The poor water quality at several NYC beaches poses health risks to swimmers, including exposure to bacteria from untreated sewage, stormwater runoff, and animal waste. Beaches near combined sewer outflows are particularly affected, with contamination levels failing safety standards in nearly 40% of water samples at the worst sites. While some areas, like City Island, benefit from cleaner waters due to less development and local conservation efforts, the overall situation highlights the need for infrastructure improvements to protect public health.