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Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse construction makes waves at Barton Springs Pool

Let’s take a look at what still needs to be done before the project’s estimated completion in summer 2025.

A construction site in front of a mid-century modern building with stone walls and a circular glass entrance. A small green excavator is parked in front of the building, surrounded by piles of rubble and construction materials. An orange traffic cone and a portable handwashing station are visible in the foreground, along with a large tree providing some shade to the area.

Work on the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse began in June 2024.

Photo by ATXtoday

If you’ve visited Barton Springs Pool this summer, you know things look at a little different on the north side of the historic swimming hole. The pool’s bathhouse closed for construction in early June and won’t reopen until summer 2025.

Due to its closure, swimmers who enter the area must head to the west end of the Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse (next to temporary restrooms and shower trailers) to avoid construction zones.

So, what’s been done since the shutdown?

Let’s dive in

In the first month of work, crews completed new fire lanes, sidewalks, and ADA parking. Construction within the bathhouse began, which included harvesting brick pavers from the original building and removing lead-based paint and asbestos.

Throughout July, demolition ensued on the men’s and women’s shower and dressing areas, the rotunda, and the Beverly Sheffield Education Center - Splash! Exhibit Area.

According to the latest update, much of the demolition is complete. Upcoming projects include installing water, wastewater, and electrical lines in the building, plus adding a concrete slab in the men’s shower and dressing room courtyard.

Throughout the project, traffic is limited on William Barton Drive. Early swim entry is open from 5-8 a.m. at the south entrance on Azie Morton Drive, but only from 7:30-8 a.m. at the north entrance.

You can stay up to date with monthly community update newsletters from project leaders.

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