Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that 30 community center projects across New York State will receive a total of $100 million in grants through the Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS) program. The funding, secured in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget, aims to support municipalities and nonprofit organizations in constructing or renovating centers that encourage physical health, mental well-being, and community engagement for both youth and older adults.
According to Governor Hochul, “Today, we’re delivering on our commitment to build stronger, healthier communities in every corner of New York State. NY BRICKS grants will create affordable and accessible spaces where kids can play, families can connect, and seniors can stay active and engaged. I’m proud to see this funding reach 30 communities, and I look forward to seeing these centers come to life.”
The NY BRICKS program will fund projects located in 22 counties throughout the state. More than 90 percent of the awarded funds are directed toward underserved communities. Grants range from $260,000 up to $15 million per project. The selection process prioritized demonstrated need, community impact, and viability with special consideration given to facilities offering affordable services such as childcare, eldercare, and mental health counseling.
A full list of grant recipients is available at dasny.org/BRICKS.
Each funded project must provide a 20 percent matching contribution. The program’s focus is on creating equitable access to recreational programming and essential services within safe gathering spaces.
Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez stated: “These NY BRICKS awards represent a major investment in the heart of our communities. From the North Country to Long Island and from Western New York to the Capital Region, these new and renovated community centers will provide safe, welcoming spaces where New Yorkers of all ages can connect, stay active, and access vital services. DASNY is honored to work with the OPRHP to administer this transformative program and grateful to Governor Hochul for her vision in creating opportunities for healthier, more vibrant communities across our state.”
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser added: “The NY BRICKS grants will help countless families find safe places to connect, play, and access vital community services. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and her ‘Unplug and Play’ initiative, we are proud to launch these capital funds in partnership with DASNY to strengthen communities across the state. Ultimately, the true value of NY BRICKS won’t be measured in dollars, but in the improved health, wellness, and connection for children, families, and seniors.”
State Senator José Serrano said: “The $100 million in NY BRICKS grants awarded to community programs across the state will strengthen infrastructure and expand high-quality services that improve health and well-being of New Yorkers of every age. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing community wellness, and I am proud that BronxWorks, which serves the 29th Senate District, will receive $5 million to support renovations of its facility at 1130 Grand Concourse.”
State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud commented: “I commend Governor Hochul for funding NY BRICKS grants that will create safe, welcoming spaces where New Yorkers can access affordable programs, build connections, and improve their physical and mental health. These projects will have a lasting impact across our state especially in underserved communities. I am pleased to see such meaningful support for our neighborhoods.”
Ben Thomases from Queens Community House stated: “Every day,the team at Queens Community House provides free essential services to support people of all agesand backgrounds.Attractive,welcomeing community centers are vitalto this work.Investing incommunitycentersis investing inneighborhoodsfor generations toc ome.WearegratefultoGovernorHochulforrecognizingtheirimportance ,creatingtheBRICKSprogram,and awarding a$5milliongrantto transformthePomonokCommunityCenterintoatruehomeforthiscommunity .”
The list of funded projects includes locations throughout regions such as Albany Jewish Community Center ($5 million), Village of Hempstead ($15 million), BronxWorks ($5 million), United Helpers Care ($9.88 million), Economic Opportunity Program Inc of Chemung County ($7.51 million), among others.
NY BRICKS is part of Governor Hochul’s Unplug and Play initiative which also includes other investments like $67.5 million for playground construction under NY PLAYS as well as funding through NY SWIMS aimed at swimming facility improvements statewide.
Administration responsibilities for NY BRICKS are shared by DASNY (Dormitory Authority) along with OPRHP (Office of Parks Recreation & Historic Preservation).
