Planning The Future of Deep Eddy

For generations, Deep Eddy Pool and Eilers Park have been among Austin’s most treasured public spaces — a place for lap swimmers, families, kids, neighbors, sunbathers, and visitors from across the city to gather around fresh spring water and a uniquely Austin sense of community.

In October 2024, Friends of Deep Eddy hosted a community input meeting to learn what changes might best support the long-term future of Deep Eddy and Eilers park. Swimmers, neighbors, and supporters shared ideas about preserving the character of the pool while improving accessibility, parking, shade, seating, safety, and the overall park experience for future generations.

Building on that feedback, Friends of Deep Eddy developed and approved an initial Vision Project framework in May 2025. Our goals include improving access and usability, addressing long-term infrastructure needs, enhancing recreational and natural spaces, and protecting the historic and environmental character of Deep Eddy and Eilers Park.

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department has now joined the effort is engaging landscape architecture firm RVI to develop professional concept plans and plan alternatives for the pool and park. The process will include additional community engagement, public input, and coordination with various City departments.

Friends of Deep Eddy board members and volunteers — including Paul Bardagjy, Ben Serrato, Blake Tollett, Chris Flores, Maureen Coulehan, Scott Jeanette, Jeff Hershey, Shelley Hardeman, and Tom Fornoff — have been participating in ongoing meetings with City staff to help guide this collaborative effort.

This is still the beginning of a long-term planning process, but it represents an exciting opportunity to thoughtfully preserve and strengthen Deep Eddy for decades to come.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tom Fornoff, FODE Communications Director