New York Construction Report staff writer
Construction is underway on the Knick Aquatic Center, a long-anticipated community facility at Knickerbacker Park that city officials say will deliver lasting benefits to families and youth in North Central Troy.
“For far too long, the Burgh was overlooked and forgotten — but that ends here,” said Mayor Carmella Mantello during the groundbreaking ceremony. “Today, we proudly deliver on a promise to revitalize this park, restore access to recreational resources, and invest in our neighborhoods like never before.”
The new aquatic facility is designed as a modern, accessible destination for residents citywide and builds on the recent reopening of the Knick Ice Rink in January 2025. Together, the two facilities aim to transform the park into a year-round hub for recreation and community gathering.
The project is part of the Mantello administration’s broader commitment to reinvesting in public infrastructure, expanding recreational opportunities, and enhancing quality of life for Troy’s youth and families.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with a grand opening planned for summer 2026.
Funding for the project includes support from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the New York State NY SWIMS Program. Mantello credited Congressman Paul Tonko, Governor Kathy Hochul, and Assemblymember John McDonald for helping secure financial backing for the initiative.
The mayor also thanked the city’s Planning and Economic Development team, city engineer, and Bill Roehr for their work in grant writing and project coordination.
“The Knick Aquatic Center will not only provide a safe, fun place for our families to gather and cool off, it symbolizes what’s possible when we come together with a shared vision and a commitment to progress,” Mantello said.
The aquatic center is one of several projects underway as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to rebuild infrastructure and invest in high-quality public amenities across all neighborhoods.
