Latest Update
The renovations are substantially complete, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 30.
Previous Updates
Background
On July 28, 1956, the Northwest Pool and Bathhouse opened to the public. The pool and bathhouse cost $200,000 to construct and were dedicated with great fanfare on August 9, 1956. The pool was the first 50-meter regulation Olympic-sized pool in Austin, which allowed the city to qualify for national swimming meets. The Northwest Park Bathhouse was a modern-design circular bathhouse with open-air dressing rooms. Also built-in 1956, the building is eligible to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Northwest Park, which hosts the aquatic facility, proved to be extremely popular. In its first full month of operation in August 1956, attendance at the new Olympic-size pool eclipsed that of Barton Springs. The name of the park and pool was later changed to honor former Austin Parks and Recreation Director Beverly S. Sheffield.
Project Description
The 2018 Aquatic Master Plan calls for Sheffield Northwest Pool to be a regional aquatic center maintaining the 50-meter lanes. The Regional Aquatic Center classification identifies the following possible characteristics and amenities: a 50-meter lap lane pool, an aerobic pool, a zero-entry toddler pool, a shade structure, a spray ground feature, a diving board, family restrooms, deck space, and aquatic office space.
The project will also participate in the City of Austin Art in Public Places (AIPP) program, which will commission a permanent art installation at the pool facility.
Anticipated TimelineSummer 2022: Community EngagementWinter 2025: Construction Start (In Progress)Spring 2026: Construction EndFinal Concept
The final concept includes the following elements:
Maintaining the historical character of the siteA toddler pool with zero-depth entryPool shade – both shade structures and treesRenovated changing rooms and restroomsAn accessible entrance with new fence and entry gatesNew pool mechanical system with aerationNew service driveStepped entry into the poolMaintaining the lap lanes for variation and different swimming styles (with backstroke flags)
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Initial ConceptsInitial Concept A
Full Site
Northern Half:
Initial Concept B
Full Site
Northern Section
Community Engagement
The community engagement process for the renovation project began during the 2022 swim season. The community feedback is shared below.
Final Concept Survey: Closed October 29, 2022Community Engagement Meeting #2: September 28, 2022, 7 to 8 p.m.Community Survey #2: Closed July 25Community Meeting #1: Tuesday, June 28, 2022, 7 p.m.
In-person at Northwest Recreation Center, 2913 Northland Dr., Austin, TX 78757Community Survey #1:Closed June 1, 2022Funding and Resources
This project is funded through the 2018 GO Bond.
Contact Information
For questions or concerns, please contact D’Anne Williams, Austin Parks and Recreation Project Manager, by email or at 512-974-9456.