Community Corner

'Nassau Swim Club Is Worth Saving,' Princeton Petition Says

Princeton University, which owns the pool's property, is planning to terminate the swim club's lease in April.

PRINCETON, NJ — Time is ticking to save the Nassau Swim Club(NSC) and the community is being called to help.

"NSC is a beloved summertime tradition for many people and its loss will be felt deeply, in Princeton and beyond," according to the NSC.

A petition was launched by the NSC after Princeton University, which owns the pool's property, made plans to terminate NSC's lease in April. This would cause the club to permanently close.

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"We acknowledge that the closure of the Nassau Swim Club will be a disappointment to many of the Club members, and we appreciate the recent efforts of the current board to garner increased volunteer and financial assistance," said Princeton University Director of Media Relations Jennifer Morrill.

The University shared the news with the Club in October 2023, said Morrill.

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"The University will remove the pool and related structures, but does not have other immediate plans for use of the land at this time," said Morrill.

The club has been located at 2 Springdale Road in Princeton for more than 50 years and offers a 6-lane 25-yard swimming pool, dive well, baby pool, all-day kids program and swim/dive teams.

Over the years, the club has collected members from the wider community, as other community pools and swim/dive teams have shuttered in recent years.

"This trend is alarming. Community pools are vital in keeping our towns healthy and connected. Access to outdoor pools, in particular, is important for mental health and well-being, especially during summer heat waves. And lastly, fewer pools means fewer opportunities for kids to learn to swim or join a summer swim/dive team," according to the club.

The club said they must raise $50,000 for needed pool repairs and to show a good faith effort to the University. To make a pledge use this Pledge Form.

They are also asking community members to sign their petition to send "a clear message to Princeton University that Nassau Swim Club is an important community asset and well worth saving."

To learn more or to sign the petition click here.

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