NYC to make a splash with first-of-its-kind ‘floating pool’ in 2025

First-ever floating pool to float into NYC rivers in 2025 | Photo from +Pool/pluspool.org

Does the idea of swimming in New York City’s rivers seem unconventional, especially in this day and age?

Well, better be prepared to soak under the sun and discover NYC from a different point of view, as the city unveils plans for a first-of-its-kind floating pool that’s not just making waves but riding them in the East River or Hudson.

At the Children’s Aid – Dunlevy Milbank Center, Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul recently unveiled plans to fund “+Pool,” a groundbreaking water oasis shaped like a plus sign.

“I’m proud to partner with Governor Hochul to bring the +Pool, a unique and innovative swimming pool, to New York City—expanding access to swimming for all New Yorkers,” Adams said in a statement.

While the floating pool won’t be open to the public until 2025, pending successful tests, the announcement marks a step in their commitment to fostering equitable access to New York’s waters.

The +Pool initiative, backed by a crowdfunded company of the same name, aims to create a portable, water-filtering pool that not only provides a unique recreational experience but also aims to promote environmental awareness and water stewardship.

According to the official website, the 9,000 square-foot pool has a chemical-free filtration system designed to process hundreds of thousands of gallons of river water and transform it into a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. 

“We support the preservation, restoration, and conservation of natural bodies of water; promote water stewardship; and provide quality swim instruction and environmental education to prepare New Yorkers for a future where all have access to the water that surrounds them,” they added.

Furthermore, +Pool focuses on three main objectives: advocating for safe swimming in more NYC waters through updated guidelines, developing river swim facilities citywide, and implementing free swim and environmental education programs to enhance water awareness and provide learning opportunities for both youth and adults.

The approach underscores a renewed focus on creating dynamic, sustainable solutions for public recreation as they reclaim and revitalize the waters surrounding the city.