Nick McWilliams reporting – Higher costs for parts and repairs have impacted the recreation sector, including at Tuscora Park.
RTY, Inc, which operates and manages the rides at the largest park for New Philadelphia, has been experiencing strain with expenses to keep all attractions up to code on the rise.
Mayor Joel Day recently told council that he had received a letter asking for $25,000 to be used for maintenance costs this year and in 2024.
“Since Tyler’s Law was implemented in 2021, RTY’s expense to keep amusement rides in compliance has more than doubled. It’s cost in 2022 was $25,697 over $18,000 more than it paid before the law was enacted.”
The law was first enacted after an 18-year-old Columbus man, Tyler Harrell, was killed on an amusement ride, which showed excessive wear in key components revealed during a later inspection.
Day notes that the law keeps amusement seekers safe, but also that ticket revenue for rides and the miniature golf course cannot cover the costs moving forward.
“I ask council to seriously consider this request from RTY. As was stated in their letter, without some assistance, rising expenses could push RTY out of business when the money is exhausted. And we don’t want that to happen.”
Under the law, rides must undergo specific fatigue and corrosion checks by state certified inspectors, and documentation must be filed with the state for the life of the structure.
RTY, Inc. recently completed a two-year rebuild of the ferris wheel thanks to donations, which was spurred on by the passing of Tyler’s Law.
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