Atlantic City Ferris Wheel Gains Approval

Atlantic City might briefly lay claim to the nation's largest Ferris wheel.

The planning board has approved a proposal to allow Steel Pier Associates to spend more than $12 million to expand the Boardwalk and install a 200-foot observation wheel.

The Press of Atlantic City reports Steel Pier president Anthony Catanoso says it would be the tallest in the country if it's finished before the 550-foot High Roller wheel in Las Vegas.

The Texas Star wheel in Dallas at 212 feet claims to be the tallest observation wheel in North America. Catanoso says Atlantic City's wheel could be 220 feet with the height of the pier included.

The City Council must approve the plan and the company would need permits from the state Environmental Protection Department to start construction.