The Skywheel is ready to be shipped to Newport.

The 235-ft. observation wheel will be placed on the riverfront near Newport on the Levee and is scheduled to open in March.

Ground will break next month.

The wheel has already been manufactured and tested in the Netherlands and is currently stored in shipping creates.

After the pier is constructed, the wheel will open about two months later.

The SkyWheel will stand more than twenty stories high with thirty fully-enclosed gondolas with glass windows and doors to view the river, Northern Kentucky, and the Cincinnati skyline. The gondolas are climate-controlled and hold up to six riders for three to four revolutions.

“The SkyWheel is unique in its ability to bring together groups and families of different backgrounds, ages, and interests to share a memorable experience,” said Matt Stack, president of SkyWheel Attractions.

Skywheel will be accessible to all abilities.

The company will face competition from the Cincinnati side of the river where SkyStar has proven so popular as a temporary installation, that officials have announced that it will become permanent. A larger wheel is expected to arrive in Cincinnati at some point.

SkyWheel operates similar attractions in Myrtle Beach, Niagara Falls, and Panama City Beach.

“Like with the first SkyWheel on the coast of Myrtle Beach, we chose Newport because of its unparalleled views of the Ohio River and Cincinnati’s skyline,” Stack said.

-Staff report