Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool Rehabilitation Project Update
July 2025
The Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse Rehabilitation at Barton Springs is showing great progress but will be delayed in reopening. This delay does not affect community access to the pool. The pool has been open throughout construction. The schedule saw delays from additional scope related to unknown, existing conditions and from limited availability of construction materials.
A great amount of care is being taken with the rehabilitation of this much-loved community space. Our teams are diligently developing a space that will serve Austin for generations to come.
Currently, the project is anticipated to reach substantial completion and re-open to the public in October 2025.
Reminders:
- 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 Cafe, or with cash directly at the Zilker Cafe.
- Entry for Early Swin (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.
Work In Progress:
- Interior painting.
- Security system installation.
- Commissioning of HVAC system.
- Masonry wall patching.
Planned Work:
- Final commissioning of the electrical and plumbing system.
- Exhibit displays and transaction desk installation.
Fencing and gate installation complete on east side.
Landscaping and plant work completed in women’s shower area.
Art In Public Places flooring artwork in the exhibit area is complete.
The renovation of the Bathhouse's main entrance is nearing completion.
Parking:
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.
Taking the Zilker Loop:
Sick of circling Zilker in your car on busy weekends and holidays? Take the free Zilker Loop! Austin Parks and Recreation launched the free Zilker Loop — a seasonal shuttle service that makes it easier to reach popular spots in Zilker Park.
The Zilker Loop runs Saturdays, Sundays and holidays every 15 to 20 minutes from 12 to 6 p.m., through September 1. The first two hours of parking fees in the Stratford Lot can be waived using a code in the parking app. Weekend and holiday parking at Zilker Park cost $3 per hour.
Visit AustinTexas.gov/Zilker for more information.
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.
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
