The University of Georgia (UGA) has completed the public comment period for its proposed redevelopment of Legion Field, a project that would expand green space and add an amphitheater by removing the existing Legion Pool. The university announced in September its intention to transform the area, doubling the size of usable field space and incorporating terraced seating for up to 1,100 people with additional standing room for 3,500.
The proposal is based on recommendations from a campus working group that spent six months assessing site conditions, usage patterns, and long-term needs. As part of compliance with the Georgia Environmental Policy Act (GEPA), UGA published an environmental effects report and accepted public comments over a 30-day period ending December 5. Although not required to do so initially, UGA held a public hearing on November 19 after receiving interest from the community.
The hearing took place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., scheduled around exam times to encourage student participation. It featured 34 speakers under a moderated format and was recorded for public record. In total, UGA received 127 written comments: 84 opposed, 34 in favor, and nine categorized as other. More than half of those who spoke at the hearing also submitted written statements.
Supporters highlighted benefits such as expanded outdoor study spaces, improved recreation areas near residence halls, enhanced Wi-Fi-enabled seating, and more opportunities for student events throughout the year. Student leaders representing various organizations voiced strong support for the project.
“Right now, Legion Pool requires over $90,000 in student activity fee funding each year, yet fewer than 2.5% of students use it. That doesn’t feel like a fair or effective investment for the student body,” stated an SGA leader. “The redevelopment plan creates a space that students will actually use. UGA’s announcement highlights new outdoor recreation lawns, more green space and flexible areas for student programs and gatherings. This is a much better fit for how students spend their time on campus today and would bring real value to a far larger group of students.”
A faculty emerita in employment law expressed support as well: “I found myself beyond dismayed, more like totally taken aback and upset, that the argument was ever even presented by advocates of keeping the pool open that it had historical racial integration significance that meant it should remain open despite the fact that few Blacks use it… To keep this little-used pool in need of significant upgrades and repairs open using University funds to subsidize it for a few people, and when other pools are readily available, makes no sense… Be honest. For a few folks it is just a convenient venue that may hold personal history for them, but UGA’s proposed usage that is for all should not be sacrificed for this.”
Opponents cited sentimental ties to Legion Pool and its role in their connection to UGA.
“My father was a faculty member, and our summers were spent at Legion Pool. Without it, there would not have been a pool available to many faculty children.”
“For many of us, summer months at Legion Pool are a vital part of our connection to the University. It is a space defined by respect, warmth and genuine care — among patrons and pool staff alike — qualities that are increasingly rare and deeply valued.”
All oral and written feedback will be reviewed before UGA reaches its final decision on whether to proceed with redevelopment plans.
UGA formed its working group in early 2025 to evaluate both Legion Pool’s future and broader campus needs. The group analyzed financial records showing operating deficits at Legion Pool every year since opening—totaling $438,000 over five years—and noted declining usage rates among students (only about 10% of visitors). The pool currently loses tens of thousands of gallons of water daily during summer operations due to leaks or inefficiencies.
Estimates suggest basic repairs could cost between $926,000 and $2.175 million; full replacement could require up to $11.4 million. Meanwhile, Athens-Clarke County offers several alternative aquatic facilities—including five community pools such as Bishop Park’s recently renovated pool—providing local access without reliance on university resources.
Based on these findings regarding low student use rates (<2.5%), persistent financial losses funded through student fees ($90k annually), substantial repair costs ($926k–$11M), high water consumption (24k–39k gallons/day), environmental concerns from leaks/wastewater loss during summer operation periods compared with off-season figures (326 gallons/day), along with alternative community options already available nearby (including Bishop Park’s upgraded pool), university leadership determined continued operation was financially unsustainable.
If approved after review of all feedback received during GEPA-mandated processes—including both oral testimony from hearings/open forums plus all written submissions—the redevelopment would double green space at Legion Field while adding amenities like amphitheater seating; Wi-Fi-enabled study/classroom areas; flexible programming/event venues; enhanced lighting/security features; expanded pathways; increased parking capacity (+70 spaces/20% overall project area); all intended primarily for year-round student/community benefit rather than limited seasonal access/use tied solely to swimming facilities.
Once finalized per state requirements/procedures outlined under GEPA statutes/regulations/policies/processes/standards/guidelines/etc., notice will be published publicly via Athens Banner-Herald within legally mandated timeframes.
