Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization
NY PLAYS is Governor Hochul’s statewide initiative to help communities create, expand and improve public playgrounds for children and families across New York State. The program supports safe, welcoming and accessible outdoor spaces that encourage children of all abilities to play, be active and connect with one another.
2026 NY PLAYS Awards
In September 2026, Governor Hochul announced $67.5 million in NY PLAYS grants for 89 projects across all 10 regions of New York State. The awards will support municipalities and nonprofit organizations undertaking playground projects in communities across the state.
More than $36 million will support projects in underserved communities.
The awards include:
- 36 new playgrounds
- 23 major expansions
- 30 playground renovations
View the full list of NY PLAYS award recipients
Read Governor Hochul’s NY PLAYS announcement
About the Program
NY PLAYS provides capital funding to municipalities and eligible nonprofit organizations for the creation, expansion and renovation of public playgrounds.
The program is part of Governor Hochul’s broader Unplug and Play initiative, which is expanding opportunities for children and families to spend time outdoors, be physically active and connect with one another.
NY PLAYS is overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
2026 Funding Round
Governor Hochul announced the first NY PLAYS funding opportunity in January 2026. The $67.5 million competitive grant program supported eligible playground projects across New York State, including funding dedicated to projects serving underserved communities.
Read the original NY PLAYS funding announcement