Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of a new grant program under the New York Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) Initiative. The program will provide $67.5 million in capital funding to help municipalities and nonprofit organizations across New York State construct, expand, or renovate public playgrounds that are accessible to children of all abilities.
The NY PLAYS Initiative is part of the broader Unplug and Play Initiative led by Governor Hochul. This effort encourages families and children to spend less time on electronic devices and more time engaging in outdoor recreation and social activities. The initiative aims to support communities in creating safe spaces where young people can learn, play, and develop socially.
“Playgrounds are where kids build confidence, friendships, and lifelong healthy habits,” Governor Hochul said. “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. By investing in playgrounds, we’re investing in the health and happiness of our children of all abilities and the strength of our neighborhoods.”
The program is overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation with administration by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). At least $35 million from the total funding will be directed toward projects in underserved communities to promote equitable access to quality outdoor play areas.
Eligible applicants include municipalities and nonprofit organizations seeking grants between $100,000 and $2.5 million for costs related to acquiring land, designing sites, constructing or renovating playgrounds, or purchasing necessary equipment. Applicants must contribute a 20 percent match toward project costs; for-profit entities cannot apply.
DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez stated: “DASNY is proud to administer the NY PLAYS Initiative and support communities as they invest in playgrounds that promote healthy development, creativity and social connection. 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.”
New York State Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser added: “Quality, accessible playgrounds are a magnet that draw young families outside and help ignite a lifelong love of parks and nature. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, the NY PLAYS initiative will build more playgrounds in our communities and encourage more children to make new friends and take part in healthy, active recreation.”
Application materials will be available starting January 6 on DASNY’s website at www.dasny.org/PLAYS. An informational webinar is scheduled for February 13 for potential applicants. Applications will be accepted from May 4 through June 15.
Grant awards are expected to be announced no earlier than August 3 following a competitive review process based on project readiness, community need, public benefit, and impact. Applicants must demonstrate site control as well as provide detailed budgets with supporting documentation showing committed matching funds. Nonprofit applicants must obtain prequalification status through New York State’s Statewide Financial System before submitting an application; details can be found at grantsmanagement.ny.gov/get-prequalified.
State Senator José M. Serrano commented: “The New York Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) Initiative is an important investment for municipalities and nonprofit organizations to construct, expand and renovate public playgrounds across New York State. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation I firmly believe spending time outdoors is vital to our health and overall wellbeing. Many thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul and my colleagues in government for working to maintain this important initiative so New Yorkers have safe places to play outside.”
Governor Hochul’s Unplug & Play Initiative also includes other major programs such as NY SWIMS—which has allocated $200 million for swimming-related projects—and NY BRICKS—which has provided $100 million for community centers throughout New York State—demonstrating ongoing investments aimed at improving recreational infrastructure statewide.
