Does proposed Branson “thrill boat” attraction pose an unreasonable safety risk?

The plans for a new “thrill boat” attraction on Lake Taneycomo at Branson Landing are well underway. This is what a similar ride looks like:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24OXZT0EOPw

Attractions like this operate in other areas of the country. Just not on waters anywhere near as congested as Lake Taneycomo. Staying well under the public’s radar, the attraction has an unmarked dock at Branson Landing downstream from its Fountains. Its anticipated opening date is sometime in May.

One can only wonder in amazement how the government agencies responsible for public safety could, in good conscience, let something like this get this far without public hearings to address safety, noise, environmental, and other concerns.  This includes the City of Branson, City of Hollister, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Water Patrol Division of the Missouri Highway Patrol, FERC, and Taney County. One would also think that the management of Branson Landing and Empire Electric would be interested in public comment on the issue.

Of even more consternation, is that Kanakuk Kamps, and the resorts  and property owners along the Lake Taneycomo shoreline are not up in arms. Safety issues aside, the operation of the new attraction will certainly add new meaning to “peace, tranquility, and relaxation on Lake Taneycomo.”

 

Leave a Comment