New York’s Public Pools Reopen in Grand Style: Celebrating 90 Years of WPA Outdoor Swimming Heritage
New York City’s public pools opened for the 2026 season with a ceremony marking the 90th anniversary of the city’s WPA-era outdoor pools, according to multiple official statements and city records. The event, hosted by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, featured remarks about the historic significance of the pools, which were constructed during the Great Depression under the Works Progress Administration.
The opening ceremony took place at the Charles A. Lindbergh Pool in Queens on June 28, 2026, with attendance by city officials, community leaders, and residents. Mamdani emphasized the pools’ role in providing public access to recreation and social equity, stating, “These pools are not just a legacy of the past—they are a commitment to the future of our city’s communities.” The mayor’s office confirmed the remarks were made during the event.
The WPA-era pools, built between 1934 and 1941, were part of a national effort to create jobs and public infrastructure. New York City’s 14 pools, including the Lindbergh Pool, were among the first in the country to be constructed by the WPA. According to the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the 2026 season marks the 90th anniversary of the first public pool opening under the program.
The city’s pool season typically begins in late June, with facilities open through September. This year’s schedule includes 12 outdoor pools, seven of which are WPA-era structures. The Department of Parks and Recreation reported that the 2026 season will feature expanded hours and free programming for youth, including swim lessons and fitness classes.
The anniversary celebration included a display of historical photographs and artifacts from the WPA era, curated by the New York City Municipal Archives. The archives’ director, Dr. Emily Torres, noted the pools’ enduring cultural impact, stating, “These facilities represent a unique intersection of public works, social policy, and community life.”
Residents and local historians praised the event as a recognition of the city’s heritage. “It’s important to remember how these pools served as spaces of inclusion during challenging times,” said Marcus Lee, a longtime Queens resident and founder of the Urban History Project. “They’re a testament to what public investment can achieve.”
The 2026 season also includes efforts to modernize some WPA-era pools while preserving their original design. The Department of Parks and Recreation announced upgrades to filtration systems and accessibility features at five historic sites, with funding allocated through the city’s 2025 capital budget.
City officials emphasized that the pools remain free to use, with admission open to all residents. The department reported that over 2 million people visited the city’s outdoor pools in 2025, with WPA-era sites accounting for nearly 40% of total visitors.
The anniversary event coincided with broader discussions about public infrastructure in New York City. Council Member Yolanda Martinez, who represents Queens, highlighted the need for continued investment in recreational facilities, stating, “These pools are a model for how we can balance preservation with progress.”
As the 2026 season begins, the city’s pool facilities will remain open daily through September 30, with hours varying by location. The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages residents to check individual pool websites for programming details and safety guidelines.
The WPA-era pools’ 90th anniversary underscores their role as both historical landmarks and functional public spaces. Their continued operation reflects a commitment to preserving civic heritage while adapting to modern needs. As Mamdani noted during the opening ceremony, “These pools remind us that public spaces are not just buildings—they are the heart of our communities.”