DASNY, City of Ogdensburg Break Ground on $3.1 Million Pool Renovation Supported by NY SWIMS

$2.5 Million State Investment Will Modernize Aging Facility and Expand Access to Safe, Accessible Swimming in the North Country

OGDENSBURG, NY - The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) joined City of Ogdensburg officials and community leaders today to break ground on the renovation of the Elsa M. Luksich Municipal Pool, a $3.1 million project supported by a $2,508,000 grant through the New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative.

The project will fully rehabilitate the aging pool and bathhouse complex, including a new pool surface, upgraded filtration and plumbing systems, improved accessibility features, and the addition of a new splash pad and enhanced community amenities.

"This is about making sure families here in Ogdensburg have a place they can count on - a place to cool off in the summer, to bring their kids, to be part of the community," said DASNY President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez. "Through the Governor's Unplug and Play initiative, we're investing in spaces like this so communities have safe, reliable places that are built to last."

Originally constructed in 1994, the Elsa M. Luksich Municipal Pool has served the community for more than three decades but now requires significant upgrades. The project will bring the facility up to modern standards, improving safety, accessibility, and overall user experience.

While work on the pool moves forward, residents will be able to enjoy a new splash pad expected to open this summer, giving families another place to cool off.

"This project will transform one of our most important community spaces," said City Manager Fonda Chronis. "We understand the impact of closing for the season, but this project will deliver a much better facility for our residents, and we're excited to bring the new splash pad online and give families a place to gather while construction is underway."

DASNY was represented at the event by Sara Richards, Managing Director, Executive Direction, who delivered remarks on behalf of the Authority.

The project is funded in part through NY SWIMS, a statewide initiative that supports upgrades to public swimming facilities in underserved communities. Administered by DASNY in partnership with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, NY SWIMS is part of Governor Kathy Hochul's "Unplug and Play" initiative, a broader investment in community infrastructure that includes NY BRICKS and NY PLAYS. Through NY SWIMS, New York State has awarded $200 million to 57 projects across the state to expand access to safe, modern swimming facilities.