FY 2026 Enacted Budget includes $100M for recreational infrastructure

ALBANY | Gov. Kathy Hochul has announced that funding is available from the new $100 million funding is available from the new $100 million Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS) capital grant program. (NY BRICKS) capital grant program. Gov. Hochul secured this funding in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget to support municipalities and nonprofit organizations in building or renovating community centers that promote physical health, mental well-being, and community connections for youth and older adults. NY BRICKS will offer grants of up to $15 million to fund design, construction, renovation, and land acquisition for these centers. Priority will be given to projects in underserved communities, as well as those offering affordable services like childcare, eldercare, and mental health counseling. The program aims to make transformative, high-impact investments in local communities. This announcement builds on Gov. Hochul's 'Unplug and Play' initiative to get kids off of their phones by funding playgrounds, community centers, affordable sports programs and recreational opportunities. "Every New Yorker deserves a safe, welcoming space to grow, connect, and thrive," Gov. Hochul said. "We're investing in the future of our communities — creating vibrant centers where kids can play, seniors can stay active, and families can access the support they need. This is about building more than infrastructure — it's about building opportunity, equity, and well-being in every corner of our state." As part of the Governor's FY 2026 Enacted Budget and State of the State proposals, NY BRICKS offers grants between $250,000 and $15 million to acquire, design, construct or reconstruct facilities, provide major renovations, improvements, and modernization or rehabilitation of community centers. The Request for Applications (RFA) for funding was posted June 5 at dasny.org and parks.ny.gov. The application period for the NY BRICKS capital grant program will open on July 14, and applications must be submitted by Aug. 15. Awards are expected to be announced no earlier than Nov. 1. Applications will be evaluated on characteristics of projects' need, impact, and viability. NY BRICKS grants will require applicants to provide a 20 percent matching contribution towards the overall project cost. Not-for-profit entities must receive approved prequalification status in the Statewide Financial System (SFS) prior to the submission of their application and must remain prequalified through the execution of the Grant Disbursement Agreement and payment of all requisitions.

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FY 2026 Enacted Budget includes $100M for recreational infrastructure

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