From the 11/9/05 Cincinnati Post:

 

 

New bridge challenge: Climb it

By Bob Driehaus

Post staff reporter

 

Pedestrians stroll on it. Boaters float under it. Fireworks cascade down from it.

 

But next year, the Purple People Bridge will offer a whole new perspective to those brave enough to climb it.

 

The brainchild of Cincinnati theme parks entrepreneur Dennis Speigel, the Bridge Climb Experience is scheduled to be unveiled today as another piece of Newport's burgeoning riverfront entertainment district.

 

http://news.cincypost.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051109/NEWS01/511090347

 

I guess...

Oh, I am so there...talk about cool...

It does sound cool, I don't know if it's $60 cool

Here's another article. They are serious about this. Big plans.

 

<b>Harness up, climb the Ohio River

For $60, you can cross Purple People Bridge the hard way</b>

 

By Mike Rutledge

Enquirer staff writer

 

NEWPORT - Amusement park guru Dennis Speigel plans to take the concept of crossing bridges in the Northern Hemisphere to a higher level, starting with the Purple People Bridge between Newport and Cincinnati.

 

Instead of walking on the pedestrian bridge's deck, starting this spring, people can climb high across the top of the bridge's purple superstructure to a platform with a see-through Plexiglass floor, about 140 feet above the Ohio River.

 

E-mail [email protected]

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051110/NEWS0103/511100388

I guess this is ok as a local attraction, but not for $60.  The bridge is not really that tall nor imposing.  I readily paid for the bridge climb when I was in Sydney, Australia and it was well worth it.  It is much higher and has a lot more to look at.

 

 

Maybe they are also planning to enlarge the bridge to the size that it's shown in that backdrop in the photo with the article moonloop posted.

 

Sounds interesting, but I agree on the price.  That kind of makes it inaccessible to average people.  (Although if Cincinnati were a cruise ship port, it'd be the cheapest attraction in town!)

Here are a few more facts that appeared in that Enquirer article.  Agreed on the price.  This might be something to do once, but outside of a select few diehards I see this relying on the out-of-the-region tourist entirely.

 

CLIMB FACTS

 

Between 85,000 and 100,000 people will climb annually, amusement guru Dennis Speigel predicts. It will operate nine months a year, although it could be expanded into the winter months, he said.

 

Climb prices will start around $60. "In Sidney, it's three or four times that amount," Speigel said. "Our initial analysis showed that we could actually charge over $100."

 

Climbers will wear headsets that let them hear their guide through bones in the skull, rather than through their ears, so they can hear the surrounding sounds and the people around them.

 

Organizers envision corporate events, team-building exercises and renewed wedding vows on a platform that will have a see-through floor at the top of the bridge, about 140 feet above the Ohio River.

 

Speigel started at Coney Island in Anderson Township in 1959 and was assistant general manager at Paramount's Kings Island when it opened in 1972. He then built Kings Dominion in Richmond, Va., and has been in the amusement industry more than 40 years.

 

there will be packages with restaurants, including Jean-Robert de Cavel's Pigall's restaurant, which is creating a special meal for climbers.

Somehow this just does not seem like a good match to me.  Maybe the pricepoints for the two are in line, but I just can't really imagine really wanting to go to Jean-Robert's for dinner after climbing a bridge.  Hofbrauhaus seems like a much better match.

 

De Cavel has created a meal that in French translates to "the savory crossing of the bridges,"

Glad the name is in French and not English.

Here's another article from the 11/10/05 Cincinnati Post.  It gives a little more background on Speigel and also mentions how it may tie in to the metro as a whole:

 

 

Climb's creator is used to thinking big

By Bob Driehaus

Post staff reporter

 

Dennis Speigel's working days started on the banks of the Ohio River, taking tickets at Old Coney Island as a teenager.

 

And while the 59-year-old plans to keep dreaming up new attractions for a while, he sees his return to the riverfront with the Purple People Bridge Climb as a fitting bookend to his career.

 

 

COST OF THE ADVENTURE

For $60 a person, bridge climbers will be outfitted in a neon yellow uniform, safety harness and headset that will allow communication with the tour guide.

 

http://news.cincypost.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051110/NEWS01/511100368

 

The more I read about the neater it sounds. Most of us won't be going to Sidney anytime. And for this to be the only place in the Western Hemisphere where you can do this, pretty sweet. I think UrbanOhio should start a collection and force Grasscat to do it. ;-)

 

<b>Bridge climb a thrill ride above the river

Locals rave about Sydney Harbour version</b>

 

By Mike Rutledge

Enquirer staff writer

 

NEWPORT - When Joe Hale climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge in July, he said it was one of the most exhilarating things he'd ever done.

 

 

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051114/NEWS0103/511140355

I think UrbanOhio should start a collection and force Grasscat to do it. ;-)

 

I'll contribute, but only if someone posts pics.

I think UrbanOhio should start a collection and force Grasscat to do it. ;-)

 

It all depends on how much money you raise.  I expect to be PAID!

$60.01.  You can keep the surplus.

Pick your theme. Pirate?

 

<b>Over the Top! Theme Cl!mbs</b>

 

To provide repeat visitation incentives, the Purple People Bridge Cl!mb will offer unique theme Cl!mbs throughout the year. As part of each theme Cl!mb, participants will receive a special commemorative certificate specifically designed for the theme Cl!mb as well as additional souvenirs available for purchase only to those on the special Cl!mbs.

 

Sample Theme Cl!mbs may include:

 

<b>La Traversee des Ponts des Saveurs with Jean Robert de Cavel</b>

La Traversee des Ponts des Saveurs which translated is “The savory crossing of the Bridges”. Chef de Cavel has created a menu for this special climb package which will feature a menu built on famous cities with famous bridges from around the world; i.e., the London Bridge, the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge, Ponts des Saveurs, France, and others.

 

<b>Newport Syndicate – Mafia Mayhem</b>

It’s the 1920’s and Newport Native John Thompson invented the Thompson Machine Gun (“Tommy Gun”) that became known nationwide for its use by gangsters. The Cl!mbers are part of the Syndicate, part of the Mafia that ran the illegal bootlegging and gambling activities. Cl!mbers decked out as gangsters will cross the bridge and learn the details of the “sin city” past of the area, once known as “Little Mexico”.

 

<b>Code Name Purple – Spy Theme</b>

Your mission, should you choose to accept it…

Each Cl!mber receives a spy kit. Smoke spews as Mr. Phelps, (the Cl!mb Leader) dressed in trench coat, arrives. Music plays ominously drowning out the chatter. A tape recorder plays the assignment. When the tape destructs in a cloud of smoke, teams set off to the Cl!mb. Searching for clues along the Cl!mb regarding buildings, area history, the river and more, the Cl!mbers will relay their findings to the Cl!mb Leader. Cl!mbers will complete their mission by reaching the end of the bridge and successfully accomplishing their tasks.

 

<b>When Pigs Fly</b>

To celebrate the annual Flying Pig Marathon, Cl!mbers will have the opportunity to view the race from a unique perspective and be a part of the festivities. Suited up in pink “pig” outfits, complete with wings, the Cl!mbers will soar high above the race.

 

<b>Fins to the Left…Sharks over Water</b>

The Sharks over Water Cl!mb will provide the guest the unique opportunity to experience the Ohio River from under and over! Cl!mbers will be “suited” either in divers outfits or wearing shark fin hats throughout the Cl!mb. Fish out of the sea so to speak, Cl!mbers will hear stories of the Ohio River and its inhabitants.

 

<b>Pirate Adventure</b>

Avast, me hearties! Celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day (September 19) in style. A full day of pirate booty awaits. Dressed in pirate attire, Cl!mbers will be “walking the plank” otherwise known as the Purple People Bridge Cl!mb.

 

These and other EXCITING themes are currently being developed.  Details to be announced in 2006!

 

http://www.purplepeoplebridgeclimb.com/Theme%20Cimbs.htm

$60.01.  You can keep the surplus.

 

Well, actually, I'd like my penny contribution back. I'll mail you a 39 cent stamp with a 39 cent stamp.

"Cl!mbs"

 

Wow.  They've managed to annoy me already.

Yeah, for Christ's sake, I just want to be on top of a fucking bridge - I can wear a goddamn costume at home.

Suited up in pink “pig” outfits, complete with wings, the Cl!mbers will soar high above the race.

 

This is offensive to my people.

 

    Go to the website and note the short pedestrian bridges on the rendering. I wondered if they were going to make people climb up and down the steep parts every time. I just hope they don't clutter the bridge too much.

 

 

From the 1/9/06 Enquirer:

 

 

Bridge climber prices to rise for certain times

Newport

By Mike Rutledge

Enquirer staff writer

 

The Purple People Bridge Climb won't start until mid-May, but gift certificates already are on sale.

 

Meanwhile, prices for climbs at special times of the day - sunrise, sunset and night - soon will elevate by $20 above the $59.95 daytime-climb price, Walnut Hills-based International Theme Park Services Inc. said Friday.

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060109/NEWS0103/601090347/1059/rss13

 

<b>Bridge climb to open in May</b>

 

By Bob Driehaus

Post staff reporter

 

The installation of the Purple People Bridge Climb this spring will mean other big changes, including the likely removal of the popular cascading fireworks display from the Ohio River span for the Riverfest celebration Labor Day weekend.

 

The bridge climb is on schedule to open in May and will be the first of its kind in the United States, giving daredevils a chance to climb the trusses of the bridge on stairs and ladders.

 

 

Publication date: 01-26-2006

 

http://news.cincypost.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060126/NEWS01/601260352

LOL, the part about dressing up in costumes must be dropped!  And people say Cincy is more cultured than Columbus...  :roll:

 

I'm sorry all you Cincinnatians... :-D  I feel for ya!

Any tacky stuff that happens on the river, I blame the Northern Kentuckians. ;-)

That sucks about the fireworks.

WTF?! Now I have no interest whatsoever to climb the bridge. I don't need pigtails or a pirate costume. Don't they just have a cheap climb without all the nonsense?

That sucks about the fireworks.

 

Yeah, that was by far the coolest moment of the fireworks.

From the 3/26/06 Enquirer:

 

 

Got talent? Lead bridge climb

BY MIKE RUTLEDGE | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

NEWPORT - So you think you can make it in show business. But can your talent take you all the way to the top of the Purple People Bridge that links Newport with Cincinnati?

 

Your American Idol-type moment to become a Purple People Bridge Climb guide may be two weeks away.

 

Rest of article:

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060326/NEWS0103/603260442/1059/rss13

 

 

Blue Ohio River & Green Banks without surface lots?  I wish...

And Scripps taller than Central Trust?

 

BLASPHEMY!!!

And Carew has put on weight!

i know how inacurate renderings can be when depicting ideas...but it seems like all they are doing is adding a walkway to the top of the truss?  woohoo!

I haven't followed this story that closely, but does anyone know if you can bring cameras on your climb?

^ I would assume not.  They make you store all "loose" items in lockers and wear a special suit.  The only thing missing from this garb they show is a f$&king cape:

http://www.purplepeoplebridgeclimb.com/about.htm

 

---

Meanwhile, trouble:

 

 

Lawsuit seeks halt to bridge plan

Dispute centers on origin of idea for Purple People climbing attraction

BY SHARON COOLIDGE | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

A Cincinnati lawyer wants the work to turn the Purple People Bridge into an adventure climbing attraction stopped, and he accused developer Dennis Speigel of copying his idea for the tourist destination.

 

Thomas Jackson is demanding at least $25 million in the lawsuit, which was filed in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court in January. Details of the suit were made public Monday after negotiations failed.

 

 

E-mail [email protected]

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060328/NEWS01/603280333/1056/rss02

 

I dont forsee this getting in the way of the project.  It doesnt seem to have much backing to it, but you never know.  Greed is a powerful thing, hopefully it doesnt jeopordize this project.

The only thing missing from this garb they show is a fucking cape

 

Well I guess the dean of Cincinnati won't be able to participate then.

i hope this doesnt get in the way of the project.  i am looking forward to hiking this bridge.

Purple People Bridge Climb Seeks Guides

Reported by: 9News

Web produced by: Mark Sickmiller

 

A new Cincinnati tourist attraction is recruiting people to lead adventurous tours.

 

The Purple People Bridge Climb will send tourists up and over the Ohio River starting in May.

 

Link not available.

Wanted: Over-the-top people who can climb and chat at once

BY RYAN CLARK | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

NEWPORT - Do you rock the mic like Ryan Seacrest and scale the walls like Spider-Man?

 

Then you're just what the Purple People Bridge Climb is looking for.

 

You're a Climb Leader.

 

 

 

Speigel and Jene Galvin, a writer for Jerry Springer's radio show, will evaluate the candidates. Galvin is writing the script the Climb Leaders will use.

 

Oh, gods...I really, really wanted to like Galvin when he and his brother had that radio show on WVXU, but sweet Christ, everything was a side bar, an interruption...he couldn't just tell a frickin' story, it was, "and by the way, _______, which meant - oh, before I forget, _______"  It was painful.  He's a bright guy, lots of interesting things to say, but please God, let him have an editor...

From the 5/3/06 Enquirer:

 

 

 

A view to a thrill

Scenic route will take you over the river - WAY over

BY MIKE RUTLEDGE | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

NEWPORT - The Purple People Bridge Climb will be a dizzying combination of amusement-park thrill and a sound-enhanced Greater Cincinnati tour.

 

Rest of article:

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060503/NEWS0103/605030342/-1/rss

 

I know it's gonna be expensive and cheesy and everything, but I am so there...

Speigel a seriously fun guy

Theme park executive Dennis Speigel has a bridge climb he wants to sell you, and he's betting his reputation you'll buy

BY CHUCK MARTIN | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

At times, it's hard to keep a straight face when talking to Dennis Speigel. Like when he's wearing purple gloves while sitting in his Eden Park office, making exaggerated hand gestures as if he's a demented proctologist.

 

 

From the 5/25/06 Enquirer:

 

 

PHOTO: Working about 50 feet above the Purple People Bridge walkway, Dave Hounshell of Claryville welds rails into place.  The Enquirer/Patrick Reddy

 

Bridge climb pushed back

Weather delays work; glass panels yet to be installed

BY MIKE RUTLEDGE | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

NEWPORT - Recent rainy weather will postpone the Purple People Bridge Climb's grand opening by a week, to June 13, its managing member, Dennis Speigel, said Wednesday.

 

A grand opening featuring climbs by the mayors of Cincinnati, Covington and Newport had been planned for June 6, with an earlier "soft opening" of June 1.

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060525/NEWS0103/605250399/-1/rss

 

I just found out that my friend's friend is going to be one of the guides for the climb!!!!!!  Thats awesome because its just really cool and because I will be hoping for a discount now! :-D

While I am excited about the opportunity to climb the bridge, one thing has worried me. I have seen the TV commercials for Cl!mb (I hate the "!" in the middle of a word) and I find myself wanting to drop kick everyone in the commercial. Possibly the dumbest commercial and stupid looking uniforms. If I had to wear that, I wouldn't wear the safety equipment and pray that it was lightning out when I climbed so when my body was discovered on the bottom of the Ohio, the clothing I was wearing wasn't identifiable.

^little extreme

What the new opening date? I know Fox 19 had contest to climb the bridge and that was suppose to happen June 1. I didn't win.

Marquee to rise above bridge

Ad will promote climber attraction

BY MIKE RUTLEDGE | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

 

 

NEWPORT - The $3 million Purple People Bridge Climb won't have its first paid climbs until next week, with a grand opening set for next Tuesday. But a large purple sign advertising the attraction was to rise today on Newport on the Levee's eastern facade.

 

 

 

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060606/NEWS0103/606060349/1059/rss13

 

I am all for this project, but I highly doubt these numbers!  80,000 climbers per year?

 

Purple People climbers' impact: $25 million

Cincinnati Business Courier - 2:56 PM EDT Tuesday

 

The Purple People Bridge Climb unveiled Tuesday will attact more than folks looking for a stunning view, according to a study commissioned by the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.

 

 

http://cincinnati.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2006/06/12/daily20.html