Bluejacket Pool will permanently close on August 6, at the end of the 2024 outdoor pool season. The pool has reached the end of its useful life, as outlined in the Overland Park Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
The 51-year-old pool has had significant water loss in recent years due to leaks, resulting in substantial repair and maintenance costs.
A review of the 2025 season’s needs for Bluejacket Pool revealed that the pool would be expected to lose more than four million gallons of water, driving up costs by more than $20,000 for replacement water and chemicals. Additionally, approximately $15,000 would be needed for basic safety maintenance.
Given these financial and environmental challenges, the City determined that further investment in pool preparation and staffing for the 2025 pool season would be imprudent.
“While we recognize the impact this closure may have on our community, it’s a necessary and planned step as we look to the future of our parks and recreation facilities, ensuring we are good financial stewards and making responsible decisions that will benefit our community for years to come,” said Parks and Recreation Department Director Jermel Stevenson.
The Parks and Recreation Department is updating its long-range plan, Playbook OP, which addresses the needs of Overland Park’s parks and recreational amenities, including the pool system. City staff will present a draft plan to the community and City Council this fall.
Staff also allocated Capital Improvement Program funding for 2025 to explore options for reimagining the pool space at Bluejacket Park. The City will involve nearby neighbors and all other community members in planning the future of this park.
To commemorate Bluejacket Pool’s service to the community, the City will hold a Final Splash Bash on August 6 from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature pool games, music, treats and more. Admission will be free.
Overland Park’s three other outdoor pools, Stonegate Pool, Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center and Young’s Pool, will reopen next year.
For more information about Overland Park pools, please visit opkansas.org/pools.