ALBANY, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled NY SWIMS.
It stands for New York Statewide Investment In More Swimming, and it's the fourth proposal of Hochul's 2024 State of the State.
Hochul said that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one through four and that climate change will increase extreme heat events. So, NY SWIMS will build out municipal pools in high-need areas to connect New Yorkers to the state’s rivers and lakes, put pools in urban areas, and invest in state parks and pools.
“Access to swimming isn’t just about recreation – it’s about public health and climate resiliency,” Governor Hochul said. “NY SWIMS will be the largest statewide investment in swimming since the New Deal, expanding access for underserved communities and improving safety for kids across New York.”
Hochul also said it will help more New Yorkers swim safely by addressing the statewide lifeguard shortage, increasing swimming instruction and amenities at pools and beaches.
“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is enhancing our public health investment and expanding healthy recreational opportunities for all communities as we seek to close equity gaps and end health care inequities. NY SWIMS is the largest statewide investment in swimming in decades, and these State of the State priorities demonstrate our commitment to training new lifeguards, enhancing swim safety, and expanding access to swimming for all New Yorkers,” New York State Department of Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald, said.
According to the release, NY SWIMS will deliver $150 million in grant funding for localities to build out 10 new landmark public swimming pools in areas most in need, drive innovation in pool designs, and deploy pop-up above ground pools to combat extreme heat.
Hochul will also initiate a pilot program at state park pools that will offer free sunscreen to help families stay safe in the sun and enjoy the outdoors.
To learn more about the program click here.