Playland death prompts call for buyout of private rides

The death of a worker at Rye Playland has some Westchester legislators calling on the county to consider buying out private ride operators at the park.Two legislative committees met with Westchester County

News 12 Staff

May 28, 2014, 8:58 PM

Updated 3,614 days ago

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Playland death prompts call for buyout of private rides
The death of a worker at Rye Playland has some Westchester legislators calling on the county to consider buying out private ride operators at the park.Two legislative committees met with Westchester County Parks Commissioner Joe Stout and the director of Playland Tuesday to discuss safety procedures in the wake of Gabriela Garin?s death. Garin worked for a private ride operator when she was killed on the Mind Scrambler ride June 29. A county investigation determined the 21-year-old White Plains woman was thrown from the ride, dying from her injuries. Her family disputes that claim. The investigation into her death continues.
Stout supports the idea of the county buying out the nine private ride operators at the county-owned amusement park. Stout says he would feel more comfortable with the level of supervision if the county owned the rides.
However, some legislators are not sold on the taxpayers taking on more costs. In addition, Legislator Martin Rogowsky believes a private owner will be more diligent on the operation of the ride since it is that individual?s livelihood. Legislators also learned the state Department of Labor regulates private rides. There are no rules or regulations on the books for any amusement park rides. The state relies on the manufacturer's suggestions for safety.
Related InformationOfficials probe cause of Rye Playland death Playland death raises questions about ownership Rye Playland worker killed on Mind Scrambler ride


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