Missing permit idles new gondola

Spokane’s new gondola has been left hanging while the city waits for an additional permit to operate the $2.5 million ride.

The gondola was closed Wednesday because the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has not granted a permit to the city for the ride, said Marion Severud, spokeswoman for Spokane’s Parks and Recreation Department.

State officials are requiring that a surveillance camera be installed on the west end of the gondola where the cars turn to make their return trip, said Virginia Painter of the state parks board.

Most gondolas require an operator at both ends of the ride. But a live camera installed at the base under the Monroe Street Bridge, with a screen in the operator’s booth at the top of the ride, will work, she said.

The city was notified of the requirements Aug. 23, Painter said.

The ride was open for less than a week before it was shut down. The gondola replaced an older ride built for Expo ‘74 and features closed cars so it can be used in the winter, Severud said.

Officials are unsure when the ride will reopen, though the city is working fast to get the camera installed, Severud said. The gondola already has cable installed to run a surveillance camera, she said.

State officials may grant the permit if the city shows it has ordered the camera equipment, she said.

The state Parks and Recreation Commission inspects and certifies all ski lifts, sky rides and gondolas twice a year once they receive a permit.