Helen Alpine Coaster Hits a Roadblock

HELEN, Ga. — The Alpine coaster proposed for the City of Helen wasn’t completely derailed by the Helen Planning, Design and Review Board (PDRB) this week, but it did hit a temporary roadblock.

With three members absent and another ineligible to vote, the board couldn’t reach a consensus on recommending a conditional use permit to the facility which would be located on a 10-acre tract next door to City Hall.

Area residents have expressed opposition to the attraction, citing diminished property values, the loss of the peace and tranquility they now enjoy and increased traffic on the narrow mountain road.

Alpine coasters are popular throughout the United States, but this would the first of its kind in Georgia.

Once the PDRB makes a recommendation, the city commission will make the final decision on the rezoning request.