New York State announces $67.5 million for playground projects

New York State has announced $67.5 million in grants through the NY PLAYS (New York Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization) program to fund 89 projects across the state. The initiative aims to build, expand, and renovate public playgrounds to create accessible outdoor spaces for children of all abilities.

The funding will support 36 new playgrounds, 23 major expansions, and 30 renovations across 10 different regions, including New York City, Long Island, and the Capital Region. Projects range from modernizing existing neighborhood spaces to constructing new adaptive and inclusive playgrounds.

In the Southern Tier region, $3.4 million is allocated to three municipalities: the Village of Endicott will receive $409,200 for Riverview Park, the City of Norwich will receive $1.18 million for Weiler Park, and the Village of Montour Falls will receive $600,000 for an inclusive playground and ADA-compliant restrooms.