White Plains, NY — At their regular Board meeting Monday night, the Board of Legislators voted unanimously to rename a portion of Playland Parkway in Rye “John Carey Place” to posthumously celebrate his career in public service.

The Hon. John Carey passed away in October 2019 at the age of 95 but lived an extraordinary life. He was a veteran of World War II; he served as a Rye City Councilman and Mayor; he was a gifted attorney and legal scholar of international human rights law, and a Westchester County Judge and Acting Supreme Court Judge. In addition, he authored dozens of academic articles and two books. He was appointed to the United Nations Subcommission on the Prevention of Discrimination and the Protection of Minorities, a position appointed by both major political parties. He served in this capacity for nearly 25 years.

As a municipal official, Carey was known for being a strong coalition builder. After serving in Rye’s City Council, he became Mayor for two terms from 1974 to 1982. Carey worked on the acquisition of Rye Golf Club and a public beach next to Playland Amusement Park. He is also known for his successful efforts to both allow skateboarding for residents on public streets and to require “safety doors” on the Metro North New Haven line trains.

Legislator Catherine F. Parker (D – Harrison, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, Rye) said, “John Carey was an exemplary public servant, as a judge for Westchester County and later as Mayor of the City of Rye. It is fitting that we rename a portion of Playland Parkway after him so future generations can honor his contributions to the community.”

Board Chair Catherine Borgia (D - Briarcliff Manor, Cortlandt, Croton, Ossining, Peekskill) said, “John Carey Place will memorialize the life of a remarkable hometown hero who never stopped giving back. Adding John’s name to the road toward Rye’s historic Playland Park is a perfect way to celebrate his life and lasting legacy.”

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “John Carey held a long and distinguished career in public service – a Judge, Mayor, City Councilman and activist for so many important causes, a true public servant in every sense of the word. He was a man of many accomplishments, and he shared his life, his talents and his spirit with everyone he touched. John remained present and involved in his civic life until the time of his passing, and he is very much deserving of this honor that we know will live on for generations to come.”

The section of the Playland Parkway roadway to be renamed extends from Rye Beach Avenue and runs along the beach and pool parking lot north to the intersection with the upper circle of Playland Park.