Troy Aquatic Center Closes for 2027 Season Amid $1 Million Repair Bill
City officials cite failing water lines and deferred maintenance for the outdoor pool shutdown, with a $15 million modernization cost under review.
By Renata Mehta ·
The Troy Family Aquatic Center will not open its gates for the summer of 2027 due to critical infrastructure failures and the high cost of necessary repairs. The outdoor facility, which has served the community since 1991, faces a shutdown that leaves residents without a local destination for swimming and recreation next season. City leaders stated that the closure is required to address breaks and leaks in the water system that caused unsustainable water loss during the previous summer.
City officials estimate that at least $1 million in repairs is needed to reopen the aquatic center in 2028. This figure covers the immediate work required to make the facility operational again after temporary fixes allowed it to stay open through the end of the current season. The cost stems from aging water lines that have failed to maintain proper pressure and volume. Without these repairs, the pool cannot safely function for public use.
Troy Communications Director Courtney Flynn described the decision as difficult but necessary. She noted that the facility has not received substantial investment to extend its lifespan since opening in 1991. Flynn indicated that a more comprehensive modernization project to secure the facility’s long-term viability would cost approximately $15 million. This larger figure includes upgrades beyond simple repairs that would allow the center to operate for many more years.
Funding for these projects would come from Troy’s capital fund, a pool of money also used for road improvements, fire trucks, and other city facility upgrades. Flynn acknowledged that these capital funds face competing priorities. The city is currently exploring all options, including potential community partnerships, to determine what is financially feasible. Officials are weighing the immediate repair costs against the long-term investment needed for modernization.
For local families, the closure disrupts a multigenerational tradition. Michele Maleszyk, a Troy resident, recalled obtaining a membership when the pool first opened. She shared that the facility has been a constant part of her childhood and later her children’s summers. Her daughter particularly enjoys the water slides, which Maleszyk said are a highlight of their visits. The affordability of the aquatic center also made it a vital resource for budget-conscious families.
Maleszyk stated that the annual family membership cost was around $200. She emphasized that this price point made the pool an accessible option for many residents seeking summer activities. The facility hosts summer camps and community programs in addition to offering open swim times. The loss of this specific outdoor experience is distinct from the city’s indoor pool, which remains open at the Troy Community Center. Residents noted that the indoor facility does not fully replace the outdoor aquatic center’s amenities and atmosphere.
Karen Trapp, another Troy resident, expressed sadness over the announcement but recognized the physical state of the building. She remembered taking her children swimming at the site and acknowledged that the facility is old and requires fixing. The city is expected to discuss the aquatic center’s future during a City Council meeting on Monday. Officials said they will provide additional updates as they make decisions regarding repairs or potential partnerships.
