Six Flags America Announces Thomas Town for 2010

Six Flags America, Bowie, MD, has announced plans to open North America's largest Thomas Town attraction for the theme park's 2010 season.

The new area, representing the park's largest expansion in more than a decade, will feature eight rides and attractions, along with a new retail store.

Concept art of the new area

The three and a half acre section of the park will actually be located in between the Joker's Jinx and Superman roller coasters, not near the former home of Two Face as many expected. The site of Thomas Town was previously undeveloped.

Detailed site plan for the expansion

The star attraction, of course, will be the train ride aboard Thomas the Tank Engine. Also featured in the new area are:

• Harold The Helicopter - Kids can control how high they can fly through the air above Thomas Town in their very own helicopter.

• Cranky the Crane Tower Ride - Guests will enjoy high-flying family thrills on this unique, 30-foot drop tower on Cranky the Crane.

• Bertie the Bus Ride - Bertie the Bus takes riders on an unforgettable trip as they go round and round and high into the sky.

• Diesel Derby - Guests join the parade of train cars moving through Thomas Town.

• Sodor Carnival Ferris Wheel - Guests of every age will experience Carnival Fun on the Island of Sodor while riding this classic Ferris wheel.

• Thomas Town Play Structure - This multi-level play area is themed with Thomas & Friends character images and features slides, climbing areas, and interactive fun!

• Thomas Town Pop Jet Fountain - Children and children-at-heart can take a break and cool off in this delightful pop-jet water feature.

Compare the site plan to see where Thomas Town will be located

Guests will also be able to meet with Sir Topham Hat, who will appear throughout the day to pose for photos. The new retail location will be named Knapford Station Shop, and will be located inside the train station that Thomas will leave from.

Six Flags America will open for the 2010 season on March 27, and the new Thomas Town area is slated to open later that summer.

More art of the Cranky The Crane Tower ride