per City Of Austin, Barton Springs Pool Bathhouse Construction Improvement project, nearing completion Spring 2026

 







Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool Rehabilitation

December 2025 Project Update

Construction work is expected to be completed in Spring 2026. As with any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible and dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and weather conditions.

Announcements

  • Joan Means Khabele Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool partially reopened on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

  • The partial reopening includes the park and pool side restrooms, the pool side shower, the dressing spaces within the building, the lifeguard office, first aid area, breakroom and locker room. Entry to the pool has moved to the east side of the building. 

  • The front parking lot has fully reopened, except a small area on the west side that remains fenced off for ongoing construction work.

  • The building’s main entrance at the rotunda and the west side remain closed to the public for construction.


Completed Tasks 

  • Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) flush out for lifeguard spaces including office, breakroom and locker room
  • Removal of temporary public restroom/shower trailers and lifeguard trailers
  • Installation of acrylic lettering signage above the rear rotunda historic entrance
  • Installation of vinyl lettering on the entrance doors to the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center

Work In Progress 

  • Testing and adjusting of HVAC system
  • Light control testing and adjustments
  • Exhibit paneling installation in the east room of the exhibit area
  • Installation of the exit turnstile, drinking fountain, bike racks, ticket kiosks and signage at the west side pool entrance

Planned Work

  • Security system installation at the west gate
  • Installation of permanent irrigation at the front of building
  • Exhibit displays and transaction desk installation


East side women’s dressing and shower area is complete and open for public use


West side men’s dressing and shower area is complete and open for public use


New vinyl lettering on the entrance doors to the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center


Trailer has been removed, leaving the space open for final west entry site work


Installation of paneling in the east room of the exhibit area


New acrylic lettering signage installed above the rear rotunda historic entrance

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 Austin Parks and Recreation's blog.

Questions or concerns should be directed to:

Paul Mendoza, AIA, Project Manager
Austin Capital Delivery Services
Paul.Mendoza@AustinTexas.gov
512-974-1272

Ellen Colfax, RA, Project Manager

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