Standard Amusements Ends Playland Contract, Seeks $60 Million from Westchester

Standard Amusements is attempting to terminate its contract to manage Playland Park in Rye, New York, just three years into a 30-year agreement, citing Westchester County's failure to fulfill its obligations, including a $150 million capital improvement project. The county disputes these claims, arguing that Standard has mismanaged the park, pointing to numerous ride closures due to poor maintenance and understaffing. Both parties are preparing for a potential arbitration process that may take up to a year, while Standard is demanding over $57 million in damages. County officials have expressed concern about the park's future, with some suggesting that Westchester may need to take over operations for the upcoming season. Legislators have criticized the partnership as troubled from the outset, with one stating, "This was a marriage made in hell." The situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the legal complexities of the dispute.