Governor Kathy Hochul announced that 30 community center projects across New York State will receive a total of $100 million in funding through the Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS) capital grant program. The grants are intended to help municipalities and nonprofit organizations construct or renovate centers aimed at improving physical health, mental well-being, and social connections among youth and older adults.
The NY BRICKS initiative is funded from the FY 2026 Enacted Budget, with nearly 400,000 New Yorkers expected to benefit statewide. Over 90 percent of the funds are directed toward underserved communities. Grants range from $260,000 to $15 million per project and cover design, construction, renovation, and land acquisition costs. Each recipient must provide a 20 percent matching contribution.
“Today, we’re delivering on our commitment to build stronger, healthier communities in every corner of New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “NY BRICKS grants will create affordable and accessible spaces where kids can play, families can connect, and seniors can stay active and engaged. I’m proud to see this funding reach 30 communities, and I look forward to seeing these centers come to life.”
Projects receiving support span 22 counties throughout New York State. Selection criteria included demonstrated need, potential community impact, project viability, as well as priority for facilities providing services such as childcare, eldercare or mental health counseling.
Robert J. Rodriguez, President and CEO of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), stated: “These NY BRICKS awards represent a major investment in the heart of our communities. From the North Country to Long Island and from Western New York to the Capital Region, these new and renovated community centers will provide safe, welcoming spaces where New Yorkers of all ages can connect, stay active, and access vital services. DASNY is honored to work with the OPRHP to administer this transformative program and grateful to Governor Hochul for her vision in creating opportunities for healthier, more vibrant communities across our state.”
Kathy Moser—Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation—added: “The NY BRICKS grants will help countless families find safe places to connect, play, and access vital community services. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and her ‘Unplug and Play’ initiative we are proud to launch these capital funds in partnership with DASNY to strengthen communities across the state. Ultimately the true value of NY BRICKS won’t be measured in dollars but in improved health wellness connection for children families seniors.”
State Senator José Serrano noted: “The $100 million in NY BRICKS grants awarded to community programs across the state will strengthen infrastructure expand high-quality services that improve health well-being of New Yorkers every age. I am grateful Governor Hochul prioritizing community wellness proud BronxWorks which serves 29th Senate District receive $5 million support renovations its facility at 1130 Grand Concourse.”
State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud commented: “I commend Governor Hochul for funding NY BRICKS grants that will create safe welcoming spaces where New Yorkers can access affordable programs build connections improve their physical mental health These projects have lasting impact across our state especially underserved communities pleased see such meaningful support neighborhoods.”
Ben Thomases CEO Queens Community House said: “Every day team Queens Community House provides free essential services support people all ages backgrounds Attractive welcoming community centers vital this work Investing community centers investing neighborhoods generations come We grateful Governor Hochul recognizing importance creating BRICKS program awarding $5 million grant transform Pomonok Community Center into true home this community.”
A full list of grant recipients is available at dasny.org/BRICKS.
The NY BRICKS program supports equitable development by focusing on recreational programming safe gathering places essential services like childcare eldercare mental health resources particularly benefiting disadvantaged groups.
Specific projects funded include:
– Albany Jewish Community Center ($5M) – Addition/renovation at Albany site.
– Village of Hempstead ($15M) – Construction new center.
– BronxWorks ($5M) – Renovations at Bronx location.
– Queens Community House ($5M) – Upgrades at Pomonok Community Center.
– United Helpers Care Inc., Ogdensburg ($9.88M) – Construction new center.
Other awardees span regions including Central NY Mohawk Valley Southern Tier Western NY Mid Hudson Long Island North Country.
NY BRICKS forms part of Governor Hochul’s Unplug and Play initiative—which also includes playground improvement efforts under Places for Learning Activity Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) with $67.5 million allocated—and further investments into swimming facilities via Statewide Investment More Swimming (NY SWIMS). The Dormitory Authority partners with OPRHP on administration.