When the summer heat comes a-knocking each year, some Queens residents find themselves without a space for refuge from the high temperatures. As a part of a $46.1 million state investment to expand swimming in the boroughs, neighborhoods without easy access to swimming pools will soon see a change on that front.
For residents in Arverne and Edgemere, their proximity to the ocean doesn’t change the general opinion about the need for a public pool. The new development would instead provide a safe, clean environment for all swimmers without making them worry about unpredictable beach weather and water conditions.
“Sometimes we go to the beach, but it’s not that worth it because the water is really cold,” says a 17-year-old Arverne resident in a statement to the New York Post. “An indoor pool would be interesting because it’s either really hot or really cold here. I’m sure people will use it a lot, it’ll probably be packed.”
Ten million dollars of the $46.1 million investment is for Queens, which came from the NY SWIMS initiative. This act was unveiled in January 2024 by New York Governor Kathy Hochul in an effort to promote safer swimming. By building 10 new public pools in areas most in need, NY SWIMS is addressing a lifeguard shortage across the state and increasing both swimming instruction as well as amenities at pools and beaches.
“Access to swimming isn’t just about recreation — it’s about public health and climate resiliency,” Governor Hochul said in her January address. “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.”
The planned indoor and outdoor pool will be built at the forthcoming Arverne East Aquatic Center, which has yet to break ground. However, the New York Post reports that there are four renovations to existing pools that are in the works, including Van Cortlandt Pool in the Bronx, Hansborough Rec Center and Hamilton Fish Recreation Center in Manhattan as well as the Tompkins Square Park mini-pool in Manhattan.
“Our local families deserve a high-quality space where they can swim, relax and enjoy the outdoors,” says Council Member Eric Dinowitz in a statement to the New York Post. “We’ve passed several bills in the City Council to expand access to pools and swimming lessons, so this news couldn’t come at a better time.”
