Kerrville’s EIC sees plans for revitalized Olympic Pool

The Kerrville Economic Improvement Corporation heard about some of the big-ticket items the city would consider in the coming years, including major upgrades to the Olympic Pool.

The exact improvements of the Olympic Pool are deeply varied — ranging from a $5.3 million upgrade to make it a competitive year-round pool. Kerrville Parks and Recreation Director Ashlea Boyle faced questions from the EIC board of directors about the scope of the plans. She said the pool is leaking, an issue discovered last week.

Assistant City Manager Michael Hornes said the city is still in conversations with partners — believed to be Schreiner University and Kerrville Independent School District. Last year, Schreiner announced it was exploring adding a women’s swimming to its NCAA Division III program. The university presented a proposed plan for remaking the aging pool.

However, some of the figures presented by city staff to EIC were decidedly dated — most based on 2019 estimates. The city’s most ambitious plan was an all-in recreation center estimated at $28 million.

At least one EIC member said his biggest concern was ensuring the pool was ready for summer swimming.

“This is a pretty high priority in my mind,” said Danny Almond, EIC’s vice president. “I’d like to see the city move on this.”

Gary Cochrane was surprised by the idea of a year-round heated pool.

“Is there anyone know in South Texas that does this,” Cochrane asked of Boyle.

The city wants to improve the greens at Scott Schreiner Golf Course. Hornes said the greens are now 24 years old. It’s not the only improvement at the golf course that could run $1.2 million and include the renovations of bathrooms and other facilities.