Binghamton's Ross Park Carousel Won't Operate This Summer

The century-old carousel at Binghamton's Ross Park Zoo won't be operating this year as the city awaits final state approval on plans to restore its horses and chariots.

The merry-go-round was donated by George F. Johnson. It was installed in 1920.

Mayor Richard David told WNBF News he doesn't know when the restoration work might get underway.

David said state agencies still must sign off on the details of the project. The city was awarded a $500,000 state grant six years ago for the restoration.

A horse on the Ross Park Zoo carousel on May 21, 2020. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

The carousel components will be moved from Ross Park to an out-of-town restoration site.

When the work is completed, the carousel will be installed about 250 feet from its current location.

Broome County has been known as the "Carousel Capital of the World." Last year, all six merry-go-rounds in the Binghamton area were silent during the Covid-19 pandemic. Five of the carousels are expected to operate this year.

A view of the Ross Park Zoo carousel when it was in operation. (Photo: Bob Joseph/ WNBF News)