Los Angeles neighbors demand quieter rides as Universal's new coaster sparks outrage

Universal Studios Hollywood soft-launched its Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster in July, allowing a small group of guests to experience the 72 mph ride. Neighbors in the Toluca Lake area quickly reported that the attraction emits loud, scream-like noises that they liken to a violent scene, causing disturbance throughout the suburb. Several residents, including Patrick Nazari, Leonard R. Garner Jr., and Colby Jensen, voiced their concerns to local media, describing the sound as intrusive and reminiscent of a horror film.

The complaints reached LA Councilmember Adrin Nazarian, who issued a statement that Universal will add two new sound barriers to mitigate the issue, with work expected to finish next month. Universal has said its recent sound testing satisfies park standards and that it is complying with local sound ordinances, while also pledging to continue dialogue with the Toluca Lake homeowners association and schedule a community meeting before the coaster’s full opening.