Shawmut Design and Construction advances expansion of Princeton National Rowing Association’s Caspersen Rowing Center

West Windsor, NJ Shawmut Design and Construction has partnered with the Princeton National Rowing Association (PNRA) on the expansion of the Finn M. W. Caspersen Rowing Center at Mercer Lake. The project represents a significant investment in one of the country’s premier rowing venues, further strengthening its role as both a community resource and a national training destination for the sport.

Developed in collaboration with PNRA, USRowing, Studio Hillier, Mercer County and project management partner Pandion Development Management, the expansion is designed to support athletes of every level — from local youth and masters programs to members of the U.S. National and Olympic Team. Once complete, the enhanced facility will provide modern spaces which foster training, recovery, education, and community engagement while preserving the legacy of one of America’s most respected rowing centers.

The new addition will feature expanded boat storage, a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning center, dedicated ergometer training areas, recovery and locker facilities, athlete support spaces, meeting rooms, and improved amenities that create a world-class environment for rowing excellence. The facility is being designed to serve the evolving needs of elite competitors while also welcoming the thousands of athletes and community members who utilize Mercer Lake each year.

As construction manager, Shawmut is leading the delivery of a highly collaborative project which combines thoughtful planning, quality craftsmanship, and careful coordination with the active rowing campus. Working alongside the owner, design team, and project partners, Shawmut is helping bring a vision to life — balancing architectural excellence with the functional requirements of a high-performance athletic facility.

The Caspersen Rowing Center has long been recognized as one of the nation’s premier rowing venues, hosting Olympic Trials, National Team selection events, and major national and international regattas. The facility is owned by Mercer County and managed under an operating agreement with PNRA and the other users of the center, Hun School, Lawrenceville School, Peddie School and USRowing. The expansion reinforces PNRA’s mission of creating opportunities for rowers of all ages and abilities while ensuring that Mercer Lake remains a premier destination for competition and athlete development for generations to come.

As construction continues to make significant progress, PNRA provides regular updates documenting the transformation of the facility and the team looks forward to completion of the project in fall 2026. Once completed, the Caspersen Rowing Center will be an asset for Mercer County and stand as a lasting investment in the future of American rowing — one which reflects the shared commitment of PNRA, USRowing, Shawmut, and the entire project team to delivering a world-class home for the sport.