12/05/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/05/2025 13:11
Awards Will Build or Renovate Centers that Serve Nearly 400,000 New Yorkers Across the State through Free or Low-Cost Programming
Projects Promote Physical Health, Mental Well-Being, and Community Connections for Families, Children and Seniors
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced 30 awards totaling $100 million through the Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS) capital grant program. The grants will support municipalities and nonprofit organizations across New York State in building or renovating community centers that promote physical health, mental well-being, and community connections for youth and older adults. The awards, which will benefit nearly 400,000 New Yorkers across the State, are funded from the $100 million NY BRICKS program, which Governor Hochul secured in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget.
"Today, we're delivering on our commitment to build stronger, healthier communities in every corner of New York State," Governor Hochul said. "NY BRICKS grants will create affordable and accessible spaces where kids can play, families can connect, and seniors can stay active and engaged. I'm proud to see this funding reach 30 communities, and I look forward to seeing these centers come to life."
The NY BRICKS grants will fund projects in 22 counties across New York State, reflecting the statewide reach and geographic diversity of the program. More than 90 percent of funding awarded will support projects in underserved communities. Awards range from $260,000 to $15 million and will support design, construction, renovation, and land acquisition for community centers. Projects were selected based on demonstrated need, community impact, and viability, with priority given to underserved communities and facilities offering affordable services like childcare, eldercare, and mental health counseling.
A complete list of NY BRICKS grant recipients is available at dasny.org/BRICKS.
The NY BRICKS program emphasizes the need for equitable, high-impact community centers that support youth, families, seniors and disadvantaged communities through accessible recreational programming, safe gathering spaces, and essential services such as childcare, eldercare, and mental health support. All awarded projects require a 20 percent matching contribution from recipients.
Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, "These NY BRICKS awards represent a major investment in the heart of our communities. From the North Country to Long Island and from Western New York to the Capital Region, these new and renovated community centers will provide safe, welcoming spaces where New Yorkers of all ages can connect, stay active, and access vital services. DASNY is honored to work with the OPRHP to administer this transformative program and grateful to Governor Hochul for her vision in creating opportunities for healthier, more vibrant communities across our state."
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser said, "The NY BRICKS grants will help countless families find safe places to connect, play, and access vital community services. Thanks to Governor Hochul's leadership and her 'Unplug and Play' initiative, we are proud to launch these capital funds in partnership with DASNY to strengthen communities across the state. Ultimately, the true value of NY BRICKS won't be measured in dollars, but in the improved health, wellness, and connection for children, families, and seniors."
State Senator José Serrano said, "The $100 million in NY BRICKS grants awarded to community programs across the state will strengthen infrastructure and expand high-quality services that improve health and well-being of New Yorkers of every age. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing community wellness, and I am proud that BronxWorks, which serves the 29th Senate District, will receive $5 million to support renovations of its facility at 1130 Grand Concourse."
State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, "I commend Governor Hochul for funding NY BRICKS grants that will create safe, welcoming spaces where New Yorkers can access affordable programs, build connections, and improve their physical and mental health. These projects will have a lasting impact across our state, especially in underserved communities. I am pleased to see such meaningful support for our neighborhoods."
Queens Community House CEO Ben Thomases said, "Every day, the team at Queens Community House provides free, essential services to support people of all ages and backgrounds. Attractive, welcoming community centers are vital to this work. Investing in community centers is investing in neighborhoods for generations to come. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for recognizing their importance, creating the BRICKS program, and awarding a $5 million grant to transform the Pomonok Community Center into a true home for this community."
The projects awarded funding include:
Capital Region
Central NY
Long Island
Mid Hudson
Mohawk Valley
New York City
North Country
Southern Tier
Western NY
Governor Hochul's Unplug and Play Initiative
NY BRICKS is a cornerstone of Governor Hochul's Unplug and Play initiative, which promotes physical and mental health by encouraging kids and families to put down their screens, take a break from social media, and prioritize recreation and outdoor activities. The initiative includes $100 million for NY BRICKS; $67.5 million for the Places for Learning, Activity and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) initiative helping New York communities construct new playgrounds and renovate existing playgrounds; and $150 million awarded in 2024 for the Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative plus an additional $90 million secured in the FY26 Enacted Budget, which includes $50 million for a competitive grant program supporting municipalities in the renovation and construction of swimming facilities and $40 million for other swimming-based investments.
The NY BRICKS program is jointly administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP).