As New Braunfels gears up for the Memorial Day weekend, the city is also marking the completion of two key recreation projects. The Last Public Exit on the Comal River and the Landa Park Aquatic Complex (LPAC) are reopening after significant renovations that promise to enhance the experience of residents and visitors alike. The City of New Braunfels invested in these projects to ensure a blend of safety, accessibility, and enjoyment as patrons kickoff summer 2025.
With a $1.2 million budget from the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation, the Last Public Exit has received a major facelift, including new stairs, an underwater landing, and better access for individuals with disabilities. This was part of a conscientious effort by the city to make the river more inclusive. While the Garden Street Bridge Exit has provided a shorter float option, the revamped Last Public Exit, closed during its upgrade since December 2024, is ready once again for the full river experience. "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," Deputy City Manager Jordan Matney mentioned in a statement obtained by the City of New Braunfels.
Meanwhile, the Landa Park Aquatic Complex isn't lagging behind in its share of the rejuvenation. Following a significant $2.75 million renovation funded by leftover funds from the 2013 bond, LPAC has refurbished its Olympic Pool and Bath House for the first time since 1968 and 2008, respectively. The revamp includes updates to the pool's surface, children's play structures, and the implementation of new plumbing and electrical systems, as well as enhancements to the bath house entry, locker rooms, and public spaces. These improvements come along with promises of better landscapes all around within the complex.
These projects are not only a nod to the pressing need for inclusivity and safety but also represent a city that listens and responds to the needs of a community looking forward to sunny days ahead. "The Landa Park Aquatic Complex is a unique and vital asset for our community," Deputy City Manager Matney told the City of New Braunfels. "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." For information on the Comal River projects, the City of New Braunfels invites everyone to visit their website at www.newbraunfels.gov.
