ALBANY COUNTY — The pool on the former College of Saint Rose campus is now open for public use, Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy announced on Jan. 8.

Those wishing to use the pool have to register for classes or for open lap swimming.

The pool is located at 420 Western Avenue, formerly the Event and Athletics Center — one of five Saint Rose properties the county is buying for $6 million.

The century-old college, facing financial hardship, closed in the summer of 2024. The Pine Hills Land Authority, backed by Albany County, then won the bid to buy the 48-acre campus for $35 million.

“This pool is more than just a facility; it’s a symbol of renewal for our community,” said McCoy in a release announcing the opening

“For years,” he went on, “it sat unused and neglected, but thanks to the hard work of our team, families, students, and neighbors can now enjoy a safe and welcoming place to swim and stay active.”

The phased reopening will include:

— Open lap swims in the evenings, starting Jan. 12,  on Monday and Wednesday from 5:30 to 9 p.m.;

— Open lap swims in the morning, starting Jan. 26, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 to 10 a.m.;

— Aqua zumba, running from Jan. 16 to March 6, on Friday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.; and

— Swim lessons, running from Jan. 27 to March 3, on Tuesday and Thursday at five different levels: from 1:30 to 2 p.m. for infants with parents; from 4 to 4:30 p.m. for Level 1 Water Exploration; from 4:30 to 5 p.m. for Level 2 Primary Skills, and from 5 to 5:45 p.m. Level 3 and 4 Stroke Development.

For more information on pool hours, programs, and registration, residents can visit https://albapool at College of Saint Rosenycounty.recdesk.com/ or call 518-655-7948.