New York City will welcome a cutting-edge addition to its water sports offerings with the announcement of a state-of-the-art floating pool on the East River. This innovative plus-sign-shaped pool will be located at Pier 35 on the Lower East Side. The project represents a significant step forward in expanding swimming access on the city’s waterways.
Filtration tests and expected market launch
Officials announced that filtration demonstrations for the floating pool will begin later this month. These tests are critical to ensure that the pool’s advanced filtration system can provide New Yorkers with safe and clean swimming conditions. Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the importance of this project and highlighted the city’s commitment to improving public swimming facilities.
“New York City’s waterways are among our most important assets. By exploring the possibility of a +POOL, we are not only building on our historic investments in public pools across the city, but we are also expanding equitable access to swimming for all New Yorkers, especially our children,” said Adams. The floating pool is expected to undergo final testing and officially open in 2025.
Governor Hochul’s commitment to access to swimming
Governor Kathy Hochul also emphasized the importance of the new pool in the broader context of New York’s investments in swimming facilities. “Through innovative solutions like +POOL, we are providing children and their families with safe places to swim in New York City,” Hochul said. She noted that NY SWIMS represents the largest statewide investment in the sport of swimming since the New Deal and aims to increase access to pools and provide children with water safety education.
Improved public swimming pools for this summer
In addition to the upcoming floating pool, New Yorkers can look forward to several upgraded public pools this summer. These improvements reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to improve its water infrastructure:
- Astoria Pool, Queens: After a $19 million renovation, Astoria Pool features a new pool shell, deck and lighting, as well as modern filtration and chemical treatment systems. Upgraded HVAC systems and electrical equipment are also part of the extensive overhaul.
- Edenwald Playground, Bronx: A fully renovated mini pool has been unveiled, offering residents new facilities.
- John Jay and Sheltering Arms Pools, Manhattan; West Brighton Pool, Staten Island: These pools have received new, colorful concrete decks and plantings for shade and aesthetic appeal, as well as new benches, fences and ADA ramps.
- Betsy Head Pool, Brooklyn; Lyons Pool, Staten Island; Highbridge and Jackie Robinson Pools, Manhattan: Important behind-the-scenes improvements include new utilities and HVAC systems that will ensure the pools continue to serve the community efficiently.
These improvements and the upcoming floating pool reflect New York City’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality recreational facilities in the face of increasing climate challenges and rising demand for public swimming spaces.
