Universal Studios Hollywood is set to install two additional sound barriers around its new Fast & Furious coaster in response to noise complaints.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, which is currently undergoing technical rehearsals, will be the fastest coaster in Universal's lineup, reaching speeds of up to 72 mph.
On the theme park’s first-ever high-speed outdoor coaster, guests will race along 4,100 feet of aerial track in 360-degree rotating vehicles, designed to resemble iconic cars from Fast & Furious.
However, the ride has drawn noise complaints from local residents, with one telling the Los Angeles Times that the riders’ screams sound like "someone is getting murdered out there".
Screams on Universal's fastest coaster
In response, Universal Studios Hollywood will install two more sound barriers, as confirmed on social media by Los Angeles City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian’s office.
"We heard you,” the post reads. “Universal will start installing two additional sound barriers to address noise concerns."
Alongside the post, a caption reads: "We know the community is concerned about the noise from Universal’s new Fast & Furious ride, and Universal has provided an update: while recent sound testing met the park’s requirements, they will be installing two additional sound barriers to help reduce noise.
"The construction is expected to be completed by early next month."
In a statement to The Independent, a spokesperson for Universal Studios Hollywood said the attraction has been "operating in compliance with sound ordinance requirements".
They added: "Community feedback has been an important part of our testing process and in response to that feedback, we are implementing additional sound-reduction measures to further lessen sound levels in the adjacent neighborhood.
“We appreciate the community’s input and will continue to engage with our neighbors as the coaster remains in technical rehearsals ahead of its opening.”
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is also opening at Universal Orlando in 2027.
