Barton Springs Wall Repair Project

Austin Parks and Recreation will perform necessary maintenance and repair needed to protect and maintain a historic stone masonry retaining wall at Barton Springs Pool. This process includes the removal of significant vegetation growth and trees along the eastern edge of Barton Springs Pool. This project is anticipated to start on September 8, 2026, and will not result in the closure of the pool. 

Background

The masonry wall at Barton Springs Pool was built in 1917 and is located at the eastern edge of the site. The wall is considered contributory to the historic designation of Zilker Park as a Historic District under the National Register of Historic Places. Beginning in 2015, Austin Parks and Recreation staff observed signs that this wall has been losing structural integrity, primarily caused by vegetation and tree growth within the backfill zone of influence of this wall. Vegetation growth on the upside of retaining walls is typically not allowed, since this growth adds additional loads that compromise the structural integrity of the wall. Additionally, a fence at the top of the wall has prevented maintenance staff from adequately clearing the area and preventing vegetation growth. This growth has led to the diminished structural integrity of the wall.