Only public pool in west Turlock has been shut since 2019. That’s about to change
Columbia Pool is about to reopen in west Turlock after a nearly six-year closure and $9.08 million overhaul.
Swimmers can plunge in right after the ribbon-cutting at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 17. The event will have a luau theme, complete with a ukulele band. It also will feature a DJ, a photo booth and tours of the site.
The pool is at 600 Columbia St. in Columbia Park. Swimming will be free until 5 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. The city has not yet set the hours and fees for summer lessons and other activities.
The site has had only a splash pad for kids since the closure at the end of summer 2019.
The project was delayed by funding gaps and debate over how extensive it should be. A partial rebuild did not pass muster with the Stanislaus County Department of Environmental Resources, which noted 18 violations.
When did Columbia Pool first open?
The pool opened in 1957 and had only minor repairs from 1990 on, said a 2020 report from Aquatic Design Group, based near San Diego. It cited the poor condition of the plaster, tile, deck, pumps, filters, chemical system, restrooms and disabled access.
Columbia is the only public pool on the west side of town. The others are at Turlock and Pitman high schools, which also are part of the summer program.
Vice Mayor Rebecka Monez, whose council district takes in Columbia Park, praised the project in a city news release.
“Columbia Pool has always been more than just a place to swim — it’s a place where families gather, kids learn confidence and neighbors connect ... I couldn’t be more excited to reopen this facility for the residents who never gave up on it.”
How did Turlock pay for the project?
Bobo Construction Inc. of Elk Grove did the main work on a $5.77 million contract awarded in September 2023. The other costs included engineering, demolition of the old pool and purchase of prebuilt structures for a snack bar, office and restrooms.
The city got $5.07 million of the funding via fees charged on cannabis businesses. An additional $3.81 million was left over from federal money that helped the city through COVID-19. The Turlock Irrigation District added a $198,264 grant for energy-saving features.
The pool is 100 feet long, 83 feet wide and 1 to 9 feet deep. The upgrade included landscaping, picnic tables, decking, changing areas and shaded seating.
“This project represents a meaningful investment in our neighborhoods and in the quality of life for every Turlock resident,” Mayor Amy Bublak said.
This story was originally published May 14, 2025 at 10:46 AM.
