Barton Springs Pool 

If you have been following these project updates, you know that we have been concentrating on installing temporary electric service. The electric service and other preparatory work is almost complete, and we are ready to begin the repairs to the Barton Springs bypass tunnel. As previously announced, work will start in the tunnel sections adjacent to the shallow end of the pool.

Over the next couple of days, please expect to see us fencing off part of the grounds near the shallow end. We will also be installing a cofferdam in the creek upstream from the pool. This temporary dam will prevent water from entering the tunnel while the work is being done. Once this is complete, we will begin installing a cofferdam in the shallow end of the pool to keep water away from the edge of the tunnel. 

On Monday, October 29, the shallow end of the pool is scheduled to be closed until the project’s end. The pool will not be lowered or drained, and the deep end will remain open until sometime in mid-to-late December. 

Zilker Zephyr 

As part of this project,  an electric pole was installed  near the playground and train depot. During this work, a contractor’s truck drove over the train tunnel at the end of the Zilker Zephyr route, causing some cracking, which may indicate structural damage.  Engineers are currently evaluating the situation and developing repair options. Operation of the Zilker Zephyr Train has been suspended until further notice.

Please note that construction schedules tend to change frequently due to weather or unexpected conditions. This project is no exception. We’ll keep you posted on the progress on this blog. Check back for updates: http://www.austintexas.gov/BartonTunnel

If you have any questions, please email the project team.