NYC pool with amazing view that once hosted Olympic Trials is totally free to the public – following $19 million upgrade

A HISTORIC summer spot in New York City is back and making a splash after getting a fancy $19 million facelift.

Despite the pricey upgrade, the attraction is totally free for public admission, and offers a front-row seat to the city’s iconic Hell Gate Bridge.

NYC Parks Department

NYC Parks Department

Astoria Pool reopened in June after a yearlong hiatus for the upgrades.

It’s a historical place that many New Yorkers hold near and dear.

According to New York City Department of Parks and Recreation , it has a history pertinent to athletes of old.

In 1936 and 1964, Astoria Pool hosted the Olympic Trials for both the US diving and swim teams.

OLD FAITHFUL

New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue explained the importance of the revamp in a press release.

“Our free outdoor pools are incredible amenities for New Yorkers seeking to cool off, have fun, practice swim skills, and get some exercise,” she said in a statement.

“We’re thrilled to reopen the iconic Astoria Pool after an $18.9 million reconstruction project.

“And we’re continuing to make our city’s pool infrastructure even better through a recently announced capital investment of more than $1 billion over five years.

“We look forward to seeing New Yorkers make a splash this summer at our pools citywide.”

Mayor Eric Adams praised the reopening in a press release, embracing it as an oasis for New Yorkers to make a splash.

“New York City’s pools and beaches are incredible places for New Yorkers to come together, learn to swim, and beat the heat,” he said.

He noted that the recent heat waves make the reopening all the more welcomed.

“We’re making a splash with our billion-dollar investment over five years, which will open up more, better pools in all five boroughs for working-class New Yorkers to freely use,” Mayor Adams continued.

“That’s how we make New York City a more livable place for everyone lucky enough to call the greatest city in the world home.”

Some city officials are thrilled to try out the pool for themselves.

“Public pools are fantastic — and fun — cool options that help New Yorkers beat the heat,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol.

“This investment into our city’s pools will provide New Yorkers summer fun, exercise, and a refuge from heat.

“I applaud this huge commitment and look forward to diving in.”

The upgrades include a new pool deck, lighting, and pool shell.

It also boasts a brand-new filtration system and other additions to keep it running.

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