An early-stage concept being discussed by Center in the Square could eventually introduce a Ferris wheel overlooking downtown Roanoke, adding a new visual feature above the Market Square area.
The idea involves placing an observation wheel — estimated at roughly 130 feet tall — either atop the Center in the Square building or on a nearby city-owned parking structure along Campbell Avenue. At this stage, the proposal remains conceptual, with no confirmed site, design plans, or construction schedule.
Before any decisions are made, organizers are seeking funding for a feasibility study expected to cost about $250,000. The purpose of the study would be to evaluate whether existing structures could safely support a wheel of that size, what installation challenges might exist, and whether the attraction could deliver measurable economic or tourism benefits for the downtown area.
City officials have acknowledged receiving information about the concept but have not indicated whether public property, such as a municipal parking deck, would be available for use. The project has been referenced in preliminary materials as the “Sky Garden,” though details remain fluid.
Center in the Square has been a fixture in downtown Roanoke for decades, housing museums, performance venues, and shared community spaces that draw visitors from across the region. The organization has identified its rooftop areas — currently used for dining and outdoor activities — as spaces that could be reimagined in the future.
Two possible locations are being reviewed: the seven-story Center in the Square building and the adjacent five-story Market Square parking deck. Either option would require in-depth engineering analysis to assess structural integrity, safety requirements, and construction feasibility.
Ferris wheels have been part of public entertainment for more than a century, first gaining prominence at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago. While Roanoke has not had a permanent downtown wheel, nearby Salem once featured one at Lakeside Amusement Park before the park closed. In modern times, large observation wheels have become signature attractions in major cities worldwide.
The version being discussed for Roanoke would be modest by global standards but large enough to provide elevated views of the city and surrounding landscape. Early concepts suggest enclosed passenger cabins and a structure weighing several hundred thousand pounds.
Local officials have generally indicated openness to creative ideas that could boost interest in downtown, though no formal endorsements or funding commitments have been made. Any public investment would need to move through established approval channels at the city or state level.
For now, the Ferris wheel remains an idea under consideration rather than a confirmed project. Its future will depend on feasibility findings, funding outcomes, and broader public and governmental support.