North Central Austin Edition | November 2025

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North Central Austin Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 8 DEC. 2DEC. 31, 2025

2025 Volunteer Guide

CapMetro evolves as habits shift

INSIDE

Also in this issue

Election

Page 11

See results from the Nov. 4 election

Dining

Page 24

Discover Southern cooking at Carpenters Hall

Passengers gather at a CapMetro stop as the agency revises its bus services to reect changing commuter patterns. (Haley McLeod/Community Impact)

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About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Katlynn Fox Dacia Garcia Manuel Holguin Jr. Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Joel Valley Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss Abigail Jones Sabrina Musachia Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Amareth Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara

Krista Box General Manager kbox@ communityimpact.com

Elle Bent Editor ebent@ communityimpact.com

Travis Baker Austin Market President tbaker@ communityimpact.com

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Impacts North Central Austin

4 Flourish Plant Shop & Wine Bar The new business presents by the glass and by the bottle menus which rotate through over two dozen whites, reds and sparkling wines while the plant shop features

ROCKWOOD LN. 2

183

NORTHLAND DR.

botanical options. • Opened Oct. 24

360

9 17

183

• 5003 Airport Blvd., Austin • www.flourish-austin.com

AIRPORT BLVD.

5 The Halfway Market The joint market and cafe is the latest concept by Barley Bean co-founder and CEO Mohit Mehra. The Halfway Market sells groceries and convenience items. • Opened Oct. 31 • 2805 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin • www.barleybean.com; Facebook: Halfway Market 6 Cambridge Caregivers The Dallas-based senior in-home care provider has launched its Austin location under the operation of husband and wife duo Gary and Tammy Hooker. Care giving services include Alzheimer’s and dementia care, respite care, companion care for seniors and more. • Opened Nov. 3 • 3303 Northland Drive, Ste. 216, Austin • www.cambridgecaregivers.com 7 Mendocino Farms The fast casual restaurant is now serving seasonal sandwiches and salads crafted with fresh ingredients. The company operates locations across Houston and Dallas. • Opened Nov. 4 • 1106 W. 38th St., Austin • www.mendocinofarms.com 8 Guad Haus The meeting and event space features conference rooms, a hidden speakeasy, an outdoor lounge and a coffee nook. • Opened Nov. 12 • 6201 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.guadhaus.com

SHOAL CREEK BLVD.

E. HIGHLAND MALL BLVD.

11 12

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N. LAMAR BLVD.

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MANOR RD.

CURTIS AVE.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

SAN JACINTO BLVD.

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183 Austinites Mardy and Jeff Chen, PURE has grown since opening its first studio in 2001, with locations now in Austin, Cedar Park, and Dallas. • Opened in September • 8620 Burnet Road, Ste. 132, Austin • www.pureyogatexas.com 3 Tapville Social The self-pour taproom experience offers a menu featuring sliders, chicken wings, pasta, bowls, fish and chips and more. • Opened in September • 1836 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin • www.tapvillesocial.com

Now open

71 2 PURE Yoga Texas After closing its Anderson Lane location in mid- August, the yoga studio reopened in September across Rockwood Lane from Waterloo Ice House. Founded by 1 Little Tipsy Customers can find wine, non-alcoholic beverages, caviar and flowers at the new shop. • Opened in September • 724 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.littletipsy.wine

OPAC

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cocktails such as the Ristretto Martini and the Kistune as well as offer small bites including Toasted Ravioli. • Opened Nov. 13 • 7001 Burnet Road, No. 1102, Austin • www.foxtailaustin.com 10 Mantle Thermal Haus The new wellness center offers a hot sauna and natural- stone cold plunge pool alongside a fire-lit lounge, red- light recovery lounge and coffee and smoothie bar. • Opened Nov. 22

Now open

• 2204 Curtis Ave., Austin • www.mantlethermal.com

Coming soon

14 Jo’s Coffee The coffee shop has debuted its ninth location which is now serving tacos, pastries, coffee and more beverages in West Campus. • Opened Nov. 7 • 701 W. 24th St., Austin • www.joscoffee.com

17 Mama Betty’s Tex-Mex The Austin-based restaurant launched its second location, featuring dine-in service, an indoor and outdoor bar, private dining space and an outdoor patio. • Opened Nov. 13 • 7001 Burnet Road, No. 1101, Austin • www.ilovemamabettys.com

11 Gevity Founded by Austinites, Connor and Espoir Michalek, the latest wellness workspace and social club is getting ready to offer the community workspaces, a gym and class studio, recovery zones, a sauna, cold plunge and more. • Opening Dec. 1 • 104 E. Highland Mall Blvd., Ste. 125 , Austin • www.livegevity.co 12 Alchemy Organics Alongside the opening of wellness workspace Gevity, the all-day café will serve organic juices, espresso, matcha, bone broth, sandwiches, protein bowls, baked goods and grab-and-go items. This will be the company’s fifth location. • Opening Dec. 1 • 104 E. Highland Mall Blvd., Ste. 125 , Austin • www.alchemyorganics.com 13 Wow Poke Wow Poke could open its first brick-and-mortar restaurant in North Austin, according to a representative of the business. The eatery is known for its create-your-own or house poke bowls with various toppings such as salmon, tuna, avocado, edamame, furikake or spicy ponzu sauce. • Opening in November • 7433 Burnet Road, Austin • Instagram: @wowpoke

15 Big Al’s Pizza The owners behind the Hank’s Austin restaurant, bar and cafe will open a pizza shop next door. The business will serve New York-style pizza offered whole and by the slice alongside salads and appetizers. • Opening in February • 5811 Berkman Drive, Bldg. H, Austin • www.bigalsaustin.com 16 Flowhouse The studio will offer dance and fitness classes for children and adults of all skill levels, including barre, pilates and yoga instruction. The family-friendly business will provide child care and workspaces for parents. Owner Monica Chin is a former NBA dancer for the San Antonio Spurs who has over 25 years or experience teaching dance, including directing

choreography for the Austin Spurs. • Opening in the spring • 4100 E. 51st St., Austin • Website not yet available

In the news

18 Fin’s First Thom’s Market is now known as Fin’s First—after a brief stint as Austin Select Market. Under new ownership, the store will continue offering its collection of locally- sourced foods and products, the name a nod to new owner Rofin Maknojia. • 1418 Barton Springs Road, Austin; 160 E. Riverside Drive, Austin; 5901 Burnet Road, Austin • Instagram: @finsfirstmarket

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Government

BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON

City cleanup initiative ends after state sweeps A three-week city initiative to clear dozens of encampments ended Nov. 8 on the heels of a sep- arate state operation to remove homeless people from public areas in Austin. What happened Multiple Austin departments coordinated to pri- oritize dozens of clean-ups and connect homeless residents with resources and shelter under the city-led program. Gray said the eort was meant to get ahead of impacts from severe weather and a cold winter season. It concluded Nov. 3-8 with a focus on “harder-to-reach” public land deeper in city greenbelts, parks, and nature preserves. The initiatives took place under a 2021 state law that bans camping in public, as well as Austin’s local camping ban reinstated by city voters the same year.

Austin-San Antonio rail study launched Travis County ocials approved a $124,953 feasibility study exploring commuter rail options between Austin and San Antonio. The big picture The study into the initiative will evaluate passenger rail options on state-managed land along major highways, including existing rail infrastructure, with potential service options from the Amtrak station in San Antonio to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The theoretical path would run from downtown Austin to the east along Hwy. 71 past the airport, south down SH 130 and west into San Antonio along I-10. The study is currently only expected to look at SH 130 and I-10.

Austin Resource Recovery crews addressed hundreds of encampments this fall.

Encampment response

• 669 encampments cleaned • 1,212 people found at encampments

• 181 moved to shelters • 87 connected to services

• 1.35M pounds/ 673.86 tons of debris removed • 71 citations and 22 arrests

CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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10/23/25 9:31 AM

Election

BY BEN THOMPSON

Austin budget cuts advance after election

Budget revisions Approved budget (Aug.)

Revised budget (Nov.)

Public safety $1.00B $990.94M

Austin leaders moved to adopt a downsized fiscal year 2025-26 budget in November after voters rejected a tax hike. What happened Proposition Q, the ballot measure for a property tax rate above the city’s voter-approval limit, failed in the Nov. 4 election. That result lowered Austin’s tax rate, reducing the city budget. The owner of a median-valued home in Aus- tin—estimated at $494,803 this fiscal year—can still expect to pay just over $100 more in property taxes; Proposition Q would’ve added a more than $300 annual increase. Utility bills and other city charges are also expected to rise by about $115 this year for the typical resident, city officials said. Austinites won’t face another tax rate election, or TRE, in the near future due to a city policy limiting TREs to every four years unless the city faces a “financial emergency.”

The approach In July, City Manager T.C. Broadnax outlined a draft budget that City Council later increased by more than $100 million to fund various public pro- grams, using projected added tax revenue. After the election, a revised budget recommendation cutting most spending planned under Proposition Q was produced for consideration Nov. 7. A final spending plan was set for approval in late November, after press time. One more thing The election outcome renewed calls for a deep dive into city spending. Mayor Kirk Watson suggested an audit of city services and Broadnax outlined several government efficiency processes. Officials are also voting to reign in their expenses by reforming council spending policies, and to adopt new financial reporting and best practices ahead of future annual budgeting reviews.

-1.10%

Parks, libraries, animal services $247.13M $241.89M

-2.12%

Public health, homelessness, social services $185.9M $150.05M -19.29%

Transfers/other $107.12M $64.72M

-39.58%

Housing and Planning $25.96M $25.29M

-2.56%

Arts and culture $11.08M $10.88M

-1.80%

NOTE: REVISED BUDGET SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER PRESS TIME.

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY HANNAH NORTON & BEN THOMPSON

Austin voters reject tax increase Austin voters rejected Proposition Q, a 20% tax rate increase, by a nearly two-to-one margin. The outcome dropped the city tax rate by 5 cents, although it’s still about 10% higher than last year’s. The election also led city officials to cut the fiscal year 2025-26 budget they approved in August (see Page 10).

Constitutional amendments results breakdown

89.28% 10.72% Proposition 10: Tax exemption for homes destroyed by fire Passed For Against

69.03% 30.97% Proposition 1: Texas State Technical College Funding

Proposition 11: Homestead exemption for elderly and disabled homeowners

Proposition 2: Ban on capital gains taxes

65.37%

34.63%

77.68%

22.32%

Proposition 3: Tightening bail rules 61.14% Proposition 4: Water supply funding 70.42%

Proposition 12: Judicial oversight 61.90%

38.86%

38.10%

Proposition 13: Increasing the homestead exemption 79.41% 20.59% Proposition 14: State dementia research institute 68.57% 31.43%

29.58%

Proposition 5: Animal feed tax exemption 63.61%

36.39%

Proposition 6: Ban on securities transaction taxes 58.87% 45.13% Proposition 7: Tax exemption for military spouses 86.25%

Proposition 15: Parental rights 69.87%

Austin Prop. Q results

30.13%

Proposition 16: Requiring citizenship to vote 71.95% Proposition 17: Border security tax exemption 57.42% 42.58%

13.8%

For

Against

28.05%

Proposition 8: Ban on death taxes 72.22% Proposition 9: Business tax exemption 65.05%

Proposition Q 62,952 109,375

27.78%

All 17 propositions on the ballot passed

34.96%

SOURCE: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: HAYS COUNTY, TRAVIS COUNTY, WILLIAMSON COUNTY/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

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Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

183

Upcoming projects

Ongoing projects

290

W. KOENIG LN.

1 South Lamar Boulevard mobility program Project: The city of Austin is adding mobility, safety and connectivity improvements along South Lamar Boulevard between Riverside Drive and Hwy. 290. Update: Construction along roughly 3 miles of South Lamar Boulevard will see mobility improvements, including bike and pedestrian facilities, intermittent medians, intersection improvements and upgraded traffic signals, according to city documents. • Timeline: construction expected to begin early 2026 • Cost: $60.5 million • Funding source: 2016 Mobility Bonds 2 Avenue Urban Design Initiative, or CAUDI Project: Redesign of Congress Avenue in the heart of downtown Austin to create a more pedestrian friendly, multimodal configuration. The first construction phase focuses on Cesar Chavez Street to Seventh Street, expanding sidewalks, adding pedestrian amenity zones, upgrading bikeway barriers and adding turn lanes for vehicle traffic. Update: Construction is expected to begin early 2026, according to a recent update from the city. • Timeline: Phase 1 2026-27; full project 2026-30 • Cost: Phase 1 $13 million; full project $29 million • Funding source: 2012 and 2020 Mobility Bonds 183

LAKE AUSTIN BLVD.

N. LAMAR BLVD.

E. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD.

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3 I-35 Capital Express Central project Project: The $4.5 billion I-35 overhaul will add two nontolled HOV lanes along the 8-mile stretch from Hwy. 290 to Hwy. 71. Update: The Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard bridge will be reconstructed and widened. This segment will also add sidewalks, shade structures and safety barriers along the bridge, and reconstruct entrance and exit ramps.

BARTON SPRINGS RD.

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290

PORTER ST.

• Timeline: 2024-26 • Cost: $34.4 million • Funding source: TxDOT, CAMPO

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

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Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

TxDOT spends $748M to burrow tunnels under Central Austin

The Texas Department of Transpor- tation is set to launch one of Austin’s largest underground construction projects in 2026, digging 6.5 miles of 22-foot-wide drainage tunnels beneath the city’s busiest highway. Explained As part of the I-35 overhaul, which will lower sections of the highway below ground level, officials will build underground tunnels to prevent flooding. Plans show the tunnels would extend along I-35 from 45th Street down to Cesar Chavez Street, then veer east on Cesar Chavez and end near US 183 by Lady Bird Lake. Boring crews will drill nine drop shafts along the proposed tunnel

route in phases. The first tunnel boring machine will be deployed near Airport Boulevard in 2026. Once the drop shafts are completed two boring machines will begin cutting tunnels between each. Contractor Sak & Shea will oversee the $748 million project, which is being funded by TxDOT and federal dollars obtained by the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization. What residents should know Construction work will be done around the clock and is expected to generate dust and cause some vibra- tion in the area. Temporary sound walls have been erected. The entire project completion is estimated for 2029.

I-35 drainage tunnels

A Airport Boulevard drop shaft B Hancock drop shaft C 15th Street drop shaft D Edgewood drop shaft E 11th Street drop shaft F Cesar Chavez drop shaft G Brushy Street drop shaft H River Street drop shaft I US 183 drop shaft Pump station Drainage tunnel

HANCOCK RECREATION CENTER

EDGEWOOD AVE.

RED RIVER ST.

NAVASOTA ST.

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RIVER ST.

183

COLORADO RIVER

LADY BIRD LAKE

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Education

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Austin ISD to hold off on 3 school closures The Austin ISD board of trustees will no longer vote to close Palm, Bryker Woods and Maplewood elementaries in November. Additionally, the district will postpone any proposed attendance boundary changes until next year, excluding those related to interven- tion at failing schools, Superintendent Matias Segura announced in a letter to families on the evening of Nov. 4. The announcement follows weeks of protesting from AISD parents, staff and students against the district’s initial plan to close 13 schools and rezone most campuses. The update On Nov. 20, the AISD board will move forward with voting on the closure of 10 of the 13 campuses it initially proposed to close next school year. Seven of these campuses have received three

Schools proposed to close: Where students will go: Barrington Elementary Guerrero-Thompson, Wooldridge elementaries Becker Elementary Galindo or Zilker elementaries Dawson Elementary Galindo Elementary Oak Springs Elementary Blackshear Elementary Ridgetop Elementary Reilly Elementary Sunset Valley Elementary Boone, Cunningham elementaries Widen Elementary Rodriguez Elementary Winn Montessori Andrews, Pecan Springs elementaries Bedichek Middle School Covington, Paredes, Mendez middle schools Martin Middle School Kealing, Marshall, Lively middle schools

Former AISD School slated for housing Austin ISD’s former Rosedale School campus in North Austin could be developed into a six-story apartment complex. Residents living near the property shared concerns about the building causing safety and traffic hazards. OHT Partners has proposed building a 435-unit, market-rate apartment complex spanning six stories with a parking garage at 2117 W. 49th St., Austin.

SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Events

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Zilker Tree Lighting The 155-foot tree’s 3,909 lights will come to life right after Thanksgiving on Nov. 30. Attendees can look forward to live music, entertainment and food. • Nov. 30, 5:15 p.m. • Free • 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin • www.austintexas.gov/ department/zilker-holiday-tree

Blue Genie Art Bazaar Every year, Blue Genie Art Bazaar offers Austinites a selection of locally crafted goods such as paintings, journals, soaps and candles during the holiday season. The market is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

• Nov. 14-Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. • Free • 6100 Airport Blvd., Austin • www.bluegenieartbazaar.com

addition to a selection of local vendors, the market will also feature a festive-themed cocktail lounge. • Nov. 20-Dec. 24, times vary • Free (admission)

marking the 25th anniversary of artistic director Stephen Mills’ version of the holiday classic. • Dec. 5-23; times vary • $25-135 (tickets) • 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin • www.balletaustin.org Luminations Community members can enjoy winter lights across the center’s Central Gardens as well as immersive projections, holiday-themed cocktails and more. • Dec. 5-Jan. 3, 5:45-7:45 p.m. (entry times) • Free (ages 2 and under); $13-$20 (ages 3-12); $23-$30 (ages 13 and up) • 4801 La Crosse Ave., Austin • www.wildflower.org/luminations 37th Street Lights The annual display from a group of neighbors will be on from sunset to 10pm this holiday season. The neighborhood lights also feature a “Stuffed Animal Petting Zoo.” • Dec. 12-Jan. 1; sunset to 10pm • Free • 519 W. 37th St., Austin • https://thirtyseventhstreetlights.github.io/ Tio Toto Live The interactive kid-music event will take place at Cherrywood Coffeehouse. Featuring bubbles and a banana piano, the event listing says it is for toddlers, preschoolers and the adults who love them. • Dec. 21, 10-11 a.m. • Free • 1400 E 38th ½ Street, Austin • www.tiototo.com

November

'A Charlie Brown Christmas’ The Zach Theater is putting on a production of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” which follows Charlie Brown and his friends as Charlie searches for the meaning of Christmas. • Nov. 7-Dec. 28, show times vary • $30-$44 • 1426 W. Riverside Drive, Austin • www.zachtheater.org Rockin’ Around the Rooftops Holiday Bar Crawl Five Austin bars are collaborating to throw Austin’s third annual Rockin’ Around the Rooftops Holiday Bar Crawl. Participants can start the crawl at Upstairs at Caroline, Azul Rooftop, Otopia, Edge Rooftop or Zanzibar. Guests who get their crawl card punched by all five bars will earn a $50 promo card, valid at any of the participating bars.

• 422 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.ohwhatfunatx.com

Mozart’s Lake Austin Festival of Lights Each year, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters hosts a festival of lights, decorating the space with elaborate lights and holiday decor. This year’s festival theme is “Heaven and Nature Sing,” which features a Christmas concert and a fire-dancer waterfront battle from "The Nutcracker." The festival will also include a nautical light show that can be viewed from the main deck or by boat. • Nov. 22-Dec.11, Dec. 21-Jan. 3 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas), show times vary • Ticket prices vary • 3825 Lake Austin Blvd., Austin • www.mozartscoffee.com/pages/festival-of-lights

December

• Nov. 19-Dec. 28 • Free (admission) • 109 E. Seventh Street, Austin • www.rockinaroundtherooftops.com

Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Bass Concert Hall is putting on a 30th anniversary production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” The show has a 2.5-hour run time and features an Oscar- winning score. • Dec. 2-14, show times vary • $36-$180 • 2350 Robert Dedman Drive, Austin • www.texasperformingarts.org ‘The Nutcracker’ Ballet Austin’s 63rd annual production of ‘The Nutcracker’ will return to the Long Center for the Performing Arts with 15 performances this December,

‘A Christmas Carol’ The Zach Theater is hosting a production of “A Christmas Carol,” based on the story by Charles Dickens. • Nov. 19-Jan. 3, show times vary • $46-$127 • 202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.zachtheater.org Oh What Fun! Austin Holiday Market The Oh What Fun! market offers locals a place to shop for holiday gifts and seasonal treats in Central Austin. In

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

CapMetro evolves as habits shift From the cover

MOPAC

Rethinking the ride

Transit access across Austin CapMetro’s service area includes a range of route types that move riders within neighborhoods and across the region.

As CapMetro celebrates its 40th anniversary, the agency isn’t just looking back—it’s looking ahead. Four decades after Austin voters created the transit authority, CapMetro finds itself at a crossroads, navigating a region whose commuting patterns look different than they once did. The rise of hybrid work and the decline of the traditional nine-to-five commuters have forced Austin’s public transit agency to confront the problem of how to adapt a system built for a past era to meet the needs of today’s Central Texans. CapMetro’s Transit Plan 2035, adopted Oct. 20, marks what CEO Dottie Watkins calls a sweeping “recalibration” to create a more equitable and widely used transit system. The plan coincides with the agency’s partner initiative Project Connect—the multibillion dollar build-out of Austin’s voter-approved light rail, which is set to begin construction within the next few years. In Central Austin, reliability and frequency remain large concerns from public transit advocates and users. City Council member Paige Ellis, who also serves on the CapMetro board, said the agency must “get creative” as it works to increasing frequency while managing the costs of operation personnel. CapMetro’s long-term strategy aims to close mobility gaps by bringing access closer to where people live and work. However, providing frequent, fixed-route service remains difficult— especially amid flat sales tax revenue that limits CapMetro’s funding resources, Watkins said. Instead, the agency is leaning on new flexible solutions, such as CapMetro Pickup, an on- demand microtransit service that operates like a shared ride-hail within defined zones. Using smaller vehicles, Pickup helps riders reach bus routes, grocery stores and medical centers, the “last-mile” solution for those that do not live directly near transit stops, agency documents state.

North Austin

Rapid routes

183

1 High frequency 2 Introductory service

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Regular bus routes

3 High frequency bus 4 Bus service to and from Austin along major streets 5 Bus service in outlying areas including crosstown, flex and feeder options

290

183

6 Express, Flyer 7 Express, Flyer

Rail

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Rail Rail shuttle 8 South Congress Transit Center

STATE CAPITOL

183

Austin

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South Austin

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SOURCE: CAPMETRO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

183

Increased frequency

frequency improvements for other corridors, including the Red Line commuter rail in Northwest Austin, which is expected to move from its current varying schedule to a consistent 30-minute all-day service, with extended weekday and Saturday hours in the agency’s five-plus-year outlook.

way to attract riders and keep them using transit. The agency aims to achieve a consistent 10-min- ute frequency on its two newest MetroRapid routes—Route 800 and Route 837, serving East Austin—by next summer. Further ahead, the plan outlines additional

Under Transit Plan 2035, CapMetro plans to increase transit frequency primarily to core high-ridership corridors, specifically focusing on its MetroRapid lines and converting several existing bus routes to run more often. Watkins said frequency is the single most effective

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY MCLEOD

Items worth mentioning

Managing the impact

Beyond filling immediate service gaps, CapMetro is making long-term investments in infrastructure for a more integrated network. In early November, the agency broke ground on its North Burnet Uptown Station along the MetroRail Red Line, which will function as transit-oriented development, or TOD. TODs are designed to create compact, mixed- use, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods centered around multimodal transit hubs. By linking rail with high-frequency bus routes, it cuts transfers and shortens travel times— directly benefiting lower-income commuters who often face long, complicated commuter trips, CapMetro officials said. Project Connect corridors are already attracting

The cast of characters that riders can encounter can range from interesting to scary, said Steve Crossland, Austin resident and regular CapMetro rider. “[Public transit] does have a little bit more of a perceived safety issue,” Crossland said. Watkins emphasized that public transit must not only be safe but also feel safe for it to become a regular option for all residents. In 2021, CapMetro launched a three-pronged public safety program that remains rooted in a community-centered approach, said Gardner Tabon, executive vice president of systemwide accessibility and chief safety offi- cer at CapMetro. The in-house Transit Police Department launched this summer currently consists of 14 active officers. Safety personnel split time roughly 50/50 between proactive “directed patrols” in identified areas with recurring issues and reactive responses to calls for service, Tabon said. Since launching the public safety ini- tiative, the agency has seen a “leveling off” effect in the number of public safety incidents, Tabon said.

The South Congress Transit Center is being designed as a mobility and mixed-use hub.

developers that build housing, offices and enter- tainment destinations, resulting in neighborhoods designed for transit riders, agency officials said. City-level policy changes—like the removal of parking minimums in 2023 and the introduction of new TOD zoning overlays in 2024—are helping expand this approach citywide.

Central Texas commuting trends

Keep in mind

2019 trends

2024 trends

10% 15% 20% 60% 65% 70% 75% 80%

As the culture shifts away from being car-centric, the demand for high-density development around infrastructure will become prevalent, said Lonny Stern, executive director of Central Texas multimodal transportation planning nonprofit Movability. “We need to allow a little bit more commercial in our neighborhoods. We need to make sure that when we build multifamily, it’s walkable,” Stern said. “... We need to make sure that there’s shade structures and trees ... so that if you’re 8 or 80, you enjoy walking around the neighborhood.”

“We are less inclined, when there’s not a crime taking place, to criminalize individuals that are in our system. We’d rather try to

0% 5%

find them a positive path.” GARDNER TABON, CAPMETRO EVP OF SYSTEMWIDE ACCESSIBILITY AND CHIEF SAFETY OFFICER

Drive alone

Work from home

Public transit

Bike Walk Carpool

SOURCE: MOVABILITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Let’s make Austin better, together! Call 3-1-1 or

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512-974-2000 to submit your service requests.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Nonprofit

Volunteer Guide

2025

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas Since 1971, the nonprofit has facilitated mentor-mentee matches. The organization’s mission is to provide the support and guidance youth need to achieve their full potential. • Sample activities: match events, fundraising or event support, mentorships • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, in-kind donations • 4800 Manor Road, Bldg. K, Austin • www.bigmentoring.org Blair Woods Nature Preserve The 10-acre nature preserve provides woodland, riparian and prairie habitat for urban wildlife. • Sample activities: maintaining trails, removing invasive plant species, cleaning the preserve • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 5401 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Austin • https://travisaudubon.org/sanctuaries/blair-woods Caritas of Austin The nonprofit is dedicated to providing homes and tailored services to prevent and end homelessness. • Sample activities: serve lunch; assemble care kits; work with clients; administrative support • Donations accepted: monetary donations, gift cards, snack packs, hygiene packs, winter care kits • 611 Neches St., Austin • www.caritasofaustin.org The Charlie Center The homeless navigation and hospitality center helps individuals move toward permanent housing. • Sample activities: preparing a dish; serve a meal; set-up and clean-up of the center; welcoming clients; helping clients check mail • Donations accepted: items off Amazon wishlist • Mosaic Church, 12675 Research Blvd., Austin • www.thecharliecenter.org/new-page-volunteer

Communities In Schools of Central Texas The nonprofit works with students pre-K through 12th grade to provide support and resources. • Sample activities: meet with a student as a reading buddy, math buddy or mentor; host a supply drive • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, in-kind donations, drives • Located within 55 schools in Austin ISD • www.ciscentraltexas.org Drive a Senior The nonprofit’s mission is to empower older adults by providing transportation and support services. • Sample activities: provide transportation to seniors; Education Connection The nonprofit works to improve childhood literacy rates by offering one-on-one reading support to children. • Sample activities: reading with students, practicing reading fluency, discussing stories and reading • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.education-connection.org Explore Austin The nonprofit empowers economically disadvantaged youth through mentoring and outdoor adventure. • Sample activities: become a youth mentor, work a fundraising event, join the young professionals group, organize warehouse gear, serve breakfast, work a shift during summer wilderness trip season • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, outdoor gear1211 W. Sixth St., Ste. 600, Austin • www.exploreaustin.org help at home with repairs or yard work. • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 2601 Exposition Blvd., Austin • www.driveasenioratx.org

Front Steps The nonprofit provides shelter, affordable housing and education to help residents find stability. • Sample activities: administrative tasks; distribute hygiene kits and blankets; community outreach • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, blankets, coats • 4507 N. I-35 Frontage Road, Austin • www.frontsteps.org Junior Achievement of Central Texas Part of Junior Achievement Worldwide, the Austin chapter offers programs on career readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship to children and young adults. • Sample activities: student mentorship, event setup

and teardown, program presentations • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.jacentex.org

Keep Austin Fed The food rescue organization collects surplus food from businesses and redistributes it to communities. • Sample activities: food rescue driver, food sorting and

organizing, assist with food giveaways • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.keepaustinfed.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas The 30-bedroom home provides a place to stay near the hospital at no cost. • Sample activities: cook and serve meals, help with daily tasks, restocking and assisting with families in need • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 1315 Barbara Jordan Blvd. Ste. 1/2, Austin • www.rmhc-ctx.org This list is not comprehensive.

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Foundation Communities The nonprofit provides affordable homes and free on-site support services. • Sample activities: helping Central Texans file their taxes, manage finances, find insurance plans, learn English, help children with their homework • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 3000 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Ste. 300, Austin • www.foundcom.org

Manos de Cristo The dental practice offers low-cost dental care. The organization also provides adult education programs. In addition, the center operates a food pantry. • Sample activities: support adult learners through

ESL programs, computer and citizenship classes; distribute food; provide dental care • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, food and clothing donations, auction item donations

• 4911 Harmon Ave., Austin • www.manosdecristo.org

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Dining

BY DACIA GARCIA

Carpenters Hall oers communal vibe Located at Carpenter Hotel in South Austin, Carpenters Hall is a space for both travelers and neighbors to taste Southern-inspired cooking. On the menu When the concept rst stepped into the Austin dining scene, General manager Abbey Tillman said it was introduced as a German-inspired beer hall. The restaurant recently launched a new dinner menu in September. Diners can experience new tastes with a seasonally-changing menu. The impact The space is occupied by a range of guests from hotel vacationers looking for a nearby bite to locals working remotely. “We’re very tied into people’s lives without it just being because we’re a hotel and fun property,” Tillman said.

The Pork Schnitzel is a beloved staple at the restaurant and is currently available for 6.

The Carpenter Club includes smoked turkey, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, mojo aioli, sourdough and fries for $23.

COURTESY CARPENTERS HALL

DACIA GARCIACOMMUNITY IMPACT

JOSEPHINE ST.

400 Josephine St., Austin www.bunkhousehotels.com/ carpenter-hotel/eat-drink/carpenters-hall

One menu item which has stayed the same since the restaurant’s opening is the Carrot Cake.

COURTESY CARPENTERS HALL

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Business

BY DACIA GARCIA

Birdhouse Books & Gifts is owned and operated by Abby Strite who brings her dog Mae Mae with her to work.

The bookshop leans into its name by selling bird-related books and locally-made birdhouses.

PHOTOS BY DACIA GARCIACOMMUNITY IMPACT

Birdhouse Books & Gifts cultivates inclusive space Abby Strite dreamt of starting a community-fo- cused business. In September 2024, her vision came to fruition with Birdhouse Books & Gifts. The backstory out the store’s gift options. The shop also hosts a variety of events, including inclusive poetry nights and book readings. The impact

The store sells gifts from cards and hair clips to candles and bookmarks.

The inspiration behind the name of the shop came from her goal to create a comforting space. “I want people to come in and feel like they can breathe, like they’re maybe sitting in the tree, reading a book, the birds are chirping around you and there’s light ltering through the leaves and you can feel that peace,” Strite said. Strite proudly promotes the business is wom- an-owned, veteran-owned and LGBTQ-owned. Readers of all genres can nd at least one book to pique their interest. Customers can also check

With all the business’s community ties, Strite said she has a mountain of favorite memories since opening. She shared one in particular about an author, Drew Edwards, who’s daughter took her rst steps while he was promoting his graphic novel at the store. “Everybody in the store turned and cheered her on. It was just one of the most beautiful human moments that makes you feel like this is life. This is what it’s about. This is community,” Strite said.

5925 Burnet Road, Austin www.birdhousebooksatx.com

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Real estate

The median home price the market did not change year over year in October. Residential market data

Homes sold

October 2024

October 2025

+150%

-11.11%

-28.57%

+35%

-0.29%

+100%

78705 78751 78752 78756

78757

78701

78702

78703

78704

78705

78722

78731

290

360

+55.56%

-6.67%

-27.27%

+16.67%

-16.67%

-6.9%

78723

78703

78701

78722

78702

78704

290

183

MOPAC

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 5124547636 WWW.ABOR.COM

78723

78731

78751

78752

78756

78757

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

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3300 W. Anderson Ln. Austin, TX 78757 • (512) 420-2222 Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Closed Sundays and Mondays. @EldoradoCafeATX 3300 W. Anderson Ln. Austin, TX 78757 • (512) 420-2222 Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Closed Sundays and Mondays. @EldoradoCafeATX Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Closed Sundays and Mondays. @EldoradoCafeATX

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

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