Lubbock Residents Lament Closure of City Pools for 2026 Season

Community members express disappointment over high maintenance costs leading to pool shutdowns.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An impressionistic, blurred photograph of a summer pool scene with children playing and families relaxing, conveying the sense of loss and nostalgia felt by the community over the pool closures.The closure of Lubbock's community pools leaves many residents, especially families and youth, without access to affordable summer recreation.Lubbock Today

The City of Lubbock has confirmed that all community pools will remain closed for the 2026 summer season due to the high costs of maintenance and repairs. This decision has sparked backlash from Lubbock residents, who feel the city is not listening to their concerns about the lack of affordable, family-friendly activities, especially for low-income families and older adults.

Why it matters

The closure of the city's pools is seen as a major loss for the community, particularly for young people, families, and the elderly who relied on the pools as a source of recreation, exercise, and social connection. Residents argue the decision highlights a broader lack of affordable, inclusive public amenities in Lubbock.

The details

The city cited the high costs of maintaining and repairing the aging pool infrastructure as the primary reason for the closures. Many residents expressed disappointment, noting the pools provided an important outlet, especially for children and teens who now have fewer options for free, safe activities. Some residents suggested an aquatic center funded by a 'Quality of Life' bond could be a solution, but were concerned about potential high membership costs pricing out lower-income families.

  • The City of Lubbock confirmed the pool closures in April 2026 for the upcoming summer season.

The players

George Hartfield

A Lubbock resident who is saddened by the lack of options for local youth.

Jennifer Castillo

A Lubbock resident who has many fond memories of the city's now-closed pools.

Winter McGinty

A Lubbock resident who feels the city is not listening to community concerns about the pool closures.

Jeremiah Quick

A Lubbock resident who believes the city's splashpads are not an adequate replacement for full-size pools.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's disheartening because I see a lot of these kids when they pass by with nowhere to go and I hear the stories.”

— George Hartfield, Lubbock resident

“It broke their heart when they heard Clapp Pool closed permanently, 'I have so many memories from many pools here in town.'”

— Jennifer Castillo, Lubbock resident

“It should be age inclusive, because how is an older lady going to just go really enjoy herself at a splash pad, especially if she has limitations.”

— Winter McGinty, Lubbock resident

“You know I mean they're doable, but only for a certain period of time. I mean, after a while it gets boring for them because it's the same thing over and over.”

— Jeremiah Quick, Lubbock resident

“The city doesn't care, and the community has to understand that it's not the city, it's us as the people. We have to understand the power that we hold.”

— George Hartfield, Lubbock resident

What’s next

The city is exploring the possibility of funding an aquatic center through a 'Quality of Life' bond, but the cost and accessibility of such a facility remains a concern for some residents.

The takeaway

The closure of Lubbock's community pools highlights the need for the city to invest in more affordable, inclusive public amenities that cater to residents of all ages and income levels. The community's passionate response underscores their desire for spaces that foster recreation, social connection, and a better quality of life.