A rendering of the Revolution 32 ride, scheduled to make its appearance in 2019 at Rye Playland.

RYE, NY—Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino and executives with Standard Amusements have detailed the finalized construction schedule for $60 million of planned improvements at the county-owned Rye Playland amusement park under a public-private partnership deal.

Last May, Astorino, Standard Amusements and the Westchester County Board of Legislators reached agreement on a plan to pump more than $60 million into Playland— $30 million from Standard Amusements, which carries with it the right to operate the park for 30 years, and $30 million from the county to pay for 11 capital projects on the property, including refurbishing historic rides, improving structures for games and concessions, as well as shoreline rehabilitation.

The partnership agreement calls for the county to retain ownership of the 100-acre property. The project was delayed by litigation, but is now moving forward in earnest after a suit filed by the City of Rye against Westchester County's plans to revitalize the storied amusement park was dismissed in March of this year.

Standard Amusement's investment will go toward revitalizing Playland with new rides and attractions, as well as upgrading food and beverage choices, picnic areas, and restaurants and renovating grounds and buildings. The arrival of new rides and attractions, including Windstarz, Revolution 32, and Unicoaster, are scheduled for 2019 with more to follow in subsequent seasons, county officials state.

“Our efforts to save Playland and protect taxpayers through our public-private partnership with Standard Amusements are moving forward,” Astorino says. “Tangible proof is that construction is now set to get under way, and once completed, Playland will be infused with new excitement and experiences to be enjoyed alongside all the traditions, like the Dragon Coaster, that are part of growing up in Westchester.”

Playland is scheduled to open for its 89th season on Saturday under management by Westchester County. Standard Amusements will take over Rye Playland operations after 50% of the infrastructure work is complete, which is expected by November 2018.

Instant Insights /

Westchester County, Standard Amusements Detail Playland Improvements

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