Barton Springs Pool is temporarily closed from February 23 through March 13, 2026 for infrastructure removal and maintenance. The City of Austin is removing portions of a decommissioned skimmer bypass system originally built in the 1940s. The larger 1975 bypass remains active and operational.
This is a preventative infrastructure project focused on safety, habitat protection, and long term maintenance.
TLDR
Closed: February 23 to March 13, 2026
Project: Removal of old 1940s skimmer bypass infrastructure
1975 bypass: Remains in service
Reason: Aging infrastructure undermined by flood events
Goal: Improve safety, reduce structural risk, protect habitat
Reopening: Expected mid March 2026
What Is the Skimmer Bypass?
A skimmer bypass is a system of pipes and channels designed to divert excess water away from the pool during high flow events.
Because Barton Springs is influenced by spring flow and Barton Creek flooding, infrastructure was built to manage surges and protect the swimming area from structural damage.
A Brief History of the Bypass Systems
1940s: Original Construction
The first skimmer bypass was constructed in the 1940s to help manage high water flow conditions. Over time, portions of this system were decommissioned but not fully removed.
Decades of flood events gradually undermined sections of the aging concrete infrastructure.
1975: Larger Replacement System
In 1975, a larger and more modern bypass system was built. This system replaced the functional role of the 1940s bypass and remains operational today.
The older infrastructure, however, remained underground and beneath portions of the pool structure.
Why Remove the 1940s Bypass Now?
City inspections determined that parts of the old bypass have become structurally unstable due to repeated flooding and erosion.
Key reasons for removal include:
Eliminating potential collapse risks
Reducing long term maintenance liabilities
Protecting sensitive aquatic habitat
Preventing emergency repairs in the future
Because the 1940s system is no longer active, removal is more appropriate than rehabilitation.
The project is being coordinated with environmental oversight due to endangered species within the springs ecosystem, including the federally protected Barton Springs salamander.
Timeline: Skimmer Bypass Development
1940s
Original skimmer bypass constructed to manage high flow conditions.
1975
Larger bypass system built and becomes the active diversion structure.
1990s to 2020s
Flooding and erosion undermine portions of the decommissioned 1940s system.
February 23 to March 13, 2026
Temporary closure to remove unstable 1940s infrastructure and complete related maintenance.
What Work Is Being Completed During the Closure?
During the closure window, crews are:
Removing portions of the decommissioned 1940s bypass
Stabilizing surrounding areas affected by erosion
Protecting spring flow and aquatic habitat during construction
Completing additional deferred maintenance
Late winter was selected to minimize impact before peak swim season.
FAQ: Barton Springs Pool Closure
Why is Barton Springs closed in early 2026?
The pool is closed to allow removal of aging 1940s skimmer bypass infrastructure that has been undermined by flood events and poses structural risk.
Is the pool being redesigned?
No. This project removes old infrastructure. The active 1975 bypass system remains in place, and normal pool operations are expected to resume after reopening.
Is the endangered salamander habitat affected?
The project includes environmental oversight and habitat protection measures due to the presence of endangered species in the springs ecosystem.
When will Barton Springs reopen?
The City expects the pool to reopen in mid March 2026, ahead of the busy spring and summer season.
This closure is a targeted infrastructure removal project, not an operational change. For regular swimmers, the long term impact should be improved safety and reduced structural risk while preserving one of Austin’s most important natural assets.