If you're in West Texas and planning on making a trip to thelargest spring-fed swimming pool in the world, you'll have to wait.
That's because Balmorhea State Park pool has been closed due to "structural failure."
During an annual pool cleaning, park officials say they discovered damage to a concrete slab under one of the diving boards.
The concrete slab is used to "stabilize the walls of the pool from erosion," according to a press release from Barlmorhea State Park officials.
Due to structural failure, the Balmorhea State Park pool in #westTexas will be closed until further notice pending repairs: https://t.co/d4aA57HUGp pic.twitter.com/TNhMbZ3YDE
— TX Parks & Wildlife (@TPWDnews) May 11, 2018
"Balmorhea State Park is a treasured oasis in west Texas that has provided unique recreational opportunities for generations of Texans,” said park official Brent Leisure, in the press release.
“Our staff is working diligently to address the situation and make the pool is safe for the visitors and the aquatic life in habitats associated with the San Solomon Springs.”
Park officials say they are evaluating the extent of the damage and are and taking steps to repair the structure.
The park will remain open for day-use only with limited facilities.
The pool has become a staple of West Texas summers. Each day, the San Solomon Springs pumps 15 million gallons of fresh water throughout the pool, attracting visitors from near and far to dip into the cool waters.
That
Since 2008, the number of annual park visitors has jumped 127 percent, from about 72,000 visitors to more than 163,000 in 2016, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Last May, Balmorhea State Park imposed a cap on daily visitations. Since then the park only allows 1,300 visitors a day.
