Growing up in Altoona in the ’90s, Lakemont Park was a blast. Fun rides, great food, an arcade and a waterpark. What more could a boy want?

Now, at 32, living in Hollidaysburg with my wife and our five children, I’m sad that I can’t share that experience with our kids.

Why? Years ago, former Blair County commissioners signed a lease with Lakemont Partnership until 2066, allegedly. Anyone familiar with leasing knows agreements like this are foolish. You can’t predict how tenants will end up. Now, in 2025, Lakemont Park’s rides have been closed for two years, a sad shell of its former self.

I spoke with a rep from Lakemont Park, who mentioned no plans exist to reopen the Leap-the-Dips or Skyliner anytime soon. I didn’t ask about the waterpark, but given their track record, it’ll likely stay closed too.

There’s talk of maybe reopening the go-kart track with help from a local business, but with Lakemont Partnership, who knows?

By 2066, I’ll be 74. I don’t think my back or hips could take it if the rides are still around then. How do you feel, waiting decades for Lakemont Park to maybe make a comeback?

To Lakemont Partnership: please, for Blair County’s sake, get your act together. If you can’t restore the park beyond minor activities, work with commissioners to exit your lease. Let someone else revive Lakemont Park.

It’s time Blair County reclaimed its treasure.

Sean Woleslagle

Hollidaysburg