Why Our Community Needs a Public Pool --- and How You Can Help Make It Happen

Liz
May 23
2 min read

Many are surprised to learn that the Hamptons, despite its stunning coastline and water-centric culture, lacks a true community pool. Southampton, in particular, has no public indoor aquatic facility. The only option for year-round public swimming on the East End is the YMCA in East Hampton — a considerable commute for many. This gap in access to aquatic education and fitness resources leaves our community vulnerable, especially when it comes to water safety.

Did you know drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1–4? And that 23% of child drownings occur during family gatherings near water? In a community surrounded by beaches and backyard pools, swim lessons and water safety education aren't just valuable — they're essential.

At Hamptons Swim, we see this need firsthand. Demand for swim instruction continues to grow as the year-round population increases, and families seek safe, skilled instruction for their children. But not everyone has a private pool or access to swim programs during the off-season. This is why the proposed STAR AquaCenter is such an important and timely project.

A Vision for Year-Round Wellness and Safety

The STAR AquaCenter — spearheaded by the Southampton Town Aquatics & Recreation Corporation (STAR) — is a nonprofit initiative with a powerful mission: to enhance community wellness and water safety through the construction of a state-of-the-art indoor aquatic and fitness facility at 344 Magee Street in Southampton.

This facility will serve residents of all ages and abilities, providing a central location for swimming lessons, lifeguard training, competitive swimming, rehabilitation, fitness programs, and community gatherings.

What the Facility Will Include:

Competition Pool: An eight-lane, 25-yard by 20-yard pool with two one-meter diving boards — ideal for swim meets and athlete training.
Recreation Pool: A warm-water pool with zero-depth entry and varied depths to support therapy, family swim, and beginner lessons.
Fitness Center: Land-based programming, personal training, and wellness classes for all ages.
Community Spaces: Meeting rooms and event areas to foster year-round engagement and learning.

Project Progress & Support

As of May 2024, STAR has raised over $8 million toward its $30 million goal, with major support including:

A $5 million matching grant from the Klinsky family.
A $500,000 grant from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund.

Help Bring This Vision to Life

Get Involved:

Donate: Every contribution makes a difference. You can support the project at staraquacenter.org.
Volunteer: Join the STAR team for fundraising events and outreach efforts.
Raise Awareness: Follow STAR AquaCenter on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated and share the mission.

A Safer, Healthier Hamptons Starts Here

A public pool in Southampton would transform how our community learns, trains, heals, and connects. For children learning to swim, adults seeking year-round fitness, or seniors looking for therapeutic exercise — the STAR AquaCenter represents a lasting investment in health, safety, and community spirit.

Together, we can bring this vision to life.

Visit staraquacenter.org to donate, volunteer, or learn more today.