Tag Archives: NY SWIMS

history, Park Projects, Recreation, Uncategorized

Iconic East Bathhouse Project Brings Past and Present Together at Jones Beach

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A day spent at the beach or by the pool in the summer is a core Long Island experience. There’s nothing better than a dip in the water to cool off from the heat, and a trip to Jones Beach State Park has it all: sun, sand and, soon, a new safe place to have fun in the water!

In summer of 2026, the iconic 1930 Jones Beach East Bathhouse will be reimagined for a new generation to enjoy. As part of Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS Initiative to expand access to safe swimming in New York, a $100 million investment was secured for the revitalization. State Parks is overseeing the project in collaboration with the Office of General Services, and construction is currently underway.

Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons and Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy give an update on construction at the Jones Beach East Bathhouse. The project is under budget, ahead of schedule and slated to be completed in 2026.
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Park Personnel, safety

How to Break the Grip of the Rip (Current)

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For millions, summer on Long Island means time spent in the sun, the sand and the sea. Iconic Jones Beach State Park drew 9.5 million visitors to its expansive sandy shores in 2024, followed by Robert Moses, boasting 3.9 million visitors. After visitors have slathered on the sunscreen, secured their valuables and anchored their umbrellas, what are they thinking about in terms of beach safety?

While sharks might immediately come to mind, lifeguards and park staff use equipment, constant communication, and a trained eye to watch for marine life activity and keep beachgoers safe. Knowing that water hazards like rip currents, however, pose more significant risks to swimmers than sharks, our staff set out to spread the word on how to manage these lesser-known acts of nature.

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Recreation, safety, Wellness

Ready, Set, Swim Safely!

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Swimming and State Parks: name a more iconic duo! In ‘The Centennial Pulse of the Parks’ survey by Open Space Institute, 39 percent of our visitors named swimming as their favorite state park activity. From expansive beaches on the ocean and Great Lakes, to small beaches along the lakes and rivers throughout the state, and pools and spraygrounds in cities and near campgrounds, there’s a place for everyone to swim.

The Roberto Clemente State Park Learn-to-Swim Class of 2024! Under the NY SWIMS initiative, State Parks operated 22 Learn-to-Swim programs statewide in 2024, triple the number of the previous year.
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2024 Centennial Celebration, Camping, Family Fun, Fun & Games, Hiking, Historic Sites, Recreation

Summer Fun at State Parks and Historic Sites

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There’s nothing quite like a New York summer! It’s peak season at New York State Parks and Historic Sites. Camping is in full swing, whether it’s in one of our cabins, or in tents or RVs. The swimming season is underway at our beaches and pools. And if you’re looking to make the most of the season, we’ve got you covered. Our expert staff members have combed the state to suggest exciting summertime experiences for everyone. There’s bound to be something new for you on this list!

Listen to the Sounds of Summer

Performances at Artpark, left, and at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park.

Summer concerts are happening all season long, and there’s an affordable live music option for everyone. Enjoy the longer days and warmer nights with festivals and performances by world-famous musical artists at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park, Jones Beach Theater at the iconic Jones Beach in Wantagh, and Artpark in Lewiston, or boogie with your favorite local bands at a state park or historic site near you. All options offer the chance to relax and enjoy the show from a blanket or chair.

– Written by Gabriela Wemple, Excelsior Service Fellow

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Recreation, safety

Swim Safely This Summer

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The days are getting longer, and it won’t be long before the swim season is here! 2024 kicked off with the exciting announcement of NY SWIMS: the largest investment in public swimming in nearly a century.

This multifaceted program seeks to provide all New Yorkers with access to safe swimming opportunities, particularly in underserved and heat-prone communities. It calls for new or revitalized swim areas at Sojourner Truth, the East Bathhouse at Jones Beach, and Lake Sebago at Harriman State Park. It expands our existing learn-to-swim program, supports lifeguard recruitment and retention, provides transportation to people who can’t otherwise access swimming, and includes grant funding for communities to build or renovate swimming facilities.

The NY SWIMS program also has a serious goal: to reduce childhood drowning. On average, 11 people drown every day in the United States during the summer. Drowning is the leading cause of death among children aged one to four years old in the United States, and the second-leading cause of death for children aged 5 to 14. Children with autism are 160 percent more likely to die from drowning. Other medical conditions also increase drowning risk. As you begin to plan your summertime swimming adventures, here are some tips to keep it safe.

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