Innovative Floating Swimming Pool Unveiled at Pier 35 in NYC for Summer Fun

New York City has officially announced the grand unveiling of NYC's first-ever floating swimming pool at Pier 35, set to revolutionize the city's summer recreational scene.
Revolutionizing Swimming Experience
Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams have introduced + POOL, a cutting-edge floating pool equipped with an innovative water filtration system at Pier 35 in New York's East River. The project, designed by Family New York & Playlab, Inc., aims to provide New Yorkers with safe swimming opportunities in the city's iconic waterways.
Final Testing and Water Filtration Demonstration
Pier 35, located near Manhattan's Lower East Side, has been selected as the prime location for + POOL. This month marks the beginning of a three-month water filtration demonstration project to ensure the pool's compliance with health and safety standards. The final testing phase is scheduled for the summer of 2025, with the plus-shaped pool filtering over a million gallons of river water daily without the use of chemicals.
Community Impact and Public Health
Andrea Gordillo, Chairperson of Manhattan Community Board 3, shared her excitement for the project, highlighting its positive impact on the community's recreational spaces and dedication to sustainability and public health. The project aims to increase access to swimming opportunities for underserved communities, particularly the youth, offering them a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the East River while learning essential water safety skills.
Unlocking Public Access and Workforce Development
The demonstration this summer seeks to gather crucial data for securing permits for the pool's final installation, contributing to efforts to promote safe swimming in urban waters. + POOL not only provides recreational opportunities but also supports workforce development by collaborating with local organizations like Henry Street Settlement to offer swim lessons, environmental education, and training programs for future lifeguards and water quality experts.
Equitable Access and Environmental Impact
Friends of + POOL remains committed to ensuring equitable access to urban waters, preparing New Yorkers for safe swimming experiences. The project serves as a recreational asset and a vital step towards reconnecting vulnerable communities with the city's waterways, addressing climate change challenges. The anticipated issuance of the first permit for river swimming in NYC harbor for + POOL sets the stage for future projects aiming to expand access to waterways across the state.
Innovations in Architecture and Design
Oana Stǎnescu, one of the designers behind + POOL, has been appointed as the curator of Beta 2024 - Timişoara Architecture Biennial in Romania, showcasing architectural innovation on a global scale. In New York, a hub for architectural creativity, exciting projects are reshaping the city's skyline, such as Studio Gang's Marlboro Agricultural Education Center in Brooklyn and Taller Frida Escobedo's new residential development in the same borough, aiming for a more inclusive and contextual architectural landscape.