NYC Launches Public Swimming Plan

A new plan to open up public swimming on the Hudson River will create more public beaches and swimming areas, reports Sarah Amandolare in Fast Company. “With its emphasis on municipal pools and natural waterways in communities that are underserved or vulnerable to extreme heat, the $150 million plan underscores how access to swimming addresses equity, public health, and climate resilience.”

The program starts to reverse decades-old swimming bans that predate the Clean Water Act and the subsequent improvement of water quality in New York City’s rivers. But “Misperceptions of Hudson River water quality will take time to change, experts say. And the new state guidelines still don’t allow communities to respond to water conditions as effectively as possible.”

The city is piloting a $16 million filtered floating pool in the East River, and “the State Department of Health issued guidance for new beaches in January aimed at helping communities throughout the state create their own floating pools in rivers and lakes.” The initiative also includes funding for lifeguard training and expanded access to swim lessons.

According to Amandolare, New York’s efforts are inspiring a global movement to encourage urban swimming. “A swimmable cities charter signed by about 30 international nonprofits, companies, and universities is also being finalized.”