NORWICH — The City of Norwich has been awarded $1,179,573 through New York State’s Places for Learning, Activity and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) grant program to support improvements at Weiler Park.

“This award represents a tremendous investment for recreation in the City of Norwich as well as in the overall quality of life for our residents,” said Norwich Mayor Robert D. Jeffrey. “This grant funding gives the City the opportunity to act upon our Park’s Master plan and renovate Weiler Park’s playground area to become bigger, better, safer, and create a more active and welcoming environment for the children and families of our community.”

The NY PLAYS initiative, overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), was established to help municipalities construct new playgrounds and improve existing recreational spaces.

In September 2026, New York State announced $67.5 million in NY PLAYS awards supporting 89 projects across all 10 regions of the state. The awards include funding for new playgrounds, major expansions and renovations.

“The NY PLAYS grant is tremendous news for the City of Norwich and for everyone who enjoys Weiler Park,” said Ward 4 Alderman and Norwich Common Council President Bill Loomis. “I look forward to seeing Weiler Park continue to serve as a centerpiece of recreation for years to come.”

The nearly $1.18 million award will allow the city to make substantial improvements to Weiler Park’s recreational infrastructure and provide enhanced spaces for children, families and residents of all ages.

“I want to thank everyone who helped make this award possible, including our City staff, especially Youth Bureau Director Anthony Testani, Parks Commission Chairman Chris Sprague, Eric Larsen, and LaBella Associates, who were crucial to the City’s application submission,” Jeffrey said. “This is an exciting time for our residents who love Weiler Park. This funding will allow the City of Norwich to preserve and enhance this highly regarded community park so that families, grandparents, parents and children of our community will create lasting memories of growing up, playing and having fun at Weiler Park in the City of Norwich.”

“Thanks to the Governor’s PLAY initiative the city will be able to make needed improvements to the playground area of Weiler Park. This is the first step in reimagining what Weiler Park can become,” said Anthony Testani.

The NY PLAYS award builds on the city’s continued efforts to invest in Norwich’s public spaces and strengthen recreational opportunities for residents. The NY PLAYS program is part of Gov. Kathy Hochul’s broader “Unplug and Play” initiative, which is aimed at expanding opportunities for children and families to spend time outdoors, be physically active and connect with one another.

The City of Norwich will provide additional information regarding specific projects, improvements and the anticipated timeline as planning and coordination progress.

— Information from the City of Norwich