Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool Rehabilitation Project Update

March 2025

 

Construction is expected to be substantially completed this summer. As with any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible – dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and weather conditions.

 

Announcements

• Barton Springs Pool is closed for its annual spring cleaning March 1-14, 2025. Admission will be charged upon re-opening on March 15, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Plan your visit to the pool here.
• While the bathhouse is closed during construction, Barton Springs Pool remains open. The north entrance to Barton Springs Pool has been relocated to the west end of the bathhouse, near the temporary restroom and shower trailers.
• The south side entrance to Barton Springs Pool and parking lot at Azie Morton Drive will remain unchanged throughout the construction phase.
• Pool tickets may be purchased online, on-site with credit cards from ticket kiosks located near the Zilker Café, or with cash directly at the Zilker Café. 
• Entry for Early Swim (swim at your own risk) is available at the south entrance on Azie Morton Drive, from 5 to 8 a.m., and at the north entrance from 7:30 to 8 a.m.

 

Current Project Phase: Construction

Completed Tasks

• The steel column bases have been repaired at the Spectator Gallery.
• Roof replacement at the Spectator Gallery has been completed.
• Mechanical units and ductwork have been completed in the rooms on the east and west sides of the rotunda.
• Rotunda windows have been cleaned and buffed.

Work In Progress

• The installation of plumbing piping and insulation is in progress.
• The installation of new glazed brick walls is ongoing in the men's and women's shower rooms.
• Steel door frame installation continues throughout.
• Restoration and painting of the steel casement windows is nearing completion.
• The installation of an electrical disconnect near the transformer is in progress.

Planned Work

• Insulation of the ductwork.
• Inspection and testing of the mechanical system.
• Pouring concrete roofs for lifeguard office and family restrooms.

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Figure 1 – Men's west shower floor being prepared for brick paving installation.

 

Figure 2 – Salvaged brick pavers clean and prepped for re-installation.

 

Figure 3 – Completion of ductwork installation in the rooms on the east and west sides of the rotunda.

Figure 4 – Ongoing installation of new glazed brick wall in the west men's shower room.

 

Figure 5 – New glazed brick wall construction ongoing in women’s dressing and shower area.

 

 

Reminder:

During the Bathhouse Rehabilitation project, Barton Springs Pool will maintain its regular schedule and remain open to swimmers. However, William Barton Drive, leading to the parking lot adjacent to the Bathhouse, will be closed to public parking and drop-offs during construction. Parking in the other lots at Zilker Park will remain open, with wayfinding signage guiding pedestrians to the north side pool entrance.

 

Pedestrian access routes through the construction site will be adjusted as work progresses. Public ADA-accessible parking and emergency vehicle access will be available throughout the construction period. The south side pool entry gate and parking lot at Azie Morton will remain unchanged throughout this time.

 

Bathhouse Renamed:

On April 4, 2024, an Austin City Council resolution renamed the Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool in honor of Joan Means Khabele for her contributions and activism which led to the integration of the pool. 

 

To learn more about Joan Means Khabele, please visit the Parks and Recreation Department's blogpost.

 

Stay informed on the rehabilitation project on our project webpage.

 

Questions or concerns should be directed to:

 

Paul Mendoza, AIA, Project Manager

Capital Delivery Services

Paul.Mendoza@austintexas.gov

512-974-1272

 

Ali Petersen, RID, Project Manager

Capital Delivery Services

Alison.Petersen@austintexas.gov

512-974-7830

 

Ellen Colfax, RA, Project Manager

Parks and Recreation Department

Ellen.Colfax@austintexas.gov

512-974-9472