As work continues to get Playland Amusement Park ready for its second season back under county management after the exit of Standard Amusements, the process is underway for selecting a contractor to handle the estimated $44 million to $50 million rehabilitation of the Playland Ice Casino.
According to the county, the project will consist of exterior and interior renovations including replacement of the ice skating rink and all associated cooling equipment. New finishes and lighting would be installed at all spaces within the casino building. The project includes new upgraded mechanical, plumbing and electrical equipment, information technology, security systems and associated work. For the exterior, there would be a new marquee, facade repairs, new windows and doors, and roof replacement. An exterior addition to the building will be constructed at the existing service yard to house electrical generators and chillers.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins announced that the amusement park itself would have a preseason opening weekend on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17 followed by the season’s grand opening on May 23. The park will follow a Wednesday through Sunday schedule for the remainder of the season through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7. This year is Playland’s 98th season and the Dragon Coaster, which has been undergoing extensive repairs and preventive maintenance is due to reopen after having been closed last season.
Opened on May 1, 1929, the 85-foot high wood coaster has a 3,400-feet long course. The initial drop is 75 feet. During the ride, the coaster cars go into the open mouth of a dragon and after a ride in the dark exit at the dragon’s tail. The dragon figure itself, which dated from about 20 years ago and replaced an original, is being rebuilt.
The head, tail and scales of the dragon were severely deteriorated due to lack of maintenance under the last operators of the park, according to the county. The recreated elements will feature galvanized steel frameworks and custom-molded fiberglass. The dragon’s iconic scales will be refurbished using vacuum-formed plastic designed to withstand the seaside climate along Long Island Sound.
The County Board of Legislators on March 23 approved bonding for an additional $9 million to cover the costs of various projects at the amusement park, bringing the current authorization to $21 million.
The east side of the Playland Music Tower was damaged by high winds over the winter with a large section of its stucco and insulation ripped off. It now has been repaired with new GP DensGlass sheathing in preparation for restoring the exterior surface.
A new nonprofit has been formed to help support, promote and preserve Playland. Known as The Friends of Rye Playland, the organziation is led by Robin Latimer who said, “Involving the energy and ideas of residents will help make the present and the future of Playland Park more successful. The community is going to have a role to play in the days to come – and that’s different and exciting news.” She is the wife of former county executive and now Congressman George Latimer.
“Playland is one of Westchester’s most cherished destinations and a place where many fond childhood memories are made,” Jenkins said. “As we welcome the 2026 season, I’m excited for visitors to experience everything Playland has to offer, including rides and games, treats, and Friday night fireworks. It is sure to be a memorable summer for all. I’ll meet you at the Dragon Coaster!”
