New York State is awarding $67.5 million to 89 playground projects across the state, including $2.5 million to expand the Kaiser Park playground in Brooklyn.
The funding comes through NY PLAYS, a statewide grant program supporting the construction, expansion and renovation of public playgrounds for children and families.
The Brooklyn award is part of $15 million being distributed to New York City projects. The city Department of Parks and Recreation will also receive $2.5 million for a new playground at Gwen Ifill Park in Queens and another $2.5 million to expand Lozada Playground in the Bronx.
“Playgrounds give children a place to be active, build friendships and connect with the world around them,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul. “Through NY PLAYS, we are investing in communities across our state and creating more safe, accessible places where children of all abilities can get outside and play. These projects will give more New York families opportunities to put down their devices, spend time together and build healthy habits that can last a lifetime.”
Statewide, the grants will support 36 new playgrounds, 23 major expansions and 30 renovations. More than $36 million is designated for projects in underserved communities.
For Brooklyn, the Kaiser Park investment will expand an existing public playground, adding to recreational infrastructure available to local children and families.
The state program is intended to create public spaces that are safe, welcoming and accessible to children of all abilities. Under NY PLAYS requirements, funded playgrounds must be publicly accessible, free and open seven days a week throughout the year.
The grants are part of the state's broader Unplug and Play initiative, which also includes investments in swimming facilities and community centers.
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.
The next stage will be the development and implementation of the funded projects. The state announced the NY PLAYS awards in September 2026 following a competitive grant process.
The program's funding supports capital costs associated with playground acquisition, design, construction, major renovation and equipment.
