AN old summer spot in New York City is back with a fancy facelift to the tune of $19 million. Despite the pricy upgrade, the attraction is totally free for public admission, with a front row seat to the city's iconic Hell Gate Bridge. The 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.

READ MORE ON NYC 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. Most read in Travel "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 h.