Children's Museum Group Pleased Playland Deal OK'd By Legislators

Earlier today the Westchester County Board of Legislators voted unanimously to approve a 10-year lease for the to use the North Bathhouse. The organization quickly reacted with a statement from its president Corinne Zola:

“The idea for a children’s museum grew from a small group of parents sitting around a kitchen table into a regional movement that will benefit children, families and schools for generations to come. We are so grateful for the support not only from the community, but also from our legislators, who saw past the politics and voted in favor of our children,” said Corinne Zola, president of the Westchester Children’s Museum. “Playland is the perfect home for Westchester Children’s Museum. Now we will work harder than ever to open our doors as soon as possible.”

According to a press release from the Westchester Children's Museum, the 17-0 vote will allow the organization to pay $1 a year rent for the 21,390 square foot space.

The organization says it "is ready to invest more than $5 million in upfront repairs and interior work on the public building, plus an additional $7 milllion to create cutting-edge museum experiences." The group also claims it will generate $4 million in jobs.

In the meantime, the County is still considering a number of proposals to modify use of the rest of Rye Playland. 

Rye City Council voted to formally support Westchester Children's Museum this past March.

Rye City Mayor Doug French, who is member of the advisory committee reviewing these proposals, said that the committee was due to complete its report this month.

Asked by email to comment on the vote today, French responded, "I do not anticipate the vote of the Board of Legislators will impact on our report." 

Editor's note: WCM reached out to further substantiate the $4 million in jobs it will add to the economy. Specifically, they cite a release by County Legislator Judy Myers who said:

“ In a boost to the Westchester economy, this lease with Children’s Museum will create approximately 44 construction jobs, 33 operating jobs, more than 20 contracts with local vendors, and over 500 internships/volunteer opportunities. Best of all, the museum will bring an estimated 200,000 additional visitors to Playland – 75% of whom will visit in the amusement park’s slow season (during the months between October and May)…The Westchester Children’s Museum will pump approximately $4.5 million into the local economy per year, through direct spending, its operating budget contribution and parking revenue.”