The state is waiving swimming pool entry fees at New York state parks this summer. 

In the Capital District, this includes just two pools — Peerless and Victoria — both at Saratoga Spa State Park in Saratoga Springs.

Governor Kathy Hochul also launched a $1.5 million Connect Kids to Swimming Instruction Transportation Grant program to help with transportation to swimming lessons as part of the NY SWIMS initiative, a $150 million investment to support pools in underserved communities.

Grant details and guidelines are available on the State Parks website.

“Recognizing that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and that climate change will increase extreme heat events,” said a release from the governor’s office, “NY SWIMS will build out municipal swimming facilities in high-need areas, connect New Yorkers to the State’s rivers and lakes, deploy pools in urban environments, and invest in State parks and pools.

“It will also promote initiatives to help more New Yorkers swim safely by addressing the statewide lifeguard shortage, increasing swimming instruction, and increasing amenities at pools and beaches.”