Barton Springs Pool to Close for Maintenance

Closure scheduled from February 23 to March 13 to remove old infrastructure

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Barton Springs Pool in Austin, Texas will be closed from February 23 through March 13 for a maintenance project. City crews will remove sections of an old skimmer bypass system that was part of the pool's outdated infrastructure, which poses safety and environmental risks. Deferred maintenance inside the pool will also be addressed during the closure.

Why it matters

Barton Springs Pool is an iconic natural swimming pool in Austin that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The maintenance work is necessary to address aging infrastructure and safety concerns, while also protecting the endangered Barton Springs salamander that lives in the habitat surrounding the pool.

The details

The old skimmer bypass system was originally used to suck water through the filtration system, but was decommissioned back in the 1940s. Crews will remove sections of this outdated system, which officials say poses safety and environmental risks. In addition to the infrastructure work, the closure will also allow for deferred maintenance inside the pool itself.

  • Barton Springs Pool will be closed from February 23 through March 13, 2026.
  • The maintenance work is scheduled to be completed by March 13, 2026.

The players

Austin Watershed Protection

The city department responsible for overseeing the maintenance and conservation of Barton Springs Pool, including monitoring activities to protect the endangered Barton Springs salamander.

Barton Springs Pool

An iconic natural swimming pool in Austin, Texas that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

After the maintenance work is completed, Barton Springs Pool is expected to reopen to the public on March 14, 2026.

The takeaway

The temporary closure of Barton Springs Pool is necessary to address aging infrastructure and safety concerns, while also protecting the endangered species that call the surrounding habitat home. This maintenance project will help ensure the long-term viability and enjoyment of this beloved Austin landmark.