In an unprecedented move, Kennywood Entertainment has laid off 12 full-time employees at two of its four amusement parks -- Kennywood in West Mifflin and Idlewild Park at Ligonier.

The eight layoffs at Kennywood and four at Idlewild cut across the board and included managers, some whom have worked in the parks for many years. The employees were told individually on Nov. 9.

"These are good people who have been here for many years. It has been very difficult," said Mary Lou Rosemeyer, park spokeswoman.

She said the layoffs are a result of restructuring and increased expenses for gasoline, property insurance, health insurance and taxes.

"Our property insurance is going up 25 percent due to the hurricanes," Ms. Rosemeyer said.

She said the amusement and travel industries are facing both increased competition and costs, especially since the hike in gasoline prices.

"Our revenues were good as a company, but our expenses increased," she said.

Kennywood also owns Sandcastle, a water park in West Homestead, and Lake Compounce in Bristol, Conn.

Park officials continue to push for the completion of the Mon-Fayette Expressway in Allegheny County, which they say is an important link needed to attract more out-of-state people to their parks.

Ms. Rosemeyer said about 200 employees work in Kennywood's amusement parks.