Just in time for the start of the 2025 summer season, the City of New Braunfels is excited to announce the completion and reopening of two major water recreation projects: the Last Public Exit Improvement Project on the Comal River and the renovation of the Landa Park Aquatic Complex (LPAC). Both projects will be open to the public starting Memorial Day Weekend.

Last Public Exit

The City has completed the $1.2 million Last Public Exit Improvement Project on the Comal River, funded by the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation. Construction began in December 2024 and was performed by Austin Filter Systems. Key improvements include replacement of the bottom stairs, installation of an underwater landing, and enhanced ADA accessibility. These upgrades were designed to improve safety, ease of river exit, and inclusivity for all users including tubers, kayakers, and paddleboarders.

“We are excited to reopen the Last Public Exit just in time for one of the busiest weekends of the year on the Comal River,” said Deputy City Manager Jordan Matney. “These improvements not only make the exit safer and more accessible, but they also reaffirm the City’s commitment to providing a positive recreation experience for residents and visitors alike.”

River traffic can now once again use the Last Public Exit, which had been closed during construction. For those seeking a shorter float, the Garden Street Bridge Exit remains available to enter the river and to exit the river, which can reduce your time on the water by approximately 1 to 1½ hours. 

Landa Park Aquatic Complex

Also reopening Memorial Day weekend is the newly renovated Landa Park Aquatic Complex, following a $2.75 million overhaul, which is the first major renovation of the Olympic Pool since it was installed in 1968 and the Bath House since 2008. The project, funded by unused contingency funds from the 2013 bond, began in December 2024 and focused on improving safety, accessibility, and visitor experience. Highlights of the Olympic Pool renovations include resurfacing and retiling the pool, updates to play structures for children, installing new gutter, plumbing and electrical systems, and ADA improvements. Highlights of the Bath House renovations include updates to the entrance, locker rooms, staff space, and party room, as well as landscape enhancements.

“The Landa Park Aquatic Complex is a unique and vital asset for our community,” said Deputy City Manager Matney. “We’re thrilled to reopen with these significant enhancements that not only meet safety and accessibility standards but also create a more enjoyable environment for families and visitors.”

The City of New Braunfels thanks residents and visitors for their patience during the construction period and looks forward to a safe, fun-filled summer on the river. For more about river information, construction projects, and traffic alerts from the City of New Braunfels, visit www.newbraunfels.gov.