Denison to remove Waterloo Pool structure

DENISON, Texas — The Denison City Council has decided to remove what remains of Waterloo Pool. The pool has been closed since August because of structural problems, and removal is expected to cost about $250,000, paid with insurance money. The council made the decision at its Oct. 5 meeting, KXII and KTEN reported. The city said several outside contractors inspected the pool, and their recommendations included taking out the existing structure, according to KXII. Until a long-term plan is in place, Denison swimmers will use Austin College's indoor pool. Under an agreement with the college, pool patrons will be able to swim there free from 9 to 11 a.m. on weekdays once Austin College has enough lifeguards for the longer hours and added demand. The city will announce a start date when staffing is ready. Hours will follow the college's campus calendar, and swimmers will have to sign a waiver at the college. "We understand how difficult this transition has been for our swimmers, families and longtime Waterloo Pool patrons," Denison Mayor Robert Crawley said in the city's statement. "Aquatics has been an important part of our community for generations, and while we may not have every answer today, please know we are committed to thoughtfully evaluating our options and working toward a path forward that will best serve Denison for years to come." The council voted in a special called meeting in September to close Waterloo Pool indefinitely, the city announced Sept. 15. An Aug. 21 inspection by an independent engineer and the city fire marshal found an unstable roof structure, structural beams corroding at an accelerated rate, and wear to the pool liner and shell. The pool opened in the 1960s and was expected to last about 30 years, according to the city. The roof was added in 1995. Reports the council discussed in 2023 showed the facility had a limited life left. Starting in 2024, staff closed the pool whenever winds topped 20 mph after inspectors found it unsafe in those conditions. Unofficial early estimates from outside engineers put the cost of fixing the problems at $7.5 million to $10 million, the city said in September. The optional $5 Waterloo Pool fee is suspended while the council weighs the pool's future. City leaders have said they will look at community partnerships and other long-term options. Those could include a major renovation or a new facility. Questions can go to Denison Parks and Recreation at parksandrec@denisontx.gov or 903-465-2720, ext. 2033.