Carowinds, the family amusement park in Charlotte, North Carolina, is to remain closed for the rest of 2020 because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The 400-acre theme park was due to reopen on July 27. However, “continued uncertainty” in the region has meant operators of Carowinds decided to keep the park shut.

Carowinds is operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company.

Pat Jones, vice president and general manager at Carowinds, shared disappointment over the decision to remain closed but said “the safety of our guests and associates is always our top priority.”

Michael Johnson, York County Council chairman, described the announcement as “devastating” for tourism and jobs in the county. “This one really hurts. Carowinds is our largest tourist destination in York County. It provides thousands of full-time and seasonal jobs for adults and young people.

“A summer without Carowinds does not seem like summer at all. This is a huge blow to York County. Coronavirus has hit us in a big way, and this shows the seriousness of this pandemic,” Johnson added.

When Carowinds reopens, guests will be able to enjoy new attractions, including the Boogie Board Racer, the longest mat racing slide in the South East.