'Blue Jet' due for a complete overhaul

A Tonawanda icon is getting a long overdue repair job
Korean War-era jet getting top-to-bottom overhaul.
Tonawanda's Kenney Park "Blue Jet" getting a makeover next year. Photo credit Jim Fink - WBEN

Tonawanda, N.Y. (WBEN) - Since it was first parked in a corner of Kenney Park, the iconic "blue jet" has served as a landmark, not only for the Town of Tonawanda but for the region as well.

But, the years - along with the weather and, up until 2009, when people could crawl up on the jet - has taken its toll on the decommissioned U.S. Navy jet.

"Time and weather has taken its toll," said Gina Santa Maria, Town of Tonawanda deputy supervisor.

So, beginning next spring, thanks to work being performed by Gabe's Collision, the jet will be getting a top-to-bottom overhaul and make over.

For a good part of next spring and summer, the jet will be covered by a tarp as crews from Gabe's will be working on the plane - section by section, beginning with its wings.

All of the work will be done according to U.S. Navy specifications as the Navy still owns the Grunman F9F-6P Cougar jet.

"We want it to continue to be the focal point of the park," Santa Maria said. "It is more than just an aircraft. To us, it is a public statement about respect and honor."

Located at the corner of Brighton Road and Colvin Boulevard, the jet also serves as the centerpiece of Tonawanda's Veterans Memorial.

"It may be one of the most identifiable landmarks we have in town," said Joseph Emminger, Town of Tonawanda supervisor.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Jim Fink - WBEN