Pay will increase for lifeguards at state-run pools, beaches and campgrounds in New York for lifeguards in order to address a summertime shortage, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office announced Wednesday.

Pay for lifeguards at upstate facilities will increase from $14.95 to $20 an hour. Downstate, pay will rise for lifeguards from $18.15 to $22 per hour.

Lifeguards have been in high demand this summer at public and private facilities as employers struggle to fill open positions.

"All New Yorkers deserve the opportunity to safely enjoy our public beaches and pools this summer," Hochul said. "With a lifeguard shortage threatening access to swimming facilities, we are aggressively recruiting more lifeguards to ensure safe access to outdoor recreation during the summer months."

Hourly pay increases will also increase for lifeguards that have more than two seasons of experience, increasing from 5% to 30%, depending on the location and experience.

There are about 70 pools and beaches at state parks and 17 beaches with more than 40 lifeguards operated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

At the same time, the state will launch a recruitment effort to hire more lifeguards as the summer season begins.