Sound Shield Panels Added to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Hollywood
Sound Shield Panels Added to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Hollywood
The Universal Studios Hollywood version of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift has some sound shielding panels now in place on white frames. Crews are also working on a cover for the stairs leading from the Upper Lot to the Lower Lot.
Sound Concerns Addressed
Since our last report, several more transparent panels have been installed on the white frames around the curves of the coaster track. These panels, with a slight green tint, will help reduce the sounds of both the coaster and the guests' screams. Sound levels were a major concern for neighboring property owners before construction even began, prompting Universal to conduct sound tests. They stated the coaster would have sound reduction technology.
Additional Benefits of Panels
In addition to reducing sound, the panels will also help catch or at least slow any wayward objects that could fly from guest pockets. The stairs next to the escalators, which did not previously have a canopy, will be getting some shade soon. White frames are in place on the stairs where they cross under the coaster, and these frames will presumably be filled with matching green-tinted glass.
Progress on the Coaster
The coaster trains are currently testing, and they are still wrapped in dazzle camouflage that conceals the actual car designs. Each ride vehicle resembles a car from the Fast and Furious franchise, but, other than the lead Dodge Charger, these haven't been officially revealed. However, their designs were visible in a concept video.
Gift Shop Updates
The Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift gift shop, 101 Exchange Store, opened in September. It finally got Fast and Furious merchandise a few months later and now has a new sign. The light-up red and white sign is on the side of the brick building. It's much bigger and brighter than the text above the doors, maybe to help indicate to guests that the store is open.
Future Expansion
Three weeks ago, Universal Studios Hollywood teased a "big reveal" about the coaster coming soon, but has yet to announce anything new. Universal announced last month that Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is also coming to Universal Studios Florida, where it's already under construction and replacing Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Fast & Furious: Supercharged will close, just like it did at Universal Studios Hollywood.
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