Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool Rehabilitation Project Update
September 2024
Please see the information below for the latest updates on progress, photos, and announcements. Construction is expected to be substantially completed in the Spring of 2025.
Please note that as with any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible. All dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and the weather conditions.
Announcements
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The bathhouse closed for construction on June 6, 2024. As of June 21, 2024, the north entrance to Barton Springs Pool is relocated to the west end of the bathhouse, near the temporary restroom and shower trailers.
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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 5:00 am - 8:00 am, and at the north entrance from 7:30 am - 8:00 am.
Work In Progress
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Exterior masonry restoration - repointing damaged mortar joints, removing capstone and installing structural reinforcing at the top of the exterior masonry walls, and cleaning the masonry surfaces.
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Underground electrical work within the Rotunda and Exhibit Areas.
- Demolition work expected to be completed within a few weeks.
Planned Work
Figure 1 – Men’s Shower & Dressing Courtyard prepped and ready for installation of its concrete foundation.
Figure 2 – Men's Shower & Dressing Courtyard after installation of concrete foundation slab for brick pavers was completed.
Figure 3 – Women's Shower & Dressing Court prepping for new plumbing.
Figure 4 – Rotunda of Bathhouse in 1950s, note the porch canopy with a plaster ceiling and inset lighting.
Figure 5 - Rotunda canopy ceiling showing original wood blocking for plaster ceiling and framing for inset lighting, which will be restored.
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.
During the Austin City Limits Music Festival held October 4-6 and October 11-13, 2024 in Zilker Park:
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.
For more information on the renaming of the bathhouse, please visit the Barton Springs Renaming Proposal webpage.
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
