San Marcos - Buda - Kyle Edition | January 2024

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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 13, ISSUE 9 JAN. 20FEB. 16, 2024

2024 Annual Community Guide

$39M extension of FM 110 opens

The new highway segment FM 110 North begins near Yarrington Road and the San Marcos Amazon SAT6 fulllment center.

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Newly completed road loop east of I35 set to alleviate congestion

million and included federal, state and local dollars, according to TxDOT. San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson noted that the road had been planned since the 1950s. “We’ve been looking forward to this for a long time,” Hughson said.

east of I-35 at Yarrington Road ocially opened to trac Dec. 20. The road will enhance the safety and mobility of drivers by reducing congestion between Kyle and San Marcos, said Antonio Luján, a public information ocer for the Texas Depart- ment of Transportation. This infrastructure project cost just over $39

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Approximately 280,000 vehicles spent time driving on I-35 between San Marcos and Kyle in 2022, however ocials hope some of those drivers will now use a new stretch of road—FM 110—to alleviate trac. The section of FM 110 North from Hwy. 80 to

CONTINUED ON 19

Also in this issue

Impacts: Teal House Bakery now open in Buda (Page 8)

Annual Community Guide: Tri- city area snapshot (Page 13)

Transportation: SH 45 gap route identied (Page 16)

Events: Buda Art Brawl coming Feb. 3 (Page 20)

Your superpower? Knowing where to go in an emergency. 24/7 emergency care, right here in Buda. Be a h ER o

5330 Overpass Road Exit 220, across from Cabelas Drive

Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2024 Baylor Scott & White Health. 09-BU-993545 DT

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Happy New Year from the City of Kyle! Have a New Years Resolution? Get in shape with sports leagues! TeamSideline.com/Kyle Check books off your reading list! CityofKyle.com/Library Get out and enjoy local events! CityofKyle.com/Calendar Get involved with your community! CityofKyle.com/BC

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

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BUILDING BRIGHTER FUTURES since 1973

1/27 Birdlegg 2/3 Rob Leines 2/9 The Joel Hofmann Band

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BLANCO RIVER

Impacts

• 2977 N. I-35, San Marcos • www.bigstarbackyards.com

OAKWOOD LOOP

159

158

5 FlowCo The coworking space is owned by Emily Tomlin. FlowCo offers nine private studios along with desk rentals. • Slated to open in January • 2626 Hunter Road, San Marcos • Instagram: flowco.smtx 6 Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy will sell a variety of hobby and fantasy-related games.

SESSOM DR.

HUTCHINSON ST.

159

1984

San Marcos

INVASION ST.

WONDER WORLD DR.

• Opening in March or April • 911 Hwy. 80, San Marcos • www.dlair.net

SAN MARCOS RIVER

123

Relocations

7 Original Penguin The store was previously located at 4015 I-35, Ste. 612, in the San Marcos Tanger Outlets. Original Penguin sells men’s casual clothes. • Relocated Nov. 9 • 3939 I-35 S., Ste. 304, San Marcos • www.originalpenguin.com 8 San Marcos BBQ The 1701 I-35 N. frontage road location will be relocating in February to Wimberley. San Marcos BBQ still offers dine in at its Hunter Road location and will start shipping out orders from there.

1979

MAP NOT TO SCALE

3 Wineaux The wine retail shop allows customers to taste wine before they buy a bottle. The store also hosts wine tasting events with a sommelier explanation of each variety. • Opened Dec. 1 • 314 E. Hutchison St., San Marcos • www.txwineaux.com

Now open

1 Blossom Liquor & Wine The liquor store sells a range of whiskey, gin and vodka. Blossom Liquor & Wine also sells seltzers and wine. • Opened Dec. 27 • 2041 I-35 N. Frontage Road, Bldg. 2, Ste. 213, San Marcos • 512-210-8422 2 HUGO The store sells casual menswear clothing items. • Opened in November • 3939 I-35 S., Ste.181, San Marcos • www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/san-marcos

• Relocating in February • 1701 I-35 N., San Marcos • www.sanmarcosbbq.com

Expansions

Coming soon

9 Christ Life Harris Hill Campus The nondenominational church is expanding and building a new facility. • Expanding in July • 190 Harris Hill Road, San Marcos • www.christlife.church

4 Big Star Backyards The family-owned hot tub and swim spa retailer and servicer is slated to open in its San Marcos location at the start of the new year. • Opening in January

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ, AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN & SIERRA MARTIN

Closings

Relocations

In the news

10 The Chili Dog Stand The stand permanently closed Dec. 30, according to a sign posted on the window of the stand. According to their website, the business operated through various owners since 1952. • Closed Dec. 30 • 1140 Invasion St., San Marcos • www.chilidogstand.com 11 Local Joe’s Kitchen The restaurant opened Sept. 12 and closed at the end of October. • Closed in October 12 LaniKai Lounge LaniKai Lounge, a Tiki bar in San Marcos, has permanently closed after almost two years in business. • Closed Jan. 1 • 700 N. LBJ Drive, Ste. 113, San Marcos • www.lanikailounge.com • 205 W. Hopkins St., San Marcos • Facebook: Local Joe’s Kitchen

13 Vim Gym The business relocated from the Old Mill Business Park at 105 Uhland Road. Vim Gym offers tumbling, stunt and jump classes as well as private lessons. The gym also offers competitive cheer, also known as Allstar Cheer, and instruction for all ages. • Reopened Nov. 28 • 4768 SH 123, Bldg. 2, San Marcos • www.vimgymsm.com

14 Roughhouse Brewing The brewery will celebrate its fifth anniversary in January. Roughhouse Brewing serves an assortment of brews, sandwiches and snacks. The brewery will celebrate Jan. 20 from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. with live music, screen printing and a special anniversary food menu. The brewery will also release a special bourbon barrel-aged Doppelbock named The Sheriff.

• 680 Oakwood Loop, San Marcos • www.roughhousebrewing.com

Models Open Daily! #happynewyear

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Impacts

disposable vapes. It also sells hookahs, glass pieces, wraps, CBD and coils. • Opened Dec. 29 • 101 Suffield Drive, Buda 5 The Main Squeeze Kyle native Blanca Galvan started the lemonade business in May 2023 doing pop-ups and events. The Main Squeeze offers more than 20 flavors to add to a classic lemonade, limeade or Red Bull drink, including passionfruit, kiwi, coconut, peach, and more. • Opened Jan. 8 • 106 N. Burleson St., Ste. A, Kyle • Facebook: The Main Squeeze

OLD SAN ANTONIO RD.

967

Buda

1626

2001

SUFFIELD DR.

Coming soon

WINDY HILL RD.

2001

KOHLERS CROSSING

6 Ma’Coco The Austin-based California-style Mexican restaurant will be located in the former Sweet Cakes 4 U building. Ma’Coco is owned by Javier Equihua, who also owns the San Marcos restaurant concept, Balcón. • Slated to open in January • 302 S. Main St., Ste. 101, Buda • www.macocoatx.com 7 Sharks Burger Sharks Burger first opened in Leander in 2017. The Kyle location will be the second location after Buda to deliver with DoorDash. Sharks Burger serves made-to- order, shark-themed burgers and sides. • Opening in February • 18915 I-35, Kyle • www.sharksburger.com 8 Reach Dental The dentist office offers routine preventative care, such as teeth cleanings, oral cancer screenings, dental sealants, athletic mouth guards and more. Reach Dental also offers full mouth restoration services including dental implants, fillings, crowns, bridges and dentures. • Slated to open in 2024

150

CROMWELL DR.

BLANCO RIVER

Kyle

MAP NOT TO SCALE

CENTER ST.

• Opened Dec. 8 • 270 Old San Antonio Road, Buda • www.pollosricos.com

Now open

1 Texas Children’s Pediatrics According to practice manager Mandy Zwerschke, the practice currently has one nurse practitioner and one physician. • Opened Jan. 8 • 5120 S. FM 1626 Ste. 100, Kyle • www.texaschildrenspediatrics.org 2 El Pollo Rico This is the 15th location to open in Texas. The Mexican restaurant specializes in authentic charcoal chicken.

3 Teal House Bakery The bakery sells a range of pastries and is known for its cinnamon rolls and breakfast sandwiches. • Opened in mid-October

• 200 Main St., Buda • www.tealhouse.co

• 18901 I-35, Ste. 100, Kyle • www.reachdentaltexas.com

4 The Laughing Buda Smoke Shop The smoke shop sells a range of vape juices and

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ & AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

In the news

Coming soon

Relocations

9 Preserve at Plum Creek The apartment complex changed ownership and management at the end of August and began the rebranding process with a name change from Provenza at Plum Creek Dec. 2. Community Manager Samantha Lear said they kept the new name similar to the original to avoid confusion and make the transition easy. The rebrand also involves upgrading community amenities and apartments. Built in 2016, the Preserve at Plum Creek is marketed as a luxury apartment complex offering one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes. • 5020 Cromwell Drive, Kyle • www.preserveplumcreek.com

11 Austin Angels The local nonprofit organization that supports children, youth and families in the foster care community is building its national headquarters. The facility, called The Foster Care Community Center, will be a two-story, 8,500-square-foot building and take the place of a former church facility. Austin Angels’ national headquarters will have a variety of different spaces for activities.

12 Color Me Royal The locally owned hair salon relocated from Sola Salon Studios in Southpark Meadows shopping mall to downtown Kyle in the beginning of November. The salon, which is family-owned by Lisa Perez and her husband, Arturo Perez, offers hair color, cuts, keratin treatments, facial waxing and perms. • Relocated Nov. 7 • 213 S. Old Hwy. 81, Kyle • http://colormeroyalsalon.glossgenius.com

Closings

10 Badassfoods 512 The food truck closed at the beginning of November, according to a Facebook post. Badassfoods 512 was a sister truck to Wrap Godz 512 and was locally owned by Mäc McGuire, Cedric Claiborne and Karen McCauley. The food truck sold gourmet burgers, wings and appetizers at The Railhouse Bar. • Closed Nov. 21 • 107 E. Center St., Kyle

• Opening fall 2024 • 401 FM 967, Buda • www.austinangels.com

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

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New Lakeside Lazy River Amenity Center Opening Soon!

Just 15 minutes south of downtown Austin, Sunfield offers endless ways to have fun in your own backyard! Enjoy the miles of hike and bike trails , catch and release ponds , the dog parks or our two spectacular Amenity Centers including Swimming Pools , a Lazy River and plenty of shade!

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Government

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN & ERIC WEILBACHER

SMFD receives best practices designation For the rst time, the San Marcos Fire Depart- ment has received the stamp of excellence from a statewide accreditation association. The gist According to the city of San Marcos, re depart- ments must demonstrate evidence that they excel in all aspects of re service operations. After three years of gathering data on train- ing, records keeping practices, re operations, emergency medical service and other aspects of running a re department, the Texas Fire Chiefs Association awarded the department with its Best Practices designation. “While most communities believe their local re department is an excellent re department, elected ocials, city managers, re chiefs and citizens can verify this belief by their re depart- ment attaining the best practices designation,”

New hearing to be set for city-visioning plan San Marcos ocials will take some more time for public outreach before a nal vote on updates to the city’s comprehensive plan. That’s according to a unanimous vote by City Council Dec. 19 to postpone consider- ation of the plan, titled Vision SMTX++. Looking ahead The plan was postponed so council could form an outreach committee, with plans to bring it back before council on Jan. 16. That committee met in December and decided to plan more outreach, according to city documents. A new public hearing and nal reading of any changes or amendments to the plan will come at a later date.

Fire Chief Les Stephens (center) and San Marcos Fire Department sta received the award on Dec. 5.

ERIC WEILBACHERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

said Seguin Fire Chief Dale Skinner, who is also the south region director for the TFCA. “This is accomplished through an independent third- party review to determine if an organization functions at a dened level of excellence.” Just 33 re departments in the state have been recognized with the accreditation since 2012, according to San Marcos city sta. San Marcos Fire Chief Les Stephens said the department will now have to demonstrate compliance every few years.

$7.6M Kyle re station to cut down response times The Kyle Fire Department held a groundbreak- ing ceremony for its fourth re station, located at 110 High Road Nov. 27. The background

Expanding to the Northeast

Cost: $7.6M

quickly,” Taylor said. Andy Womble, the department’s community outreach specialist, said the new station will serve the northeast area of Kyle, which is one of the city’s busiest areas. “Right now it takes us about 10-12 minutes to get to a call out there and with this station we’re hoping to drop it down to 2-3 minutes,” Womble said.

Space: 9,385 sq. ft. Timeline: January 2023-Fall 2024

Fire Chief Kyle Taylor said the department had been planning to add an additional station due to the city’s growth. “The demand and our call volume is going up

Funding source: American Rescue Plan Act, city of Kyle

KYLE FIRE DEPARTMENTCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Education

BY SIERRA MARTIN & BROOKE SJOBERG

ACC proposes free tuition for high school seniors Pending the outcome of a proposal from its new chancellor, some enrolled and prospective Austin Community College students could soon qualify for free tuition. What’s happening? In February, ACC Chancellor Russell Lowery-Hart will propose to the college system’s board of trustees a measure to create a zero-cost tuition program for high school seniors, with the goal of expanding the program to include students at all levels who live in the college system’s service area. If approved, it will go into effect this fall, a Jan. 10 release from ACC states. In October, Lowery-Hart described the commu- nity college’s affordability as its source of power and importance as a regional education partner. ACC has not increased tuition rates in the last decade.

Hays CISD will not employ chaplains

How it works Under the program, $85 per credit hour would be funded for each student for a period of three years, covering several fees paid by students: Resident tuition $67 General fee $15 Success fee $2 Sustainability fee $1 $85 per credit hour allocations Fees that would not be covered include: • Out-of-district fees • Tuition for nonresident and international students • Course- and program-specific fees • Textbook costs

The Hays CISD board of trustees voted against employing chaplains in the district Dec. 11. Due to the passage of Senate Bill 763 in the 88th Texas Legislature, each school board in the state must vote before March 1 on whether they will adopt a policy district to employ chaplains or allow them to volunteer. A closer look HCISD Superintendent Eric Wright said the district will continue to accept people from different religious backgrounds to serve as mentors to students but not take the place of professional school counselors. “Our school counselors are the best suited to handle all of the support services for our students ... because they are trained for such a purpose, and so that’s why we don’t want to employ chaplains in lieu of that,” Wright said.

SOURCE: AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

About the program High school seniors could receive up to three years of free tuition, with enrolled ACC students qualifying for two years, the release states. Funds for the program would come from monies already available within the college system’s budget.

AMAZING AMENITIES & THE BEST BUILDERS MAKE LIFE A

Located in one of the fastest growing suburbs South of Austin , Crosswinds in Kyle is centered around Windy Point Amenity Center. Neighbors can gather for Pickle Ball , Swimming or just relaxing in the Covered Pavilion . Younger residents can let out their energy at the Playground while furry friends run in the Dog Park! Blast!

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BY ERIC WEILBACHER Community 2024 Annual Community Guide

Over the last five years, the populations within the cities of San Marcos, Buda and Kyle have maintained a pattern of growth. The city of Kyle continues to show the fastest increase, outpacing San Marcos, Buda and Hays County as a whole. Since 2000, Kyle has grown by more than 660% when its population was around 6,000 residents. San Marcos, Kyle and Buda area snapshot

Buda

San Marcos

Kyle

SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2022 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5-YEAR ESTIMATES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Population change

Age analysis

21.4% 50.7% 14.7% 11% 2.2% 25.2

29.9% 28.3% 27.2% 13.8% 0.8% 37.3

29.6% 32.9% 24.6% 11.5% 1.4% 33.2

0-19

59,935

36,929

2017

13,253

20-39

67,143

48,484

2022

14,997

40-59

60-79

5-year population change

80+

+12%

+31.29%

+13.16%

Median age

+25.92%

Texas: +6.65%

Hays County:

Local demographics*

2022

2017 31.88%

2022 31.92%

2017

2022

2017

Hispanic or Latino White Black or African American American Indian or Alaska native Asian Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander Some other race Two or more races

41.89% 44.88%

44.54% 47.89%

51.73%

41.84%

48.75%

60.07%

63.82%

39.78%

5.23% 0.16% 1.88% 0.01% 0.05% 2.08%

5.7% 0.2%

3.83%

5.01%

4.36%

0% 0.33%

0.11% 0.76%

0.15% 1.03%

2.25%

2.24% 0.01% 1.45% 3.63%

0.15% 1.82%

0.82% 2.11%

0.02% 1.78%

0.44% 2.51%

*ALL CATEGORIES LISTED ARE RACES, EXCEPT FOR HISPANIC OR LATINO, WHICH IS NOT A RACE. HOWEVER, THE PERCENTAGES OF THE RACES LISTED DO NOT INCLUDE HISPANIC OR LATINO RESIDENTS.

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Community

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN & SIERRA MARTIN

5 Mexican restaurants that opened in 2023 Tex-Mex and Mexican restaurants continue to open along the I-35 corridor, with more than five opening in the San Marcos, Buda and Kyle areas in 2023. Zooming in Each restaurant offers its own blend of flavors inspired from Mexico, with a local twist. Menu items include the Buda Taco at Taco Clem, which comes with carne guisada, potatoes, bacon, cheese and pico de gallo. Located in San Marcos, Balcón serves the Gobernador Taco that comes with cheese, shrimp, pico de gallo and house salsa. The following listings are based on trends Com- munity Impact staff identified through monthly Impacts section reporting in 2023.

G H T

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Jorge’s Mexican Restaurant 2550 Hunter Road, Ste. 1106, San Marcos www.jorges-mexican-restaurant.com

Torchy’s Tacos 19100 S. I-35, Kyle www.torchystacos.com

Pollo Campero 19000 I-35, Kyle https://us.campero.com

Taqueria Chapala 16649 S. I-35, Buda www.taqueriachapalarestaurant.com

Balcón 407 South Stagecoach Trail, Ste. 201, San Marcos 512-749-1028

SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366

CREEKSIDE TOWN CENTER 263 Creekside Crossing (830) 608-1969

SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 IH-35 Service Rd S (512) 280-7400

NEW BRAUNFELS 1671 IH-35 S (830) 629-0434

Transportation

BY KATY MCAFEE

Buda and Hays County leaders unveiled the pre- liminary routes for the SH 45 completion project at the city’s second open house Dec. 7. The project, dubbed the SH 45 “gap” project, would fill a nearly 4-mile gap of SH 45 between I-35 and RM 1626 near the Travis and Hays county line. The favored route selected by project managers will cause no residential or commercial displace- ments and has a shorter flood plain crossing over Onion and Garlic creeks, according to the project plans. Buda and Hays County leaders unveiled the pre- liminary routes for the SH 45 completion project at the city’s second open house Dec. 7. The backstory SH 45 was originally pitched in the ‘80s as the “Outer Austin Parkway” that circled Austin; however, the full project was never realized due to financial constraints and environmental concerns, said Stacey Benningfield, the SH 45 project man- ager and longtime transportation professional. “What has happened over time is that bits and pieces have been constructed,” Benningfield said. “This is the remaining gap. And it’s just now rising to the point of being studied.” The context The SH 45 gap project has raised alarm bells from locals and Travis County leaders since a feasibility study was approved in August 2022. Opponents of the project cited it would harm the Edwards Aquifer and reroute an influx of truck traffic on MoPac. SH 45 gap project routes identified

The recommended route The SH 45 gap project will cause no commercial or residential displacements and have a shorter floodplain compared to other routes. If the project advances, engineers will conduct a 3-5 year environmental study.

Manchaca

recommended preliminary route

Onion Creek

environmental study area

1626

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Buda

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

SOURCES: CITY OF BUDA, HAYS COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Benningfield said a portion of the roadway would be built over the aquifer’s transition zone, a less-sensitive area compared to the recharge zone where the western portion of SH 45 is already built. Benningfield and her team are still researching how to build the roadway in the most “environ- mentally sensitive” way possible. If the project advances to the next planning stage, it will undergo 3-5 years of environmental studies and investigations. What’s next In the coming months, Benningfield and her team will undergo a traffic impact analysis to

understand how filling the gap will impact traffic on MoPac and other local roadways. The study will be completed in late spring or early summer 2024 and be presented to the public at a third open house. “The study that we're doing is looking at the feasibility [and trying] to assess whether the project actually has wings, so to speak, and whether there's an interest in momentum in order to advance this.” STACEY BENNINGFIELD, SH 45 PROJECT MANAGER

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Real estate

78610 Number of homes sold

November 2022

November 2023

Residential market data

November data released by the Four Rivers Association of Realtors Dec. 15 shows median home prices slightly dipped and the average days a home spent on the market increased.

+44.7%

78640

78610

102

+49%

78640

152

78666

+75.4%

107

Median home sales price

2022

2023

78610

-11.1%

$390,178

$438,950

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY FOUR RIVERS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS 8306256954 WWW.FOURRIVERSREALTORS.COM

78640

-5%

$331,390

$348,953

78666

+0.6%

$346,020

$343,944

Dell Children’s is home to the Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease, which means we offer the most advanced heart care for children in the region. Led by world-renowned pediatric heart surgeons, we performed 375 open-heart surgeries in the past year, and over the past two years, have completed 17 heart transplants. Our care team is dedicated to your child’s care whether your child has congenital heart disease or needs care for another rare or complex heart condition. We’re also close by, which means your family doesn’t need to travel outside of Central Texas. Start a conversation with a

The most advanced pediatric heart care in the region

pediatric heart specialist today. ascension.org/DellChildrens

Only in Austin . Only at Dell Children’s .

MAKENZIE Dell Children’s patient

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Come experience a worry free lifestyle

At Sage Spring Senior Living, we take pride in assisting you and your loved ones with the changes a new season of life can bring. The intentional care our team provides to each res- ident fosters a space for a worry-free lifestyle and a supportive community to bloom. Your loved one deserves the best care, and you deserve peace of mind knowing they’re in good hands. At Sage Spring, our Assisted Living and Generations Memory Care programs are designed to help our residents live a vibrant life by connecting

with the people and campus around them. Don’t just take our word for it –

experience it yourself! Call (512) 270�8668 or visit

SageSpringSeniorLiving.com to schedule a personalized tour today.

802 LEAH AVENUE, SAN MARCOS, TX 78666

JOIN OUR TEAM HIRING EVENT JANUARY 31 3PM - 6PM CASA MARIA 22604 IH35, KYLE TX 78640 Calling all Surgical Techs, RNs, Radiology, Nuc Med, and Mammo Techs We have exciting opportunities waiting for you! CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – San Marcos

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

From the cover

$39M extension of FM 110 opens

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

The impact

The details

Luján explained that the new roadway has additional intersections at Yarrington Road and additional trac signals on SH 21 near the FM 110 bridge. “We ask drivers to pay attention to road signs as they navigate this area and the new roadway,” Luján said. Luján also said exponential growth has increased trac in the San Marcos and Kyle communities, noting that McCarty Lane near FM 110 carries anywhere between 10,000-11,000 cars per day. “FM 110 will provide another route for com- muters to take between both communities rather than the 6-mile stretch of I-35, while also oering access for new development in a fast-growing area,” he said.

of the road worked diligently to manage utility impacts and site conditions amid a signicant drought. The road’s design consisted of several challenges due to the Cottonwood Creek Watershed, which required a bridge over Cottonwood Creek according to engineering rm Binkley & Bareld’s website. “Managing the construction and interaction of the project at the SH 80, SH 21 and I-35 connections required signicant logistics, as well as coordinating the SH 21 overpass construction with the airport,” he added. FM 110 also had to align with the short- and long-term transportation master plans with TxDOT, Hays County and San Marcos for the existing roadways that would intersect.

FM 110 is roughly 11 miles of a new $67.2 million road in Hays County. The north segment makes up 6.5 miles of the full road. Since the north segment’s completion, FM 110 now forms a loop east of I-35. The road has been open for a little over a month and gives motorists an alternate route to avoid trac congestion throughout the I-35 corridor. The south section of the road was completed back in October of 2020. Construction for the middle section of FM 110 began later that same year in March and was completed in October 2021. “As Central Texas continues to grow in population, alternative options will help drivers spend less time on the road, getting to their destinations in less time,” Luján said. He noted that the team leading construction

A needed alternative

Use of the new FM 110 loop could help alleviate trac congestion on I-35 as every area in the county saw population increases since 2017, with the largest increase in Hays County. Hays County Population 2017 194,843

FM 110 North - SH 80 to I-35 at Yarrington Road Cost: $39M Timeline: March 2022- December 2023

Kyle

2022

FM 110 Middle - FM 621 to SH 80

245,351

Cost: $13.4M Timeline: March 2020- October 2021

Increase of +25.92%

SAN MARCOS REGIONAL AIRPORT

One more thing

Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said the road was essential for rst responders, public safety and economic development. “It will help move people and product more quickly and easily through our county,” Becerra said in an email to Community Impact . According to the county’s website, two additional travel lanes and additional interchanges will be constructed as trac continues to increase in the area.

FALCON SKY PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

San Marcos

110

FM 110 South - SH 123 to FM 621 Cost: $14.8M Timeline: July 2019- October 2020

123

621

SAN MARCOS HIGH SCHOOL

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Events

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

areas. Participants are encouraged to dress semi-formal. The deadline to purchase tickets is Feb. 2. • Feb. 9, 6-10 p.m. • $20 • San Marcos Activity Center, 501 E. Hopkins St., San Marcos • www.sanmarcostx.gov/1483/golden-sweethearts-ball Me & My Guy Dance 2024 Young ladies or gentlemen can invite their favorite guy to a semi-formal evening lled with dancing and music. There will also be treats and keepsakes. Registration is now open. • Feb. 10, 6-9 p.m. • $6 • San Marcos Activity Center, 501 E. Hopkins St., San Marcos • www.sanmarcostx.gov/1250/winter-events Fuentes Elementary Race for the Stars 5K and 1K This race will be hosted by For the Love of Go and is raising money to send Fuentes Elementary School fourth graders on a three-day, two-night trip to Camp Champions. • Feb. 10, 8 a.m. • $15-$20 • Fuentes Elementary, 901 Philomena Drive, Kyle • www.fortheloveofgo.com/calendar

February

Buda Art Brawl 2024 This event is a high-speed painting competition. There will be three, 20-minute timed rounds and eight artists who will compete to produce their best work. There will also be live and silent auctions. The competition’s winner will have a solo gallery show and a grand prize. • Feb. 3, 7 p.m. • Entry fee varies • Inspired Minds Art Center, 121 Main St., Buda • www.inspiredminds.art Mardi Gras Martini Happy Hour and Silent Auction There will be martinis, appetizers, jazz music and a silent auction. All proceeds will benet the Heritage Association of San Marcos. • Feb. 8, 5-7 p.m. • $20 (online), $25 (at door) • Hays County Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio St., San Marcos • www.heritagesanmarcos.org 23rd Annual Golden Sweethearts Ball This Valentine celebration is an elegant dance welcoming all singles and couples from the surrounding

Spark Love 5K For The Love of Go and Ancora Ministries will host this third annual 5K. All proceeds will go toward investing in the health and nutrition of Central Texans as well as Guatemalan families and children. Participants are encouraged to wear fun socks and sparkly clothing. Dogs and strollers will be admitted free of charge. • Feb. 17, 8 a.m. • $15-$20 • Wallace Middle School, 1500 Center St., Kyle • www.fortheloveofgo.com/calendar

Advertise in the Spring Camp Guide

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Business

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Abuelita’s Bakery Spot oers conchas with dierent designs and themes, such as Hello Kitty.

COURTESY ABUELITA’S BAKERY SPOT

Abuelita's Bakery Spot sells fresh empanadas.

COURTESY ABUELITA’S BAKERY SPOT

Abuelita’s Bakery Spot oers “valley style” pastries Abuelita’s Bakery Spot, owned by brother-sister duo Hector and Vanessa Rodriguez, is putting a modern twist on traditional Mexican pastries. The background let’s bring that style of what we grew up on in the valley and bring it here and show people the bread that we grew up on and how it should taste,” Vanessa Rodriguez said.

Owners Hector and Vanessa Rodriguez.

AMIRA VAN LEEUWENCOMMUNITY IMPACT

“We hope that when people come in, they come in with an open mind that it is not a traditional Hispanic bakery where it’s an open case,” she said. The details The bakery specializes in fresh mini-pas- tries, such as mini-conchas, mini-empanadas, mini-bunuelos and mini-marranitos. Abuelita’s Bakery Spot oers catering for wed- dings, meetings, birthday parties and quinceane- ras and now oers shipping services throughout the United States.

1626

Abuelita’s Bakery Spot began as a cottage baking venture in December 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. In September of 2021, the at-home bakery opened a food truck before moving into its current brick-and-mortar space at the Kyle Windmill Center in June 2022. Part of the bakery’s branding is “valley style,” because the owners are originally from Edinburg, located in the Rio Grande Valley region, and wanted to bring “valley style” to Kyle. “When we moved over here, we were like,

150

21511 I-35 Frontage Road, Kyle www.abuelitasbakeryspot.com

Limited spaces still available for ages 3-5 and our afterschool program

OPENING FEBRUARY 2024

Scan for more info or Enroll now

• 3 proprietary, developmentally appropriate curriculums • Before/ After School Program with busses for elementary school pick up • Supported by a Cognia Accredited Franchise Company

CURRICULUM SAFE, CLEAN, SECURE TEACHING AND STAFF BRAND NEW FACILITY TECHNOLOGY

• Secured building via keycode entry system • Zono sanitizing machine • Rigorous cleaning procedures

• Spacious, bright classrooms in a brand-new facility • 3 age-appropriate playgrounds and a Splashpad • Convenient location close to families • Structured onboarding program and training procedures • Experienced leadership team • Passionate, caring teachers and staff • Daily contact with teachers through online tools • Real-time video monitoring (optional program)

1190 Veterans Drive Kyle TX 78640 | 737-377-1233

Open 6:30am to 6:30pm | Family owned and operated | Nutritious meals and snacks provided

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Cheap @$$ Hour Monday - Friday 3pm - 5pm $3 DOMESTIC PINTS $4 CRAFT PINTS $6 FROZENS $4 OFF MEXICAN MARTINIS $3 OFF ALL APPETIZERS

Virtually flip through any e-edition! Enhance your experience with hyperlinked stories and ads.

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 512.722.3905 | www.HAYSCITYSTORETX.com

DOWNTOWN BUDA NOW OPEN Lunch Dinner and Weekend Brunch Happy Hour 7 Days a Week 4 -6 offering discounted oysters, apps, and cocktails, beer and wine.

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AUTHENTIC, FAMILY-ORIENTED BBQ - CATERING & BARTENDER SERVICES GREAT BBQ BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER

Kiss your dental fears goodbye!

of raid of the Den r Fears. DS 2019 of 2020 TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 2601 HUNTER RD, SAN MARCOS, TX 78666 512-938-1019 35 50% of Americans Are Afraid of the Dentist We Understand, and Cater to Your Fears. 12 N TUESDAY - SUNDAY 11AM - 7PM CLOSED MONDAYS BUY 1 GET 1 FREE SAUSAGE LINK Shipping your favorite BBQ COMING SOON! 1701 INTERSTATE 35 SOUTH, SAN MARCOS, TX 78666 512-667-9779 12 123 N 35 soon moving to 500 River Rd in Wimberley. Exp date 2/20/2024 ntist ntist J. Robert Donnelly, DDS J. Robert Donnelly, DDS Gregory Wang, DDS SanMarcosDental.com J. Robert Donnelly, DDS Gustavo O. Leal, DDS www. SanMarcosDental .com At San Marcos Gentle Dental we offer many amenities to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your visit. SanMarcosDental .com At San Marcos Gentle Dental we offer many amenities to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your visit. 50% of Americans Are Afraid of the Dentist We Understand, and Cater to Your Fears We Understand, and Cater to Your Fears. 50% of Americans Are Afraid of the Dentist We Understand, and Cater to Your Fears Dental Exam & X-Ray New Patient Cleaning, Exam & X-Rays J. Robert Donnelly, DDS Gregory Wang, DDS Gustavo O. Leal, DDS

Welcome Dental Exam & X-Ray $29 00 New Patient Only Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide for Your Comfort • Emergencies Seen Same Day • New Patients Welcome • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol San Marcos Gentle Dental 1337 Thorpe Lane San Marcos, TX 512-396-5225 • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide for Your Comfort • Emergencies Seen Same Day • New Patients Welcome • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol San Marcos Gentle Dental 1337 Thorpe Lane San Marcos, TX 512-396-5225

CALL TODAY! 512-396-5225 New Patient Cleaning, Exam & X-Rays $69 00 New Patient Only Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. 50% of Americans Are Afraid of the Dentist We Understand, and Cater to Your Fears. $500 OFF $300 OFF Invisalign Implant Placement Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. New Patients Only Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. J. Robert Donnelly, DDS Gustavo O. Leal, DDS www. SanMarcosDental .com At San Marcos Gentle Dental we offer many amenities to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your visit. 82 N At San Marcos Gentle Dental we offer many amenities to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your visit. New Patient Only Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. J. Robert Donnelly, DDS Gustavo O. Leal, DDS www. SanMarcosDental .com At San Marcos Gentle Dental we offer many amenities to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your visit. At San Marcos Gentle Dental we offer many amenities to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your visit. 82 New Patient Only Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. 50% of Americans Are Afraid of the Dentist We Understand, and Cater to Your Fears. Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. Offer Good for 60 Days. 82 82 N 82 82

We Have Treated Patients Who Have Had: • Negative Dental Experiences • Problems Getting Numb • No Treatment for Many Years • Needle Phobia We Have Treated Patients Who Have Had: • Negative Dental Experiences • Problems Getting Numb • No Treatment for Many Years • Needle Phobia

21-acre ranch Brewery • Farm to Table Restaurant • Live Music • Private Events

• Sedation & Nitrous Oxide for Your Comfort • Emergencies Seen Same Day • New Patients Welcome • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol San Marcos Gentle Dental 1337 Thorpe Lane San Marcos, TX 512-396-5225 tal .com Spring Way Spring Way Spring Way 82 82 35 N Care credit • Citi Health Card • Checks welcome 6 months same as cash (with approved credit) Care credit • Citi Health Card • Checks welcome 6 months same as cash (with approved credit) Care credit • Citi Health Card • Checks welcome 6 months same as cash (with approved credit) Care credit • Citi Health Card • Checks welcome 6 months same as cash (with approved credit) Care credit • Citi Health Card • Checks welcome 6 months same as cash (with approved credit) • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide • Emergencies seen same day • New Patients Welcome • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • Same Day Crowns • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide for Your Comfort • Emergencies Seen Same Day • New Patients Welcome • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol San Marcos Gentle Dental 1337 Thorpe Lane San Marcos, TX 512-396-5225 82 82 35 N • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide • Emergencies seen same day • New Patients Welcome • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • Same Day Crowns • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide for Your Comfort • Sedation & Nitrous Oxide • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • No Drill Laser Dentistry • Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Se Habla Espanol 82 82 35 Care credit • Citi Health Card • Checks welcome 6 months same as cash (with approved credit) SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

We Have Treated Patients Who Have Had: • Negative Dental Experiences • Problems Getting Numb • No Treatment for Many Years • Needle Phobia We have treated patients who have had: • Negative dental experiences • Problems getting numb • No treatment for many years • Needle Phobia We Have Treated Patients Who Have Had: • Negative Dental Experiences • Problems Getting Numb • No Treatment for Many Years • Needle Phobia We have treated patients who have had: • Negative dental experiences • Problems getting numb • No treatment for many years • Needle Phobia We have treated patients who have had: • Negative dental experiences • Problems getting numb • No treatment for many years

Fresh Air & Fresh Beer In Driftwood Texas bring The Family and Enjoy Some

Spring Spring Spring Wa

35 82

kids eat free wednesdays Just mention you saw us in community impact. one free kid’s meal with purchase of adult meal.

WED - THU 4 - 9 pm • FRI 2 - 9 pm • SAT 12 - 9 pm • SUN 11 - 7 pm

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