In an effort to encourage kids to “get offline, get outside,” New York is waiving entry fees at state park pools, two of which are in New York City.
It’s all part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s campaign to promote physical and mental health by helping New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. And for Governor Hochul, who loves swimming, getting kids into the state’s pools is a priority.
In January, the governor announced her NY SWIMS initiative, the New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming, which is intended to dramatically expand access to safe swimming, address equity gaps with recreational activities, and provide resources for communities facing extreme heat. As part of that, the state is allocating a historic $150 million in building new swimming facilities and renovating those in disrepair. It’s New York’s largest investment in swimming since FDR’s New Deal.
In July, Governor Hochul announced the state will waive pool entry fees for the rest of summer as part of her twin goals to promote mental and physical health by getting kids off their cell phones and getting active.
“We’re making it easier for our young people to put down their phones and computers, enjoy time with friends and family, and stay active all across our state,” Governor Hochul said. “That’s our advice: don’t scroll through life, just dive right in. Summer is here — get offline and get outside.”