Waterworks Terrace Site: Boerne’s Original Municipal Pool
In the 1930s, the waterworks site was associated with one of the earliest construction projects in Texas funded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the WPA served as a relief measure for unemployment of young men following the Great Depression. Through this effort, the city’s first swimming pool was built under the direction of Mayor Robert Hickman and opened on May 11, 1935, as part of Boerne Trade Days.
Housed in the buildings surrounding the pool were the Boerne Waterworks building and the volunteer Fire Department. By 1952, the Boerne Grange had also established the Boerne Public Library here.
The pool operated until 1978, long after other city departments moved on. Elements of the original pool are still visible today, although the pool itself was filled in many years ago. The site overlooking Cibolo Creek retains its tall mosaic limestone retaining wall with rugged stone coping along the top. Curvilinear steps still lead to the creek below. The pool house and other buildings were torn down to make way for public restrooms built in 2003.
This site is now a project proposal by the City of Boerne to redevelop underutilized public space which has historical significance as part of Boerne’s recreational history. Waterworks Terrace Park will honor the heritage of the historic waterworks building still housing one of the city’s original water wells as well as the terraces which create an upper hardscaped level and a lower green space. Proposed project amenities will provide greater usability, accessibility, and enhance the natural ambience of this central downtown location. Additional features will include interactive water play, seating and a small amphitheater. Decorative paving, tables, public art, large trees, signage, synthetic turf and irrigated planting beds are also part of the plan.
More renderings are forthcoming on the Waterworks Terrace Park. If you would like to donate to this particular project, click here.
