Universal Studios Hollywood’s highly anticipated Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift has yet to officially open, but the attraction is already at the centre of growing controversy.
Residents living near the park say the screams from test riders can be heard throughout the day, with some now threatening legal action unless the noise problem is addressed.
“Every 30 to 40 Seconds You Hear Screaming”
The complaints are not about the coaster itself, but about its passengers.
During recent testing with riders on board, neighbours in the nearby Toluca Lake community reported hearing loud screams every 30 to 40 seconds as trains raced around the track. Several residents say the noise has become disruptive enough to affect their daily lives, particularly when spending time outdoors.
Some homeowners have warned they are prepared to take legal action if Universal cannot reduce the sound once the attraction opens to the public.
Universal Insists Opening Plans Have Not Changed
Rumours quickly spread online suggesting the coaster’s opening had been delayed because of the complaints.
Universal Studios Hollywood has denied those reports and says Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift remains on schedule to open later this summer. While no official opening date has been announced yet, the company maintains that the project is progressing as planned.
Years of Planning to Reduce Noise
Noise has been a consideration throughout the development of the attraction.
During the design phase, Universal carried out extensive acoustic studies and incorporated several mitigation measures into the project. These include transparent sound barriers, sound shields and sections of track filled with pea gravel to help reduce vibrations.
The innovative rotating ride vehicles were also designed so that riders can be positioned in ways that help direct screams away from neighbouring homes. According to the park, the coaster itself produces relatively little mechanical noise, with rider screams expected to be the most noticeable sound.
Debate Continues Online
The controversy has sparked lively discussion among theme park fans and local residents alike.
Some sympathise with homeowners who fear the repeated screams could become a daily nuisance once the attraction opens. Others argue that living next to one of the world’s most famous film studios and theme parks inevitably comes with a certain level of noise, and that nearby traffic and helicopter activity are often far louder.
One of Universal Hollywood’s Biggest Investments
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will become Universal Studios Hollywood’s first major outdoor roller coaster and one of the park’s most significant attractions in decades. Manufactured by Intamin, the coaster features innovative 360-degree rotating ride vehicles designed to simulate high-speed drifting. Riders will reach speeds of up to 116 km/h (72 mph) as they travel more than 1,250 metres (4,100 feet) across the hillside connecting the park’s Upper and Lower Lots.
With anticipation continuing to build ahead of its opening, Universal now faces the challenge of delivering its groundbreaking new coaster while addressing the concerns of the surrounding community.
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