Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a $100 million upgrade coming to Jones Beach State Park just as the unofficial start to the summer season gets underway.
The funding will redesign and renovate the East Bathhouse, a beloved piece of New York’s second most visited state park that’s been shuttered for 16 years.
"This is the last major piece of infrastructure at Jones Beach that hasn't been upgraded since the pool complex was shut down in 2008 because of the financial crisis,” said Hochul.
The renovation of the bathhouse will provide new experiences for families to enjoy at Jones Beach.
"This new East Bathhouse will provide a place for children to get comfortable around the water,” said Gov. Hochul. “It's going to have splash pads, which I absolutely love, a learn-to-swim pool and a playground."
Vincent Fennell, of Queens, says he remembers using the pool in the bathhouse when he was younger.
He said he’s happy to know others will get to enjoy it again soon.
"I remember it being a nice pool, but it's good to see it back in shape again,” he said. "Good to see some money and some effort being put into Jones Beach. It's a great place.”
Work will begin next year on the bathhouse and it's expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.
The governor also announced more funding for drones to detect sharks along the South Shore. Six drones will be used at Jones Beach throughout the summer.