Adirondack Aquatic Center (AAC) has received its first $1 million pledge from an anonymous donor, marking the largest contribution to date toward the proposed $22 million, 80,000-square-foot facility.
A local group plans to build such a center along the health and wellness corridor located off of Route 67 in Malta. The property is located across the street from Malta Urgent Care.
“This pledge brings us closer to realizing our dream—to build a state-of-the-art aquatic facility that community members and visitors can utilize for years to come for recreational and wellness, therapeutic and competitive training purposes,” said Kara Haraden, president of the AAC board of directors.
“This $1 million donation will make a big splash in the efforts to build the Adirondack Aquatic Center and bring all of the positive economic impacts it would entail to the town of Malta and to the place where all good things emanate, the 49th State Senate District,” said state Sen. Jim Tedisco.
AAC representatives said an official fundraising campaign will kick off in 2018. The board of directors is seeking both public and private sector funds.
“This facility will provide a substantial economic benefit to Saratoga County and the entire region,” said Dennis A. Brobston, president, Saratoga Economic Development Corp. “Aquatic competitions and events will bring an estimated $20 to $30 million to the area annually.”
While the intent is to underwrite the project’s cost using private money, financial support from various state and local grant programs is also being sought and will be crucial toward leveraging additional private sector investment, the group said.
The multi-use, year-round facility will hold four pools, including a 50-meter Olympic-size pool, of varying lengths, depths and temperatures for diverse swim programs such swimming lessons, exercise and rehabilitation, as well as training and competition. Plans also include ample spectator seating, classroom areas, meeting rooms, aquatic-focused exercise and weight room, studio/multi-purpose area, pro shop, concessions area and locker rooms.
“Sports tourism is an incredibly promising market right now and we need to be at the forefront of this innovative curve,” said state Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner. “The Adirondack Aquatic Center truly will be a flagship facility that will become central to our community and serve as a premiere aquatics center in New York state.”
“As the Capital Region and Tech Valley continue to evolve, an aquatic center will further enhance our standing as a recreational and family-friendly destination,” said Andrew Kennedy, president and CEO of the Center for Economic Growth. “A facility of this size and with this variety of offerings would be unique to upstate and help put us on the map in the aquatic community.”
AAC was founded to fill a long-term need for year-round aquatic services that address the health, wellness, recreation, safety, competition and training needs of the local residents, communities and organizations, the group said. To learn more, visit adirondackaquaticcenter.org.