The 2024 Renovation

By Edward Balaguer

Just as the famous Ship of Theseus had its planks replaced one by one over many years, so too have various pieces of Deep Eddy been patched up, repaired, and replaced in its 100+ year history.

In 2023 we noticed a major plank in need of replacement when the cracks in the wall between the shallow and deep sides widened, causing significant water leaks. Our recent cold winter snaps caused those cracks to grow larger and larger. The Aquatics Department was faced with choosing whether to repair the wall this winter or risk it failing in the middle of summer.

On January 8, 2024 Deep Eddy was closed for the complete replacement of the wall. At the same time, antiquated lights, with their costly and hard-to-replace bulbs, were replaced with new high efficiency LED lights that better illuminate the pool.

With spring cleaning complete and a fresh coat of paint applied and cured, Deep Eddy reopened on March 10th to little fanfare but much joyous swimming. As a result of the repairs, after each nightly draining of the pool, the water rises faster than it has in years, and with unparalleled clarity. These repairs raise the reliability, beauty and safety of Deep Eddy as a glorious space for people of all ages; a place to swim and relax and enjoy the clean water, summer weather, and cool shade.

By Edward Balaguer, Acquatic Supervisor, City of Austin Parks & Recreation