Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week the opening of a new competitive funding opportunity through 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 construct, expand, and renovate public playgrounds that are accessible to children of all abilities across the state.
NY PLAYS is part of the Governor’s broader Unplug and Play Initiative, which encourages children and families to reduce screen time and engage in outdoor recreation, physical activity, and in-person social connection. Research shows that outdoor play supports physical health, emotional well-being, and social development, and the NY PLAYS Initiative aims to provide communities with safe and welcoming spaces where young people can learn, play, and thrive.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of playgrounds, saying they are where children build confidence, form friendships, and develop lifelong healthy habits. She highlighted that the initiative will help communities across New York create inclusive outdoor spaces that support physical activity, emotional well-being, and real human interaction, benefiting children of all abilities and strengthening neighborhoods.
The program is overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). At least $35 million of the total funding will be reserved for playground projects in underserved communities, ensuring equitable access to high-quality play spaces statewide.
Eligible municipalities and nonprofit organizations may apply for grants ranging from $100,000 to $2.5 million to cover acquisition, design, construction, major renovation, or equipping of public playgrounds, along with other related capital costs. Applicants must provide a 20 percent match of total project costs, and for-profit entities are not eligible.
DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said the program supports communities as they invest in playgrounds that promote healthy development, creativity, and social connection, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to helping young New Yorkers get outside and engage with one another. Acting Commissioner of New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Kathy Moser noted that quality, accessible playgrounds attract families outdoors, encourage social interaction, and inspire a lifelong love of parks and nature.
The NY PLAYS Request for Applications and supporting materials will be available on DASNY’s website beginning January 6, 2026, with an informational webinar for potential applicants scheduled for February 13. Applications will be accepted from May 4 through June 15, 2026, and grant awards will be announced no earlier than August 3, 2026, following a competitive review process evaluating project readiness, community need, public benefit, and overall impact. Applicants must demonstrate site control, provide detailed budgets with supporting documentation, and show evidence of committed matching funds. Nonprofit organizations must obtain prequalification status through New York State’s Statewide Financial System before applying.
State Senator José M. Serrano praised the initiative, noting its importance for providing safe outdoor spaces where children can play and grow, and thanking Governor Hochul and state colleagues for maintaining and expanding the program.
The NY PLAYS Initiative builds on Governor Hochul’s Unplug and Play efforts, which invest in programs that promote outdoor recreation, physical activity, and community connection. Previous initiatives include the NY SWIMS program, which awarded $200 million to 57 swimming projects, and the NY BRICKS program, which provided $100 million for 30 community center projects. Together, these efforts reflect the Governor’s commitment to expanding access to recreational infrastructure that strengthens communities and improves quality of life.
