Governor Kathy Hochul has put her weight behind expanding outdoor play with the recent announcement of the NY PLAYS grant program. According to an official statement on the governor's website, the program is geared to furnish $67.5 million in funding to assist in building and revamping playgrounds across New York State. Aimed at municipalities and nonprofit organizations, the initiative promises to foster environments conducive to the well-being of youth. "Through the NY PLAYS Initiative, we're helping communities across New York create safe, inclusive outdoor spaces that support physical activity, emotional well-being and real human connection," Hochul noted, as per the Governor's Office.
The program falls under the larger umbrella of the Governor's Unplug and Play Initiative, intended to draw children and families away from screens to enjoy physical and social outdoor activities. Research backs the governor’s focus, highlighting how outdoor play is critical to young people's physical and emotional health. With the NY PLAYS grants, ranging from $100,000 to $2.5 million, eligible applicants are set to build or upgrade public playgrounds. However, these grants require a 20 percent match from the recipients, Hochul's office specified.
According to the Governor's Office, a sizeable portion of the fund, at least $35 million, is earmarked for projects rooted in underserved communities. This move aims to balance the playground access scales. "These projects strengthen neighborhoods, expand access to safe outdoor spaces, and reflect the Governor’s commitment to helping young New Yorkers unplug, get outside and engage with one another in meaningful ways," said DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez.
The administration process for these grants will be overseen by both the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). "Quality, accessible playgrounds are a magnet that draw young families outside and help ignite a lifelong love of parks and nature," Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser added. The call for grant applications kicked off yesterday with an informational webinar to be held on February 13, and applications will be accepted through June 15. Applicants must show evidence of committed matching funds and prove they have control over the project site to qualify for consideration.
Furthermore, State Senator José M. Serrano praised the initiative for its commitment to enhancing outdoor spaces for New Yorkers. "Spending time outdoors is vital to our health and overall wellbeing," Serrano affirmed, according to the Governor's Office. Hochul's overall Unplug and Play Initiative isn't stopping at playgrounds, after seeing significant statewide impact through programs such as the NY SWIMS and NY BRICKS, injecting hundreds of millions into recreational infrastructure. For application details and further information, interested parties can visit the DASNY website.
