New York City Council Considers Extending Beach and Outdoor Pool Season by 2 Months, Despite Budget Concerns Raised by Critics
A new bill introduced by Democratic City Councilman Shekar Krishnan has sparked a debate among New York City residents. The bill proposes extending the beach and outdoor pool season by two months, starting from the second Saturday in May until the second Sunday in October. While this idea may sound enticing to those who enjoy spending summers by the water, critics have raised concerns about the potential strain it would put on the city’s budget.
Currently, the beach season in New York City begins on Memorial Day weekend and ends on the Sunday after Labor Day in early September. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily during this time. Outdoor pools, on the other hand, are open from late June until early September, with operating hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Councilman Krishnan’s bill aims to give New Yorkers more opportunities to cool off during the hot summer months. He believes that extending the beach and pool season would benefit all residents and even proposed building more pools and offering free swim lessons. However, NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue expressed concerns about the feasibility of this plan due to budgetary and operational challenges.
During a hearing, Commissioner Donoghue explained that the Parks Department is proud of its efforts to recruit lifeguards but still faces difficulties in hiring enough staff. She argued that expanding the beach and pool season as proposed by the legislation would not be feasible in the near future. With 14 miles of beaches and 53 outdoor pools under their jurisdiction, the Parks Department already has a significant responsibility in maintaining these recreational areas.
While Councilman Krishnan’s bill may have good intentions, it is important to consider the potential impact on the city’s budget. Extending the beach and pool season by two months would require additional lifeguards, maintenance, and operational costs. Critics argue that the city should focus on addressing other pressing issues, such as improving infrastructure or investing in education.
It is important to note that this bill only applies to public beaches and outdoor pools. Indoor public pools, which operate year-round, would not be affected by the legislation. This distinction suggests that the bill aims to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities specifically.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the New York City Council will approve this bill. While extending the beach and pool season may sound appealing to many residents, the concerns raised by critics regarding budgetary constraints cannot be ignored. Ultimately, the decision will come down to weighing the potential benefits against the financial implications for the city.
