Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the second round of the Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY Bricks) capital grant program, making $75 million available to municipalities and nonprofit organizations to build, renovate and modernize community centers across New York State.
Governor Hochul secured the funding in the FY2027 Enacted Budget to support community centers that promote physical health, mental well-being and connections among youth and older adults. The second round of NY Bricks will provide grants ranging from $250,000 to $15 million, with priority given to projects in underserved communities.
“Strong communities need places where people can come together, stay active and build lasting connections,” Governor Hochul said. “Through this $75 million investment, we’re giving municipalities and nonprofits the resources to build and improve community centers that serve New Yorkers of all ages. NY Bricks is helping us create more opportunities for kids to play, families to connect and older New Yorkers to stay active in communities across our state.”
The second round of NY Bricks will provide grants for projects that build or improve community centers. Eligible projects include design, construction, reconstruction, major renovations, improvements, modernization and rehabilitation. Grant recipients must provide a 20 percent match toward total project costs.
Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “DASNY is proud to help deliver another $75 million in NY Bricks funding to communities across New York. Community centers give New Yorkers places to come together, stay active and access programs and services that strengthen their neighborhoods. We thank Governor Hochul for continuing to invest in these important spaces and look forward to working with our partners at State Parks and communities across New York to bring these projects to life.”
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s NY Bricks program, New York State is making it easier for families to disconnect from their devices, get active and enjoy the benefits of recreation. Our agency looks forward to working with community partners across the state to help more New Yorkers access high-quality recreational facilities and experience the mental and physical benefits of staying active year-round.”
The Request for Applications and supporting materials for the second round of NY Bricks are available at Dasny.org/bricks and parks.ny.gov. The applicant question period is now open, and a webinar for potential applicants will be posted by Sept. 14. Questions must be submitted by Sept. 30, with answers posted by Oct. 26.
Applications will be accepted through the DASNY Grants Application Portal beginning Nov. 2 and must be submitted by 3 p.m. Dec. 7, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced no earlier than Feb. 26, 2027.
Applications will be evaluated based on project need, impact and viability. Nonprofit applicants must receive approved prequalification status in the Statewide Financial System before submitting an application and must remain prequalified through execution of the Grant Disbursement Agreement and payment of all requisitions.
Governor Hochul’s Unplug and Play Initiative
Governor Hochul’s Unplug and Play initiative promotes physical and mental well-being by expanding opportunities for New Yorkers to put down their screens, stay active and connect with their communities.
NY Bricks supports the construction and renovation of community centers serving youth and older adults. Through the first round of the program, New York awarded $100 million to 30 projects in 22 counties that are expected to serve nearly 400,000 New Yorkers. More than 90 percent of the funding supports projects in underserved communities. The FY2027 Enacted Budget provides another $75 million for the program’s second round.
The Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY Swims) initiative supports the construction and renovation of public swimming facilities. Through three rounds of competitive grants and other state investments, nearly $260 million has been announced for 79 projects expected to benefit 2.5 million New Yorkers.
The Places for Learning, Activity and Youth Socialization (NY Plays) initiative is making $67.5 million available to help communities build new playgrounds and renovate existing ones.
Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign complements these investments by encouraging children and families to put down their screens, spend time outdoors and prioritize their physical and mental health.
