Two Central New York swimming projects are getting a major boost as part of a new round of state funding aimed at expanding safe access to pools.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $63 million in grants through the second round of the New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming initiative. Among the recipients are projects in the City of Cortland and at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County.
The City of Cortland will receive $3.8 million to renovate the Yaman Park swimming facility. The project includes a new ADA-accessible bathhouse, shoreline restoration, improved beach access, and new shade structures. State officials say the upgrades will modernize the popular facility while making it safer and more accessible for residents.
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County was awarded $800,000 to build a new outdoor pool and pool house. Plans include unisex restrooms, outdoor showers, and a shaded pavilion designed to expand public access to swimming and water safety programs.
Both projects are part of the NY SWIMS program, which provides matching grants to municipalities and nonprofit organizations to build or modernize aquatic facilities. The initiative supports pools, bathhouses, accessibility upgrades, and related infrastructure that promote recreation and public safety.
“NY SWIMS has already shown how transformative safe swimming facilities can be for families and neighborhoods,” Hochul said, adding that the program helps communities build spaces that support health, safety, and recreation.
The Cortland and Cornell-area projects are part of more than $7 million awarded in Central New York during this funding round. State officials say the investments are designed to close long-standing gaps in recreation infrastructure, especially in communities with limited access to public swimming options.
Through two rounds of NY SWIMS funding, New York State has awarded $200 million to 57 projects statewide. The program also supports the governor’s broader Unplug and Play initiative, which encourages families to stay active, spend time outdoors, and stay cool during extreme heat.
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