BASTROP– On Monday, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department began a major renovation of the Bastrop State Park Pool to repair significant leaks and upgrade mechanical equipment. The project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the summer, will cause the pool to close during the 2018 season.

Built in 1937, the pool was last renovated 20 years ago. Project improvements include resurfacing of all three pools, installing new plumbing, pumps, filters and chemical systems. In recent years, the pool has experienced numerous leaks and efforts to address these issues have only provided temporary relief.

“As a place for summer fun and community health, we recognize the value of the historic swimming pool to both the community and park visitors,” said Jamie Creacy, Superintendent of Bastrop State Park.  “After repairing leaks and mechanical malfunctions on the pool for over a decade, we came to a point where a significant project had to be undertaken to keep the facility in operation.  We look forward to having swimmers back in an efficient and modernized pool facility that the community will be proud of.”

For the past six seasons, the pool has been managed by the Bastrop YMCA, which has offered services including swim lessons, summer day camps and community events.

With the pool closure, TPWD and the YMCA will be offering Bastrop YMCA members the following:

• Free day-use entry to Bastrop State Park from Memorial Day to Labor Day with a current Bastrop YMCA membership;
• Free entry to all YMCA of Austin facilities and pools during that same time period.
• Free entry into the East Metro park pool in Manor;
• Swim lessons at the Cub Scout Pool at the Lost Pines Boy Scout Camp during the month of July.

In addition, the Bastrop YMCA will offer a full host of youth, family and health & wellness classes, including summer camp at Bastrop Church of Christ for children ages 5-12 as well as summer youth sports leagues in July and August.

Finally, the Bastrop YMCA will soon be unveiling a new Aire Fitness outdoor gym in Fisherman’s Park, with outdoor fitness classes that are free for YMCA members and available to the community for a per class fee.

“We understand the challenge of not having access to a pool during the summer,” said Terry Moore, Bastrop YMCA Executive Director, “but we’re committed to providing Bastrop County residents a variety of fun, healthy and engaging experiences that will keep them active while still helping to beat the heat.”