Olympic Pool may be a tad more expensive than previously thought

Kerrville officials are seeking solutions after construction bids for the Olympic Pool renovation project exceeded the initial budget, potentially requiring a $750,000 increase in funding.

During back-to-back meetings on April 21-22, the Economic Improvement Corporation (EIC) and City Council reviewed options for moving forward with the $7 million project after receiving two bids that surpassed the $6.1 million construction budget.

“We’re evaluating the bids and discussing value engineering opportunities with the assumed low bidder,” Assistant City Manager Michael Hornes told council members Tuesday during a workshop presentation.

Officials identified the pool restoration portion as the primary source of increased costs, citing a 5% jump related to tariffs and economic instability.

To close the budget gap, staff proposed reallocating approximately $1 million in anticipated savings from two other Quality of Life bond projects: $650,000-$750,000 from the Cailloux Theater and $250,000-$350,000 from the Scott Schreiner Golf Course.

“The original hope was to use savings for additional projects, but the higher pool bids necessitate potentially using savings for the pool itself,” Hornes explained.

City staff requested council consensus to prepare an amendment increasing the pool budget up to $7.75 million while continuing value engineering efforts.

Council members present indicated support for bringing the amendment forward at a future meeting, likely in May.

The pool design includes a movable bulkhead that would allow conversion to 25-yard lanes for high school and collegiate competitions, the standard format for U.S. swimming events. Several features were already moved to alternates to manage costs, including stadium seating, team locker rooms, and some competitive swimming features.

Officials aim to maintain the summer 2026 completion target for the facility.