AUSTIN, Texas — Austinites who are used to taking an early morning dip in Barton Springs Pool will have to keep their routine on pause for now, as the pool remains closed for repairs. But the city is offering an alternative.
The city of Austin said Tuesday that Barton Springs remains closed as crews work to address two large holes that have formed in an abandoned skimmer pipe believed to be around 80 years old. Over Labor Day weekend, city staff worked to temporarily reduce water loss at the pool, but departments are now working to come up with a more permanent solution.
"Pool visitor safety is a top priority for the City, and the damages created conditions that pose a significant safety risk, up to and including loss of life," the city said. "City engineering staff are working to develop a long-term solution that accounts for environmental issues, protection of endangered species, as well as public safety."
While repairs are underway, Barton Springs will remain closed for at least the next several weeks. The city said timelines could be adjusted depending on how conditions evolve during the repair process.
In the meantime, Deep Eddy Pool will open daily at 6 a.m. – two hours earlier than normal – to accommodate early swimmers while Barton Springs is closed.
The city also noted that visitors to the area below Barton Springs Pool dam, known as "Barking Springs," should avoid cordoned-off areas and be aware that crews need additional space to make repairs.
"Barton Springs Pool is Austin's crown jewel and we want nothing more than to make the repairs quickly and safely," Interim Parks and Recreation Department Director Angela Means said. "As we learn more about the timeline for repairs, we'll keep all residents up to date."