Grand opening for Springleton Fun Park this weekend
A love story that began between two teens on a roller skating rink blossomed two years ago into ownership of the facility under a new name.
The Locomo was once Suncoast Skating, owned by the Sessa family in the early 2000s. And their daughter, Katie, grew up in the family business.
Robert Dill and his 10-year old son, Christian, enjoyed several laps around the track on Saturday as Springleton opened for business. Their first time at the park, Robert said Springleton exceeded his expectations. Christian was thrilled with his performance on the go-cart, beating his dad in every race. KIM DAME
She met Chris Milano when the two were teens, working in the facility. Sessa and Milano were married just after Milano took over the facility in 2012.
An entrepreneur in his early 30s, Milano had big dreams to broaden his “fun scope” to appeal to even more people who craved another safe outlet.
This weekend, those dreams will be realized as Milano holds a grand opening celebration for Springleton Fun Park, 9227 Countyline Road in Spring Hill, telephone (352) 340-7723
Springleton began as an extension of the passion that built The Locomo.
“It’s a love story,” said Sessa. “We reopened where we began and we enjoyed as kids. Now we’re giving it to these kids.”
The main attraction at Springleton is the mile-long race track and 10 brand new stately go-carts that run independently.
They are race cars with a maximum speed of 18 mph and provide a thrill ride with banks and hills to maneuver. Safety is the top concern, and the course is constantly monitored by staff.
Single carts and double-seaters are available for unlimited rides with a wrist band or a single 4 1⁄2 minute run through the track.
Springton also has a bounce house, a water slide, a challenging miniature golf course, full arcade, and a train ride around the facility.
“Many people think it’s just the go-carts,” said Chris Milano. “But there’s so much more here.”
The grounds are manicured with sidewalks that connect all the activities, including an air conditioned snack bar and a food truck with an expanded menu.
Sessa, who is a teacher at Chocachatti Elementary, is the background support for her husband.
“It’s his business,” she said. “I just support him.”
In just two years, the newly renovated Locomo, with a resurfaced the floor and added lighting was able to establish itself as a family-friendly and safe place. It appeals to the nostalgic older generations who remembered skating on weekends and long summer days and a brand new group of skaters who relish in creative expression and state-of-the-art technology.
Milano collaborated with local schools and organizations to hold fundraisers and spirit nights to raise funds for education and charities. The Locomo helped raise approximately $15,000 for Hernando and Pasco County schools and charity events.
Milano expects Springleton will provide an additional outlet that gets children and their parents outside to enjoy some fun.
The Springleton grand opening celebration includes discounts on wrist bands. Purchase one at $20 and get a second band half off. The wrist bands include two hours of unlimited attractions. Each wrist band comes with a free hot dog, while supplies last.
The two-day event will also include live music, karaoke, face painting, prizes, coupons, raffle for a free bounce house rental from Cyclone Bouncers and other goodies. There will also be a dunk tank with Locomo employee “victims.” Admission to the event is free.
Email Hernando Today correspondent Kim Dame at [email protected].
