Palm Desert Aquatic Center Closes Lap Pool Until 2026

PALM DESERT, CA — The Palm Desert Aquatic Center is suspending its popular lap pool until "major" repairs can be made, the city announced Tuesday.

The lap pool will shut down due to issues with the facility's filtration system, but weekend recreation swim will still be offered.

The decision to shut down lap swimming comes after repeated reports of "reduced water clarity" in the pool, most notably during the summer months when the pool was busy. Soaring outdoor temperatures also triggered an increased strain on the system, the city said.

The pool's pump equipment, including filtration systems, pumps and heaters, was installed back when the facility opened in 2011.

Over time, extreme weather, aging materials and damaged fiberglass seals around the filter tanks had compromised the system's ability to clear the water properly.

Main drains are required to be visible, according to the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health.

"While staff have implemented short-term solutions and even attempted repairs, these efforts have not been sufficient to support a consistent lap swim schedule," the city wrote in a statement.

Meanwhile, the recreation and splash pools will remain open since they are less impacted. Find an updated schedule for the aquatic center here.

A full replacement of the facility's systems is set to begin in November and the center is expected to close for eight to 10 weeks during the renovation. The pools will open again in 2026.

"The City understands the inconvenience this may cause to residents who rely on the lap pool for fitness, therapy, and training," officials said.

Anyone with questions about schedule impacts, refunds, or pass holds is encouraged to contact PDAC staff at 760-565-7467 or visit the facility’s website at pdpool.com.