Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool Rehabilitation Project Update

Jan./Feb. 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

• 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

• Repairs to the rotunda entry columns have been completed.
• The HVAC system installation is complete.
• Concrete slab in women’s dressing and shower area has been installed.

Work In Progress

• Repairs to the masonry wall and construction of the new glazed brick wall.
• Window restoration.
• Repairs have begun on the Spectator Gallery column bases.

Planned Work

• Transition to permanent power is pending completed inspections.
• Re-installation of salvaged brick pavers in the dressing and shower areas will begin soon.

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Figure 1 – Repairs to the exterior rotunda columns have been completed.

 

Figure 2 – Repairs have begun on the steel bay at the back of the main rotunda 
area.

 

Figure 3 – The priming of the west exhibit ceiling for paint preparation has been completed.

Figure 4 – New concrete slab in the women’s dressing and shower area.

 

Figure 5 – Ongoing masonry work and concrete repair in men’s dressing and shower area.

 

Figure 6 – Restoration of rotunda windows.

 

 

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