Barton Springs Wall Repair Project
Latest Update
- Frequently Asked Questions added, quick links below:
City Council District 8
Project Summary
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.
Project Description
To repair the wall and prevent this issue from reoccurring, significant vegetation and several trees must be removed. Following the removal, the wall will be assessed by a structural engineer experienced in historic preservation. After the assessment, the engineer will draft a detailed repair plan. Skilled masons will then be selected to implement the plan and make the repairs. The construction area will be fenced off from public access, but the pool will maintain regular operating hours throughout.
Anticipated Timeline
Please note that as with any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible, and all dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and weather.
- September 2026: Vegetation and tree removal
- September to December 2026: Engineer assessment and design
- Early 2027: Anticipated beginning repairs, subject to engineer assessment report and availability of contractor
- Completion to be determined, subject to engineer assessment report and availability of contractor
Communication and Engagement
Previous and future public notifications and outreach will be listed on this project webpage.
- August 25, 2026: Press Release
Frequently Asked Questions
The historic retaining wall is showing significant deterioration and structural distress in several areas. Repairs are needed to preserve the wall and maintain a safe environment around Barton Springs Pool.
The dense vegetation currently limits access and visibility for the structural forensics engineer to fully evaluate the wall's condition and determine the appropriate repairs. It is clear the unplanned trees are resulting in the deterioration of the wall. The hired experts will evaluate to what extent.
A structural forensics engineer with historic preservation experience will assess the wall and develop appropriate repair recommendations. Skilled masonry professionals will complete the repairs.
The structural assessment and design will follow vegetation removal, with wall repairs anticipated to begin in early 2027. The final schedule will depend on conditions identified during the assessment. The website will be updated as more information is available.
No. This is an Austin Parks and Recreation maintenance project solely focused on repairing and preserving the existing historic retaining wall.
The project is solely focused on repairing an existing retaining wall and does not propose an increase in impervious cover.
The pool’s security fence will be adjusted to allow a small 2” gap for grounds keepers to maintain the area above the wall and ensure that no root-invasive vegetation can once again grow to a substantial size in the area above the wall.
The wall serves an important structural function by retaining the higher ground behind it, including the area near the Zilker Playscape Shelter. This can be seen on the Map figure in the press release. The wall is also considered a contributing member to Zilker’s National Historic District designation, making preservation and repair the preferred approach by the Historic Preservation standards.
Per design criteria, vegetation of this size is not permitted behind a structural retaining wall unless the retaining wall was designed to handle the additional load along with root barrier protection. Due to the age of the wall and historical images, we understand that this is not the case. Additionally, vegetation removal is necessary to provide access for the structural assessment and repairs.
No, there is no danger. Austin Parks and Recreation Forestry staff are experienced arborists that can conduct work with minimal impact. Austin Parks and Recreation is actively collaborating with the environmental conservation group at Austin Watershed Protection who manage the salamander habitat to ensure to harm is done.
No, the trees and vegetation have grown in the area between the retaining wall and fence naturally over time, which are sometimes called "volunteers."
The trees are located too close to the wall to complete the repairs. Some trees are located inches away and directly causing the deterioration.
No. None of the trees are heritage trees. There is one protected tree that is a two-stemmed hackberry tree in poor form. It has an approved permit for removal.
Trees will not be replanted immediately adjacent to the wall because future root growth could damage the repaired structure. All retaining walls have drainage systems behind them that are buried underground. These systems allow water build-up to have a place to go instead of applying pressure on the wall. This is crucial for a structural retaining wall located in a floodplain. These systems attract vegetation roots and encourage growth. Austin Parks and Recreation will evaluate appropriate vegetation for the area following repairs.
Some localized changes in shade are expected. Most of the affected trees are relatively small and located within the narrow area immediately adjacent to the wall.
No pool closures are currently anticipated. Work areas will be fenced off from the public for safety.
Yes. Barton Springs Pool is expected to remain open during the project, although visitors may notice temporary fencing and construction activity near the work area.
No, the work is focused on the retaining wall along the edge of the pool. Construction activities will be managed to minimize impacts to the pool and surrounding environment.
Funding and Resources
This project will be funded by Austin Parks and Recreation’s operating budget.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact Ayah Al-Omari, Austin Parks and Recreation Project Coordinator, at 512-974-9523 or ayah.al-omari@austintexas.gov.
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Photos taken May 2026
