[Lee Stewart]

This project, dubbed Plus Pool for its shape, has been in the works since 2010 when two design firms collaborated on its design. Consultations with engineers and naval architects furthered the project, as did backing from celebrities like Neil Patrick Harris and Kanye West. When done, the pool will float on an "island" on New York's East River. "Filtration membranes" will keep the water safe for swimming while also cleaning the river surrounding it — organizers say the pool will clean 600,000 gallons of river water daily. Recently given the green light by New York's Economic Development Corporation, its developer, PlayLab, can now proceed with completing the project.