'I thought why not?': Man buys Coney Island water slide

CINCINNATI (WKRC) — When news broke that Coney Island in Cincinnati would close for good in December of 2023, many in the Tri-State were devastated, but Adam Woltermann decided to take action, in an effort to preserve at least part of the historic park.

"I don't know," said Woltermann. "I like to keep things interesting and it was a cool, fun, unique piece."

The Silver Bullet water slide, built in 1945, was set for demolition, along with the rest of Sunlite Pool - that is, until Woltermann stepped in.

I went on Facebook and saw a post going out that a business was selling all the Coney slides and all the pool equipment. I looked at it and thought - why not?" said Woltermann. "I kind of grew up loving amusement parks. I ended up working at Coney Island for about five seasons. I really enjoy amusement parks. I love the history of it and just Cincinnati history in general and I just thought it would be a cool piece to own.

Wolterman threw caution to the wind, paying an undisclosed amount of money for the priceless artifact, which he had professionally removed and transported to a top-secret location, where it now sits, waiting for its final, yet-to-be-decided destination.

"I've had a lot of interest in it from different parties across Cincinnati reaching out, trying to purchase it from me, but right now, I'm not really wanting to sell it. I would love to see it in use again, but no immediate plans."

Woltermann said, that whatever he ends up doing with the Silver Bullet, he's just happy he was able to save this treasured piece of Cincinnati summertime history.

"I'll probably refurbish it," said Woltermann. "And eventually put it back up, whether public or private use, I have no idea. Definitely keep you on your toes there."