Albany, NY (WRGB) — Governor Hochul has announced the launch of the second round of the New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) Initiative, which will make $53 million in capital grants available to municipalities and nonprofit organizations. The initiative aims to expand access to safe swimming facilities across the state, particularly as extreme heat events become more common.

Governor Hochul said,

The NY SWIMS Initiative represents our commitment to getting people to put down their devices and spend time outdoors by ensuring every community across New York has the infrastructure needed to keep families safe while promoting physical activity and community connections. These investments will create lasting benefits for generations of New Yorkers.

The NY SWIMS Initiative, overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), has already awarded nearly $150 million in capital grants to 37 projects statewide. At least $25 million of the new funding is reserved for projects in underserved communities.

DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said,

DASNY is proud to administer the NY SWIMS Initiative, which addresses critical public safety needs while strengthening communities across New York State. These strategic investments in swimming infrastructure will provide safe recreational opportunities, support public health during extreme heat events, and create gathering spaces that bring neighbors together.

Eligible municipalities and nonprofit organizations can apply for grants ranging from $250,000 to $10 million for projects that expand swimming opportunities. Grant recipients must provide a 20-percent match toward total project costs. Eligible projects include the design, construction, renovation, or improvement of swimming facilities and related infrastructure such as bathhouses, public restrooms, and accessibility features.

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating,

This new round of NY SWIMS capital grants represents a major step forward in our commitment to equitable access to swimming options and water safety across New York. By investing in community pools and aquatic infrastructure, we’re creating more spaces for recreation and wellness while building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. Our agency looks forward to working with DASNY on this capital funding and urges municipalities and not-for-profits to apply. The end result will benefit New Yorkers statewide.

Applications for the grants will be accepted from September 24 through October 30, 2025, with awards announced no earlier than December 15, 2025. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate clear public benefit, serve underserved communities, and show strong preparation for implementation.

State Senator Jose Serrano highlighted the initiative’s significance, saying,

Improved access to local recreational facilities such as swimming pools can provide many physical and mental health benefits for New Yorkers.

The NY SWIMS Initiative is part of Governor Hochul’s broader “Unplug and Play” initiative, which includes significant investments in community centers, playgrounds, and other recreational infrastructure to promote physical and mental health by encouraging outdoor activities.