AUSTIN, Texas — Barton Springs Pool is expected to remain closed into late March as crews work to remove aging infrastructure.
The pool has been closed since Feb. 23 and was originally set to open March 13. According to the City of Austin, it’s now tentatively set to reopen March 21, though the weather could cause further delays.
The reason for the delay is that “crews encountered conditions that require additional time and specialized equipment to safely complete underwater diver work. Diver and staff safety are a top priority in completing the project work,” a statement from the city says.
Past flood events have damaged the pool’s two bypass skimmers — installed in the 1940s and 1970s, respectively — threatening the pool’s endangered salamander habitat and guest safety.
As the project continues, crews are maintaining protections for the salamanders within the pool, the city says.
“Staff and contractors continue to work diligently to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible,” a statement from the city says.