Johnson City Carousel Knocked Out by “Major Mechanical Failure”

The historic carousel at CFJ Park in Johnson City won't operate this summer.

Broome County's oldest and largest carousel will be out of service until further notice.

Joshua Holland, Johnson City's director of public services, said there was a "major mechanical failure" during recent testing of the ride.

Holland told WNBF News that when workers attempted to start the merry-go-round as part of routine preparations ahead of the season, they heard a series of "crack, bangs and pops."

The noise indicated the century-old carousel will need significant repairs.

Holland said "we don't know the extent of the damage" at this point. He said a complete inspection of the facility is needed. That won't happen until sometime this summer at the earliest.

The bottom line for now is that the carousel won't be back in operation for months. Holland is hoping necessary repair work can be accomplished so it can be back in service in 2027.

The Allan Herschell Company carousel, which features 72 horses, was installed in 1923. It was one of six merry-go-rounds donated by Endicott Johnson Shoe Company president.

Another Broome County carousel must undergo some costly repair work. Town of Union officials hope the ride in West Endicott Park can operate at some point this year. The extent of its repair job has yet to be determined.

The Ross Park carousel on Binghamton's South Side has been undergoing major restoration work.

That carousel is expected to be reinstalled at a new location in the park and be operational sometime this spring.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @bobjoseph.bsky.social on Bluesky or @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.