Austinites should expect reopening delay at Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The city of Austin said there will be a delay in reopening the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs. However, the Barton Springs Pool will continue to stay open with its regular hours for community access throughout the construction period.  

While the project has shown great progress, the city said the delay could be related to “unknown, existing conditions and from limited availability of construction materials.” At this time, the project is anticipated to be completed and re-opened to the public in October 2025, the city said.

The city said that the north entrance to Barton Springs Pool has relocated to the west end of the bathhouse near the temporary restroom and shower trailers. The south side entrance to the pool and parking lot at Azie Morton Drive remain unchanged throughout this phase, the city added. 

Additionally, entry for early swimming 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.

The city has completed these tasks at the Bathhouse at Barton Springs, per the city: 

• Interior lighting installed 
• Striping of the east side parking lot 
• Fencing and gate installation 
• Landscaping and irrigation on the east side of the Bathhouse

Currently, the bathhouse still needs to complete interior painting; security system installation; commissioning of HVAC system; and masonry wall patching, according to the city. Lastly, the city plans to work on the final commissioning of the electrical and plumbing system, as well as exhibit displays and transaction desk installation.

Parking in the area while construction continues will be limited, the city said.

According to the city, William Barton Drive that leads to the parking lot near the bathhouse will be closed to the public and drop-offs. Additional parking in other lots at Zilker Park will remain open with signage to direct visitors to the north side pool entrance. 

Pedestrian access routes will be available through the construction site and will be adjusted as work progresses, the city said. Public ADA-accessible parking and emergency vehicle access will also be available throughout the construction period. Additionally, the city said that the south pool entry gate and parking lot at Azie Morton remain unchanged during this phase.

The city also recommended guests use the Zilker Loop to avoid parking problems.

Austin Parks and Recreation launched the Zilker Loop in May as a free service to transport visitors from a “less congested Stratford Parking lot to popular areas in the park including Zilker Playground, Barton Creek and Barton Springs Pool.”

Zilker Loop runs on weekends from noon to 6 p.m. through Sept. 1.