Heavy machinery is on site at the city’s oldest aquatic facility as it undergoes $11 million of renovations.
Forest Park Pool opened in 1922 and has had several renovations over the decades to fix structural issues and make room for the growing community. Now, the city’s only Olympic-size public pool is getting a multi-million dollar facelift.
Let’s rewind 💰
Last May, voters approved a $560 million bond package aimed at improving existing city facilities, including Forest Park Pool. The 2022 Bond includes $11 million in funding to demolish the existing pool and bathhouse and construct new ones.
This week, construction crews are working carefully to remove stones from the bathhouse to be repurposed in the new facility. Here’s a look at what the re-built aquatic center will include:
- Eight 50-meter lap lanes
- Leisure pool
- Active water play elements
- Interactive area with a slide
- New bathhouse with changing rooms
Construction is expected to wrap up by next summer.
Where should we swim this summer? 🏊♂️
Marine Park Pool — the city’s only other public pool — will be open all summer at 303 NW 20th St.
Thanks to an agreement with the city and YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, residents also have access to the William M. McDonald YMCA outdoor pool and park on the Eastside for the same fee ($4-$6) as the city’s aquatic centers.
For more ways to cool off this summer, click here.
100 years worth of memories 💭
When we first reported the renovations, we asked our readers what their favorite memories were at the 100-year-old pool. Here’s what y’all had to say:
Jim M. — “My beloved, hard working, Dad was a postman/mailman for the South Side and decided that all five of us kids should learn how to swim, so he worked extra jobs so we could take swimming lessons. We received our lessons at Forest Park Pool and coincidentally that was on our Dad’s route, so he would periodically check in on us.”
Dr. Marilyn B. — “It was always a special day when my brother and I got to meet cousins for a day at Forest Park pool. This was in the early 50’s. The cicadas sang their songs and all seemed right with the world!”
Kathleen G. — “I learned to swim at Forest Park pool back in the early 70’s. It was a highlight of every summer, we would take a picnic lunch and swim all day. So glad it is being repaired!”
Jo M. — “I lived on the Northside of Fort Worth and we did not have a car. My parents used to take me on the bus, including one transfer, and we would spend the day there. I loved those days!!!”
Pegie F. — “I took Red Cross swimming lessons and loved every vivid minute!!”
