Notown, Troy, VA

Notown Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Notown is a historic and densely populated neighborhood located on the eastern edge of downtown Troy, New York. It is broadly bounded by the Hudson River to the west, the Poestenkill Gorge to the north, and Oakwood Avenue to the east and south. The neighborhood's name is a colloquialism derived from its location "north of downtown," and it has long served as a residential gateway to the city's central business district and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) campus perched on the hill above.

The area's character is defined by its steep, winding streets, dramatic topography, and a remarkable collection of 19th-century architecture, ranging from grand Italianate and Second Empire homes to more modest brick rowhouses and multi-family units. Historically, Notown was home to a mix of skilled laborers, shopkeepers, and professionals who worked in Troy's booming iron and textile industries. Today, it retains a vibrant, walkable, and eclectic urban feel, acting as a key residential corridor between downtown's revival and the academic energy of RPI.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Notown is predominantly historic, featuring a mix of large, single-family Victorian homes, many converted into multi-unit apartments, alongside sturdy brick duplexes and smaller rowhouses. Properties often boast intricate architectural details, but can also require significant maintenance and updating. The neighborhood offers some of Troy's most dramatic views of the Hudson River and downtown, which is reflected in its varied property values.

Price ranges are wide, from more affordable apartments and condominium conversions in larger homes to fully restored single-family residences commanding premium prices. The market is a dynamic mix of owner-occupants and investors, with a high proportion of rental units catering to RPI graduate students, young professionals, and artists. Recent trends show steady interest due to the neighborhood's proximity to downtown amenities, leading to gradual renovation and increased property values, though it remains more accessible than some of Troy's pricier historic districts.

Schools & Education

Notown is served by the Enlarged City School District of Troy. The neighborhood itself is home to School 14, a public elementary school located on Oakwood Avenue. For higher grades, students typically attend Troy Middle School and Troy High School. The district faces many of the challenges common to urban public school systems, but it offers a range of programs and has dedicated community support.

The most dominant educational institution influencing Notown is Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. The university's campus borders the neighborhood to the east and north, and its presence is deeply felt. Many graduate students, faculty, and staff reside in Notown, creating a direct link to the university's academic and cultural resources. Additionally, the neighborhood is within close proximity to several private and parochial school options in the broader Troy area.

Parks & Recreation

Notown's primary green space is the stunning Prospect Park, a 90-acre Olmsted-designed park that sits on the ridge above the neighborhood. While the park's main entrance is off Congress Street, its woodlands and trails are accessible from Notown's eastern edges, offering hiking, a public swimming pool, tennis courts, and the iconic "Uncle Sam" grave site. The park provides a crucial recreational lung and stunning overlooks of the city and river.

Within the neighborhood's tighter street grid, smaller pocket parks and community gardens provide local gathering spots. The Poestenkill Gorge, which forms the northern boundary, offers dramatic natural scenery and walking paths along its rim. The Hudson Riverfront, including the nearby Riverfront Park and Troy Marina, is a short walk downhill, providing opportunities for walking, biking, fishing, and seasonal events, connecting Notown residents directly to Troy's waterfront revitalization efforts.

Local Dining & Shopping

Notown benefits immensely from its adjacency to downtown Troy, placing residents within easy walking distance of the city's celebrated restaurant and boutique scene on River Street and Broadway. However, the neighborhood itself hosts several cherished local establishments. Key commercial corridors along Congress Street, 5th Avenue, and Hoosick Street offer a range of practical services, ethnic eateries, corner markets, and pubs that cater to daily needs.

Notable neighborhood staples include classic diners, pizzerias, and family-owned convenience stores. For full-service grocery shopping, residents typically travel to nearby markets on Hoosick Street or into downtown. The real draw is the eclectic mix of downtown options just minutes away—from specialty coffee shops and farm-to-table restaurants to antique stores, bookshops, and the famous Troy Waterfront Farmers Market, making Notown a perfect residential base for urban explorers.

Who Lives Here

Notown attracts a diverse and dynamic population that values urban living, historic character, and proximity to culture. A significant portion of residents are RPI graduate students, researchers, and young faculty drawn by the walkable commute and relatively affordable historic housing. They are joined by a growing number of young professionals, artists, and creatives who contribute to the neighborhood's energetic and slightly countercultural vibe.

The community is a blend of long-term Troy residents, who have deep roots in the area, and newer transplants revitalizing the housing stock. This creates a neighborhood with a strong sense of authenticity and unpretentious character. Residents are typically engaged, value the architectural heritage, and appreciate the ability to live in a quiet, residential-feeling neighborhood while being just steps from the bustling activity of downtown Troy's remarkable revival.

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