+ POOL’s Commitment to Environmental Funding

+ POOL joined forces with over 100 organizations as part of the New Yorkers for Clean Water and Jobs coalition to advocate for critical environmental investments in New York State’s FY 2025-26 Budget. Together, we sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul, urging bold action to address pressing environmental challenges and protect public health for all New Yorkers.

Why This Matters

New York’s environment is not just a natural treasure—it’s an economic engine and a vital public health resource. Investments in clean water, clean air, and sustainable infrastructure create local jobs, support disadvantaged communities, and ensure that future generations have access to safe, swimmable waterways like the East River.

Excerpt from Gothamist (November 2024):

Meyer said that if New York City were to face an extended drought similar to the one this fall, floating pools like +POOL could replace traditional pools that draw from the same reservoirs as the city’s drinking water.

“This is pretty unprecedented that we have this drought,” she said. “If these kinds of conditions continue, public pools are probably going to be the first on the chopping block.”

Here’s a breakdown of the key funding priorities we’re supporting:

$500 Million for the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF):

Funding projects that protect clean water, conserve open spaces, create parks, and prevent pollution. The EPF generates over $40 billion in economic activity annually and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs.

$600 Million for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act (CWIA):

Essential for modernizing New York’s aging water systems. From addressing boil water orders in Syracuse to replacing lead service lines, this funding ensures clean drinking water and resilient wastewater infrastructure statewide.

$200 Million for State Parks:

New York’s state parks provide recreation, solace, and economic benefits. With visitation at record highs, this funding supports maintenance and upgrades to keep parks safe and accessible.

$100 Million for DEC Capital Projects:

Investing in the Department of Environmental Conservation ensures projects like “Adventure New York” and critical health and safety improvements can meet growing demand.

Strategic Staffing for Environmental Agencies:

Increasing staff at agencies like DEC and DOH ensures the effective implementation of environmental programs and new federal mandates, such as replacing lead service lines and meeting stricter drinking water standards.

How +POOL Fits In

+POOL’s mission to create swimmable, clean waters in NYC aligns perfectly with these funding priorities. Clean water infrastructure, environmental protection, and public health investments are all essential steps toward realizing our vision of safe, accessible swimming in the East River.

What’s Next

We’re proud to stand alongside conservation groups, labor unions, businesses, and local governments in advocating for a sustainable future. As budget negotiations unfold, we’ll stay engaged, working to ensure these priorities are funded and communities statewide can benefit.

Every dollar invested in environmental programs helps create jobs, boost the economy, and protect the natural resources we all depend on. Together, we can make New York a leader in environmental resilience and equity.

More Info:

Environmental Funding Letter to Governor Kathy Hochul