NYCEDC Releases Request for "Self-filtering Swim Facility"

On this very special Wednesday, NYCEDC issued a “Request for Expressions of Interest,” otherwise known as an RFEI, for design proposals for a “self-filtering swim facility in the East River” — the very same idea we’ve been working on for years! The RFEI will result in a “lease, license or other agreement” with the City of New York through NYCEDC.

After years of advocating for access to the rivers for swimming and the realization of + POOL, we are thrilled the City has embraced this idea, harkening back to our historic roots when swimming in the river was a favorite pastime of more than 40% of New Yorkers. Thanks to an amazing community of supporters who said “I will swim in the river” and the hard work of an incredible staff, board and team we have hit a major milestone with a pathway to just what we need: access to the water from the City of New York to do our work.

Why an RFEI?

The City of New York can’t just give land (or water!) to people who ask for it — and they shouldn’t!  Hosting an open call for proposals is an important step – and it means anyone can express their interest. How amazing would it be if more folks submitted their ideas and vision for swimming in the river and plans to finance it for all of us? Having advocated for this for a long time, we call that a win!

Press

Read about this major milestone in:
The Wall Street Journal
New York Post
Gothamist
Crain’s
The City
Politico
6sqft