Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool Rehabilitation Project Update
April 2025
Substantial completion of construction is anticipated 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.
Work In Progress
- Installation of glazed brick masonry.
- Canopy repairs.
- Security pathway rough-in.
- Restoration and painting of the steel casement windows is nearing completion.
- Start of brick paver installation in the women’s dressing area.
- Windows, doors, and hardware installation.
- Lighting fixture installation.
Planned Work
- Art In Public Places lithomosaic artwork installation is scheduled for late April. A lithomosaic is an innovative mosaic technique combining concrete with mosaic tiling.
- Installation of asphalt in the parking lot.
- HVAC testing.
Figure 1 – Brick placed and ready for grouting in the men’s shower area.
Figure 2 – Rotunda roofing is complete and porch soffit is prepped for plaster.
Figure 3 – Spectator Gallery roof repairs are complete.
Figure 4 – Rotunda floor is polished and sealed.
Figure 5 – New glazed brick masonry walls for women’s showers installed.
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.
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
