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The Rye Town Park Commission sent out a request for proposals to solicit interest from public and private non-profit and for-profit organizations that may want to take over management of the park. The town is hoping to explore creative options for how the park's assets and structures can be efficiently utilized.
"Though the park and beach are both well-loved and well-used, time and weather have taken their toll on many of the structures," the proposal reads.
The park is currently managed by the Rye Town Park Commission, which is made up of officials from the City of Rye, the Town of Rye, and the villages of Port Chester and Rye Brook. The costs of financial- operating shortfalls, capital improvements and capital repairs are split among the communities. The park's shortfall in 2012 was $89,000, according to the town's confidential secretary Bishop Nowotnik, although he said that number may come down after an audit. The year-to-date shortfall at the end of June was $75,000, though that number did not take into account factors such as pavilion rentals and Federal Emergency Management Agency revenue.
The bathing pavilion, which also acts as an administration building, was first built in 1909. The commission feels that the building is underutilized and in need of repair. It currently does not have a heating system or centralized air, and has minimal plumbing and electrical services. The town is hoping that proposals will find a way to incorporate a year-round use for the building.
The commission has also issued a request for proposals to refurbish the pavilion. The deadline for proposals for that project was July 31, but the commission had difficulty generating interest. The deadline has been extended to November, and the commission has contracted a planning consultant to help attract proposals.
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