sightseer Tramcar is a beloved sight on the boardwalk, and it made complete sense to pay homage to this Jersey shore staple as we celebrate 50 years on the piers,” said Jack Morey, second generation partner of Morey’s Piers. “To keep our family business ever-evolving, we strive to create innovative new experiences for our guests that honor the history of Wildwood.”
At a total investment of $4 million, the Runaway Tram climbs 40 feet before coasting, twisting and turning riders along 922 feet of track at speeds nearing 30 miles per hour. The Force 280 coaster was manufactured by Zierer in Deggendorf, Germany and features one train with 10 two-person passenger cars. JRA of Cincinnati, Ohio custom designed the ride’s train and station. Surfside Pier was completely reconfigured and seven rides were moved to make space for the roller coaster.