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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION 2022
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HEALTH CARE EDITION
VOLUME 16, ISSUE 5 JUNE 25 JULY 22, 2022
Area hospital systems invest billions in expansions to keep pace with Central Texas population boom
In the coming years, hospital systems and health care providers in Central Texas will invest almost $2.5 billion to grow their physical footprint by building new facilities or expanding existing ones. Creating capacity
BY CLAIRE SHOOP
in the nation. Andy Davis, the CEO for Ascension Texas, a major health care system that includes Ascension Seton and Dell Children’s, said based on pro- jections, within 10 years the metro area will have a 1,200-bed de cit. “The great thing about Central Texas is the community is growing in every direction, and so it presents a unique opportunity for us to make sure that we’re doing all we can to be present in a way that keeps families close to home and together,” Davis said. Bringing care to the community One hospital system making a major investment in physical infrastructure is
Central Texas is on pace to gain more than 600 hospital beds in the next three years, including two new hospitals in growing suburban areas, two new chil- dren’s hospitals in Northwest Austin, a new behavioral health hospital and expansions at seven existing facilities. Combined, three major health care systems are investing almost $2.5 billion in physical infrastructure to increase access to services and meet the needs of the growing region. Hospital o cials said the additional space is necessary to care for the pop- ulation of a rapidly expanding region, with Williamson and Hays counties ranking as some of the fastest growing
637 NEW HOSPITAL BEDS have been announced or are under construction at 12 hospitals across three health care systems.
Ascension Texas
St. David’s HealthCare
Texas Children’s Hospital 52 BEDS AT
160 BEDS AT
425 BEDS AT
By 2032, Central Texas is projected to need an additional 1,200 HOSPITAL BEDS. 3 FACILITIES 8 FACILITIES 1 FACILITY
SOURCES: ASCENSION TEXAS, ST. DAVID’S HEALTHCARE, TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
CONTINUED ON 26
DRUG DEATHS
Overdose deaths reach ‘crisis’ level in Travis County
Top 4 causes of accidental deaths Drug toxicity
Drug toxicity was the leading cause of accidental death in Travis County in 2021. SOURCE: TRAVIS COUNTY MEDICAL EXAMINER'S OFFICE COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
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BY DARCY SPRAGUE
that her organization is using to prevent overdose deaths. The purpose of the town hall was to urge local leaders to dedicate more resources toward combating drug overdoses, which the Travis County medi- cal examiner would state in late
May was the leading cause of accidental death in 2021 for the county. “My question to policymakers is when is enough, enough?” said Nova Skye, outreach coordinator for the THRA, a nonpro t that CONTINUED ON 28
In early May, Cate Graziani, president of the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance, stood on a stage in front of a veritable who’s who of local government o - cials holding a bag of supplies, some illegal under Texas law,
Falling down
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Motor vehicle fatality
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34 Drowning
HEALTH CARE EDITION 2022
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BUSINESS FEATURE
IMPACTS
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Curious what is selling in your neighborhood? Scan me *All prices shown are list price
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
realtyaustin.com/p/3144128
realtyaustin.com/p/5423313
realtyaustin.com/p/6934976
realtyaustin.com/p/4880280
$849,900
$925,000
$975,000
$1,190,000
4 bds
2.5 ba 2,750 sq ft
3 bds
2 ba
1,864 sq ft
4 bds
2.5 ba 2,175 sq ft
4 bds
3.5 ba 3,201 sq ft
10206 Prism Dr, Austin, TX 78726 Yusuf Johnson | 512-419-8020
11905 Knights Brg, Austin, TX 78759 Charlotte Hair | 512-565-4703
9701 Morning Ct, Austin, TX 78759 Sumina Bhatti | 512-766-3026
10212 Echoridge Dr, Austin, TX 78750 Heather Balderach | 512-788-2535
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
PENDING
realtyaustin.com/p/8288995
realtyaustin.com/p/9008434
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$1,199,000
$1,200,000
$1,425,000
$645,000
3 bds
3.5 ba 3,665 sq ft
4 bds
2.5 ba 2,684 sq ft
4 bds
3.5 ba 3,374 sq ft
4 bds
2.5 ba 2,188 sq ft
7301 Barley Cv, Austin, TX 78750 Jo Vincent | 512-636-8625
8863 Mountain Ridge Cir, Austin, TX 78759 Ruth and Evonne Team | 512-810-3189
9111 Tweed Berwick Dr, Austin, TX 78750 Lawrence Pritchett | 512-962-6936
1419 Lance Way, Austin, TX 78758 Corazón Team | 512-843-3572
PENDING
PENDING
PENDING
SOLD OVER ASKING
realtyaustin.com/p/1449071
realtyaustin.com/p/1948429
realtyaustin.com/p/9330418
realtyaustin.com/p/5762747
$798,500
$800,000
$1,350,000
$625,000
5 bds
4 ba
2,877 sq ft
4 bds
2.5 ba 2,295 sq ft
3 bds
2 ba
2,584 sq ft
4 bds
2 ba
1,967 sq ft
10605 Marbury Ct, Austin, TX 78726 Sarabeth and Jordan Team | 512-468-5520
10912 Sierra Oaks, Austin, TX 78759 Jeff Hill | 512-230-4953
8506 Walhill Cv, Austin, TX 78759 Betsy Gallagher | 512-431-8265
11917 Meadowfire Dr, Austin, TX 78758 Kristen Rummel | 512-413-4680
As interest rates, inflation, and home prices continue to rise, you might be unsure if now is the right time to buy or sell a home. As the #1 independent brokerage in Central Texas, we are constantly studying how the market is trending to help you make the right decision. Scan the QR code to learn what the cost of waiting could mean for you. Cost of Waiting to Buy or Sell a Home? Cs of i ng
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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
Congratulations Round Rock ISD Class of 2022! 3,537 graduates • $50,526,458 in scholarships earned • 55 students earned Associate Degrees 54 students joining the armed forces • 6,453 industry certifications earned Over one million college credits achieved
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
THIS ISSUE
ABOUT US
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched the rst edition of Community Impact Newspaper in 2005 with three full-time employees covering Round Rock and P ugerville, Texas. Now in 2022, CI is still locally owned. We have expanded to include hundreds of employees, our own software platform and printing facility, and over 40 hyperlocal editions across three states with circulation to more than 2.8 million residential mailboxes.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM TAYLOR: A new report from the Travis County Medical Examiner’s o ce shows that drug overdose was the leading cause of accidental death in Travis County in 2021. Editor Darcy Sprague examines this troubling discovery inside (see pages 28-29). In light of this report, I hope you will use this year’s Health Care Edition as a resource and consider reaching out to a local mental health professional if you are in need. Taylor Caranfa Stover, GENERAL MANAGER
Community Impact Newspaper teams include general managers, editors, reporters, graphic designers, sales account executives and sales support, all immersed and invested in the communities they serve. Our mission is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our core values are Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.
FROM JENN: Welcome to our annual Health Care Edition! We have worked hard to bring you stories from Northwest Austin that re ect how members of the community take care of their well-being. I hope you nd something useful this month. As always, happy reading! Jennifer Schaefer, EDITOR
Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other.
WHAT WE COVER
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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
IMPACTS
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Austin. The Minnesota-based company believes in bettering the environment by using eco-friendly materials from plastic that would have ended up in the ocean. 512-872-6646. www.yardbird.com COMING SOON 6 Ballard Designs , a store that sells home furniture and accessories with European in uence and o ers design services, will open in The Arboretum in early 2023. The store is taking over the former Gap location at 10000 Research Blvd., Stes. 108-111, Austin. www.ballarddesigns.com 7 A Bouldin Acres restaurant and drinkery location is underway at 1806 Braker Lane, Austin. O cials said the second location will have the same o erings as its South Lamar location. Bouldin Acres, which bills itself as family- friendly, features food trucks, a full- service bar, pickleball courts, a playground and more. There is no estimated opening date. www. bouldinacres.com
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NOW OPEN 1 Dr. Martens , an English footwear brand, opened its shop at 11621 Rock Rose Ave., Ste. 110, Austin, in early May. The retailers is known for its iconic leath- er boots that were rst made popular in the 1960s. www.drmartens.com
stores in the nation and sells o cially li- censed merchandise, held a soft opening in May and a grand opening June 4-5 at 9828 Great Hills Trail, Ste. 330, Austin. 512-294- 2607. www.holocronstoystore.com 3 Rocket Co ee ATX opened June 1 at 8701 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. 2127, Austin, in the Artisan Center. The family-owned, full-service co ee shop o ers hot and iced co ee drinks, pastries and desserts. Owner Sami Alasi said he plans to open
a second location in early 2023. 512-551- 2655. www.rocketco eeatx.com 4 Universal Technical Institute, which o ers training in automotive, diesel and welding careers, opened a location May 16 at 301 W. Howard Lane, Austin. Courses last from 36-51 weeks. 737-284- 3100. www.uti.edu 5 Yardbird, a sustainable outdoor furniture shop, opened its rst Texas showroom May 27 at 9705 Research Blvd,
2 Holocron Toy Store , which claims to be one of the largest “Star Wars”-only toy
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
COMPILED BY JENNIFER SCHAEFER
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Holocron Toy Store
Cinnaholic
JENNIFER SCHAEFERCOMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
JENNIFER SCHAEFERCOMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
The practice is led by Xande Ribeiro and Alexandre Kunzel, International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation world champions.
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COURTESY SIX BLADES JIU JITSU
In addition to a building demonstrating virtues every martial artist should have, the 7,500-square-foot facility has a state-of-the-art spring oor to support training mats and provide a safe environment. The facility said it plans to hold a grand opening in the fall after an expansion is completed. www.sixbladesbjj.com
NOW OPEN Residents of Northwest Austin have a new jiujitsu training hub with the opening of Six Blades Jiu Jitsu in April, in the Anderson Mill area at 13642 US 183, Ste. 300, Austin. Instruction is led by sensei Xande Ribeiro and Alexandre Kunzel, International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation world champions. Ribeiro is the rst IBJJ Hall of Famer to teach in Texas. The practice o ers instruction to people of all ages and skill levels with the goal of building a community of strong kids and adults who feel con dent, prepared and safe. plates. 512-854-9473. www.tax-o ce.traviscountytx.gov ANNIVERSARIES 14 Wonders and Worries , a nonpro t organization based in Austin that provides professional support for children through a parent’s illness, is celebrated its 20th anniversary in February. Some of the services Wonders and Worries o ers is age-appropriate understanding of illness, treatments and side e ects; strategies for expressing feelings related to changes in the family; skills for coping with stress, anger, sadness and fear; and connections to peers sharing similar
Hublot
Honest Mary's
COURTESY HUBLOT
JENNIFER SCHAEFERCOMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
company’s Kroger Delivery Network and will service the Austin area. 11 Semper Laser Clinic will open its rst Austin location at 9503 Research Blvd., Unit 530, Austin, on July 5. The laser hair- removal clinic has two Houston locations and will also be opening one in Dallas. www.semperlaser.com 12 Swiss watchmaker Hublot will open an Austin storefront in The Domain in July at 11506 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. 108, Austin. The luxury watch brand combines gold with natural rubber in its designs. www.hublot.com RELOCATIONS 13 The Travis County Tax o ce moved to 2433 Ridgepoint Drive from Airport Boulevard in Austin in early June. The center, named the Nelda Wells Spears Building, is named after Texas’ rst black tax assessor-collector. The o ce collects court costs, nes and fees; property taxes; administers beer, wine and liquor licenses; disabled parking placards; vehicle registrations; titles; and license
8 Cinnaholic , a plant-based bakery specializing in custom gourmet cinnamon rolls, brownies, edible cookie dough, cookies and more, will open this summer at 10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 136, Austin. Cinnamon rolls have endless avor combinations with more than 40 di erent frostings and toppings available. All products are made with high-quality ingredients and are 100% vegan, dairy- and lactose-free, egg-free and cholesterol-free. 833-246-3726. www.cinnaholic.com 9 The Dirdie Birdie , an indoor mini-golf course experience that describes itself as “a new school vibe on an old-school classic” will open in the fall to The Domain at 10910 Domain Drive, Ste. 120, Bldg. W., Austin. The immersive mini-golf experience is set to feature several Austin landmarks and original concepts as well as food and drink. www.dirdiebirdieatx.com 10 Kroger will open a 70,000-square- foot delivery warehouse at 2401 Ferguson Lane in Northeast Austin. The warehouse will be a “spoke” in part of the
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experiences. It is located at 9101 Burnet Road, Ste. 205, Austin. 512-329-5757. www.wondersandworries.org RENOVATIONS 15 Honest Mary’s Arboretum location reopened after it closed for a week in mid-May for renovations. The location, at 9828 Great Hills Trail, Ste. 300, Austin, is a fast-casual eatery that serves build- your-own grain bowls with responsibly sourced proteins, kombucha and wine. 737-300-9771. www.honestmarys.com
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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
TexARTS Theater presents
Book by Terrence McNally & Music by David Yazbek Filled with Razor-Sharp Humor and Infectious Music, This One-Of-A-Kind Musical Bares Its Soul to Reveal Its Heart. July 15 - Aug. 7
More Rebates, More Savings » Find instant savings on energy efficient products at local stores » Enjoy rebates averaging $1,800 or low interest financing on home energy upgrades » Get up to $115 in smart thermostat rebates and incentives » Enjoy an $800 rebate on eligible heat pump water heaters » See if you qualify for free home energy improvements » Monitor your energy usage and get savings tips at coautilities.com Learn more ways to save at austinenergy.com/go/summer
GET TICKETS AT TEX-ARTS.ORG OR BY CALLING 512-852-9079
The production is supported in part by:
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TO DO LIST
July and August events
COMPILED BY JENNIFER SCHAEFER
Float Fest combines tubing and a music festival.
JULY 04
SEE WILLIE AND FRIENDS Q2 STADIUM
JULY 24
CHECK OUT COOL CARS CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS
WORTH THE TRIP Float Fest, July 23 24 Float Fest will return to Gonzales, about 65 miles southeast of Austin, with more than a dozen acts including Vampire Weekend, Chance the Rapper and Tove Lo. The event o ers a 2-mile oating trip down the river and walk-on access to the concerts. This year, the event will feature a draft beer station where attendees can ll reusable containers. Times vary. Single- day general admission tickets start at $134. www. oatfest.net 1 CR 197, Gonzales
Willie Nelson’s annual 4th of July Picnic will be held at Q2 Stadium this year and features special guests such as Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Tyler Childers, Brothers Osborne, Midland, Charley Crokett, Allison Russell, Particle Kid, Steve Earle & The Dukes and Asleep at the Wheel. 11 a.m. (doors open), noon (show starts). $55-$472. 10414 McKalla Place. www.q2stadium.com
Cars and Co ee Austin, one of the largest car meetups in the country, returns to Circuit of The Americas. The July meetup includes a Formula 1 watch party with the F1 French and Belgium Grand Prix races on big screens. Shuttles will be available to the tower observation deck. 8 a.m.-noon. Car show: free (spectators), $10 (show cars). Lot A, Circuit of The Americas Boulveard, Del Valle. www.thecircuit.com
23 THROUGH 31 SEE BANKSY Banksyland is an international touring exhibition featuring 80 pieces and installations across 22 cities from artist, lmmaker and political activist Banksy. The collection features studio works, street artworks and immersive installations. The exhibit is organized by One Thousand Ways, an international arts company specializing in experimental art immersive events. Times vary. The location will be revealed to ticket holders about two weeks before the event opening. $22-$59. www.banksyland.com 23 FIX A BEAR Children will be able to bring injured or sick teddy bears in need of a little extra love and care to the Austin Humane Society Shelter for its Teddy Bear Surgery event. The event will help diagnose and treat stu ed animals, giving children a glimpse into the world of animal care. Registration is required to participate as space is limited. This event is a part of the Austin Humane Society’s 10th Annual Summer Kids Series. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 124 W. Anderson Lane, Austin. www.austinhumanedv.wpengine.com
JULY 01 READ, EXPLORE AND CREATE Austin Public Library will hold its summer reading challenge, Completely Booked, through Aug. 15. Readers of all ages are invited to keep track of summer reading via the Beanstack app and log 10 hours of reading and complete ve activity badges in chosen categories, such as sports, space, writing and music. After completing the challenge, visit any branch to claim a prize at the front desk. Free. www.library.austintexas.gov/summer 04 CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY Join sponsor H-E-B and the Austin Symphony Orchestra for the largest Independence Day celebration in Texas. The family-friendly event will be at Vic Mathias Shores and feature a reworks display against the Austin skyline backed by live music. 8:30-10 p.m. Free (admission). 900 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.austinsymphony.org/july4 08 THROUGH AUG. 13 WATCH A SUMMER MUSICAL Zilker Hillside Theatre’s summer musical “Newsies” will run from July 8-Aug. 13.
The show is based on the real newsboy strike of 1899. Performances will be held Thursday-Sunday at 8:15 p.m. Attendees can bring blankets and picnics. Concessions will also be available. Admission is free. No reservations are required. 2206 William Barton Drive, Austin. www.zilker.org 14 WATCH A MOVIE Family-friendly lms will be shown at the El Salido pool as part of the Anderson Mill Limited District’s Float Flix program with “Finding Nemo” on July 14. The movie will begin at dusk, and the pool will close 15 minutes after the movie ends. No registration required. $5. 11500 El Salido Parkway. 512-258-4104. www.amld.org 22 ROCK OUT TO REO After a four-year break, rock bands Styx and REO Speedwagon have joined forces for the “Live and Unzoomed” tour, which will play the Germania Insurance Stadium. The bands will be joined by special guest Loverboy. 5:30 p.m. (doors open), 6:45 p.m. (show starts). Tickets start at $29.50. 9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd., Del Valle. www.germaniaamp.com
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30 WATCH RUGBY The Rugby Sevens premier league will hold its championship game at Q2 Stadium. The action will culminate in the crowning of the 2022 season’s uni ed men’s and women’s championship. Premium seating options are available. 3-8 p.m. $27-$99. 104114 McKalla Place. www.prsevens.com/tickets
Find more or submit Northwest Austin events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.
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July 4th Celebration runs 6/27/22-7/4/22. Valid on featured products. Sale items can be shopped in-store and online at www.twinliquors.com. Selection varies by store. Items and prices subject to change without notice. No further discount on Sale Items, Final Few, or Closeouts. Some exclusions apply. Please drink responsibly.
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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
Capital Metro board names Dottie Watkins interim CEO
ONGOING PROJECT
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Clarke said in the release. Watkins has been with Capital Metro since 1994 when she started as a part-time bus operator.
WESTLAKE DR.
On May 24, the Capital Metro board of directors announced Deputy CEO Dottie Watkins will become the interim CEO of the regional transit authority. “The board has worked with Dottie for a long time, and we know that she’s behind a lot of success at [Capital Metro],” said Je rey Travillion, Travis County commissioner and Capital Metro board chair, in a news release. President and CEO Randy Clarke announced earlier in May that he will be assuming the position of general manager and CEO of the Washington Metro- politan Area Transit Authority in Washington, D.C.. Watkins will take over his role this summer. “I fully support the board’s decision to name Dottie as the interim CEO of [Capital Metro],”
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TxDOT breaks ground on Loop 360 underpass
183 North Mobility Project Nightly pavement grinding, where part of the roadway is removed to level and smooth the surface, began in April on the 183 North Mobility Project at Lakeline Drive and will continue moving southbound on US 183 over the next several months, according to the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority. Phase 1 will add a new layer of pavement for a smoother ride. Timeline: January 2022-26 Cost: $612 million Funding sources: TxDOT, Mobility Authority
Dottie Watkins
BY JENNIFER SCHAEFER
The drive down Loop 360 will soon be less congested as drivers will have fewer oppor- tunities to be caught by stoplights. O cials from the Texas Department of Transportation along with state and local o cials gathered June 1 at Riverbend Church to kick o the $72.1 million project. The project will remove tra c signals and add underpasses at the intersections on Loop 360 at Westlake Drive and Cedar Street, according to a release from the department. The project is funded by TxDOT and the city of Austin’s 2016 mobility bond and is expected to be completed by mid-2025.
Working her way up the ranks, Watkins has served as deputy CEO, chief operating o cer, and vice president of bus and paratransit services. The board of directors also approved a national search to ll the position long term at its May 23 board meeting. Tawaun Cole, Capital Metro public information o cer, said there is not a set timeline as to when the position will be lled long term.
ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF JUNE 1. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT NWANEWS COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
NEWS BRIEFS
Survey: Access to food, water top priorities
Capital Metro to use American Rescue Plan Act funds for staffing shortages
ACCESS TO HEALTHY FOODS
One of the main concerns of Travis County residents who took part in the survey was being able to eat healthy foods. Here is the percentage of residents who consume five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
BY CHLOE YOUNG
furthering long-term employment. “By better supporting our team members at the beginning of their tenure, it will ensure confidence in their new roles and increase the like- lihood of long-term employment,” Capital Metro Communications Specialist Blythe Nebeker said. FEDERAL FUNDS Capital Metro will receive $780,100 as part of the federal government's American Rescue Plan. Here are some uses the agency plans for the money.
Capital Metro has been awarded $780,100 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to strengthen its staffing efforts, the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration announced June 3. “This is great news for the hard- working frontline staff at Cap[ital] Metro, and it will truly make a difference,” said Dottie Watkins, interim Capital Metro president and CEO, in a release. “Workforce development is an important part of our strategic plan, and investing in our frontline staff to best serve our community is key.” As Capital Metro has struggled with staffing shortages amid the pandemic, the Austin transit agency will use its grant to hire and retain more staff. Frontline workers such as operators, supervisors, mechan- ics and dispatchers will undergo a training program with the goal of
BY KATY MCAFEE
The 2022 Travis County Com- munity Survey revealed having a dependable water source and access to food are the highest priorities for Travis County residents. The survey showed internet access and traffic were also ranked top priorities. The survey had the most robust participation in its history with just under 2,500 participants, according to Travis County Planning Manager Yaira Robinson. White residents were overrepresented by 21% compared to the total population, and Hispanic residents were underrepresented by 16%. The results will be used to help Travis County Commissioners Court make more informed funding deci- sions and allocate the Local Fiscal Recovery Fund received through the American Rescue Plan Act.
22.6%
2011 2013 2015 2017 2019
18.4% 17.3%
40.9%
15.6%
SOURCE: BEHAVIORAL RISK FACTOR SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
While water remains a top priority overall, communities may differ on why water remains a top concern. Multiple boil-water notices in the past three years as well as growing drought and water shortages may be the driving force behind the survey results, according to Christy Moffett, economic director for strategic investments for Travis County.
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© 2022, Challenger Schools Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade
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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
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Celebrating Juneteenth and the diversity of our community
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
CITY & COUNTY Public safety units weigh spending increases News from Austin & Travis & Williamson counties
QUOTE OF NOTE
HIGHLIGHTS HAYS, TRAVIS & WILLIAMSON COUNTIES Around 8% of registered voters in Hays, Travis and Williamson counties turned out to vote in the 2022 primary runoff elections. For the May 24 election, which included races for the Texas attorney general, select representatives and other state officials, 8.62% of Williamson County, 8.02% of Travis County and 8.25% of Hays County registered voters cast ballots, according to data from the Texas Secretary of State’s Office. WILLIAMSON COUNTY Over $72 million in federal funding will go toward improving water and wastewater infrastructure in Williamson County, the Commissioners Court announced May 24. Commissioners unanimously passed a motion to allocate $72.5 million of its remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds to carry out the new water and wastewater the projects. Prior to May 24, Williamson County had only allocated $36.5 million of its $114 million in ARPA funds. Austin City Council meets July 28 at 10 a.m. at Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second St., Austin. 512-974-2250. www.austintexas.gov/department/ city-council Travis County Commissioners Court meets June 28, July 12, 18 at 9 a.m. at the Travis County Administration Building, 700 Lavaca St., Austin. 512- 854-4722. www.traviscountytx.gov Williamson County Commissioners Court meets June 28, July 12, 19 at 9:30 a.m. at the Williamson County Courthouse, 710 Main St., Georgetown. 512-943-1100. www.wilco.org MEETINGS WE COVER “WE ARE SEEKING REASONABLE GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION TO RESTRICT THE PURCHASE OF AR- 15 AND SIMILAR SEMIAUTOMATIC RIFLES BECAUSE OUR STATE LEADERS HAVE FAILED TO ADDRESS THE URGENT THREAT OF GUN VIOLENCE.” AUSTIN MAYOR PRO TEM ALISON ALTER, WHO IS SPONSORING A PROPOSAL TO RESTRICT FIREARM SALES IN THE CITY
BY BEN THOMPSON
PUBLIC SAFETY BUDGET FORECASTS Austin’s public safety units are planning for budget hikes next fiscal year.
fund spending in fiscal year 2021-22 and are each requesting budget boosts of between $5.2 million and $9.3 million for the coming year. The new budget outlooks from all three departments are based on direction from city management to “hold the line” on any spending increases beyond standard cost drivers this year, according to APD Assistant Director Michelle Schmidt. City budget planning will stretch through the summer with an ini- tial draft to be presented publicly in mid-July ahead of City Council review in August. No budget decisions are final until approved by council.
AUSTIN Austin’s three public safety departments are eyeing moderate budget increases for the coming fiscal year and will also ask city officials to consider funding other priorities, including several dozen new staff positions and millions of dollars for operations and other programs. Representatives with the Austin Fire Department, Austin Police Department and Austin-Travis County EMS presented their fiscal year 2022-23 budget forecasts to the Public Safety Commission on June 6. The three public safety branches made up nearly two-thirds of the city’s nearly $1.2 billion general
Austin Fire Department FY 2021-22
$219.4 million
FY 2022-23
$228.7 million
Austin Police Department
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23
$443.1 million
$451.7 million
Austin-Travis County EMS
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23
$105.8 million
$111 million
0 $100 $200 $300 $400 $500*
*In millions
APH expands COVID-19 vaccines to those under 5
CITY OF AUSTIN LIVING WAGE HISTORY A community working group convened in 2014 recommended that the city tie its living wage to annual cost-of-living increases. Adjustments ended in 2018. City living wage Texas minimum wage
$4/hr $8/hr $12/hr $16/hr $0/hr
BY DARCY SPRAGUE
AUSTIN Austin Public Health announced eligibility for Moderna and Pfizer-Bi- oNTech’s COVID-19 vaccines has been expanded to include children under 5 on June 21, days after federal public health agencies said young children may now begin receiving those shots. “This vaccine expansion comes at a critical time when we’re dealing with new subvariants and high community trans- mission,” Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority, said in a release.
Oct. 2008 Oct. 2003 Oct. 2012 Oct. 2017 Oct. 2021 Oct. 1998
City approves plan to lift Austin’s living wage to $22 per hour, a 46% hike SOURCES: CITY OF AUSTIN, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
BY BEN THOMPSON
rolling out a living wage hike from the current $15 per hour. The change would apply to Austin’s thousands of civilian, sworn and temporary positions. Council’s vote came after officials heard testimony from dozens of residents and city employees who spoke to a need for higher pay.
AUSTIN Officials asked to push the minimum wage for city employees to $22 per hour this year, a more than 46% increase— although how the move fits into the Austin’s upcoming budget planning remains to be seen. City Council voted unan- imously June 16 to work on
COVID IN THE COMMUNITY
Cases per 100,000 population: 174.81 New COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 population: 2.2 % staffed inpatient beds in use by patients with confirmed COVID-19: 1.5%
SOURCE: CDC/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
Williamson County to restructure emergency dispatch communications
BY KAITLYN WILKES
reconfigure the agency. The agreement, if approved, would require “potential organizational restructuring, personnel movement, management structure, budget impli- cations, and adjustment of business and operating
processes relating to law enforcement emergency communications and fire and EMS emergency com- munications,” according to the meeting agenda. “The part that we’re really talking about is a very small subsection of
how dispatching happens for law enforcement. That has been ... designed around a joint center, meaning the sheriff’s department, the consta- bles and most smaller agencies,” Commissioner Cynthia Long said.
WILLIAMSON COUNTY The Commissioners Court voted May 31 to move for- ward with a management control agreement that would affect emergency dispatch telecommunica- tions and could possibly
13
NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
Get updated vaccines. See a full picture of your child’s health. Ask learning and behavioral questions. Schedule daytime, evenings & weekends!
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
2022
HEALTH CARE EDITION
COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER IS PROUD TO SAY THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
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HEALTH CARE SNAPSHOT
Local health care data and information
COMPILED BY CLAIRE SHOOP
2022 STATEWIDE HEALTH CARE RANKINGS OUT OF 244 COUNTIES
COMPARING COUNTY HEALTH These rankings of all counties statewide are updated annually but include data from previous years. The factors listed are not comprehensive.
HEALTH OUTCOMES INCLUDE:
• LENGTH OF LIFE • QUALITY OF LIFE , such as the number of poor mental and physical health days reported
HEALTH OUTCOMES
3 3
6 6 7 3 6 4
Length of life Overall
HEALTH FACTORS INCLUDE:
WILLIAMSON COUNTY
• HEALTHBEHAVIORS , such as smoking, obesity, physical activity, excessive drinking, alcohol- impaired driving deaths, sexually transmitted infections and teen births • CLINICALCARE , including health insurance coverage; number of physicians, dentists and mental health providers; preventable hospital stays; and u vaccinations • SOCIOECONOMICFACTORS , such as educational attainment levels, children in poverty, income inequality and violent crimes • PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT FACTORS , such as air pollution, drinking water violations, housing problems and long commutes
4
Quality of life HEALTH FACTORS
TRAVIS COUNTY
4 2 6 3
Overall
Health behaviors
Socioeconomic Physical environment Clinical care
19
87
179
SOURCES: ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON FOUNDATION, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN POPULATION HEALTH INSTITUTE, COUNTYHEALTHRANKINGS.ORG COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
TRACKING VACCINATIONS
In Travis and Williamson counties, the number of people getting a COVID-19 vaccine peaked in early April 2021, with smaller peaks occurring throughout the year. Data is up to date as of June 2.
COUNTY VACCINATION DOSES BY WEEK
FULLY VACCINATED POPULATION AGE BREAKDOWN
WILLIAMSON COUNTY
TRAVIS COUNTY STATE AVERAGE
150,000
5.79%
4.77%
5-11
Peak
X,XXX 04/05/2021 56,967 126,098 04/05/2021
120,000
PERCENTAGE OF RESIDENTS AGE 5+ FULLY VACCINATED 73.42%
5.66%
4.9%
12-15
90,000
51.04%
58.47%
16-49
60,000
20.39%
18.78%
50-64
73.86%
13.7%
10.66%
65-79
30,000
65.66%
3.42%
2.4%
80+
0
NOTE: NUMBERS MAY NOT EQUAL 100% DUE TO ROUNDING. SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF STATE HEALTH SERVICES COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
2020
2021
2022
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NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2022
HOSPITALS
Information on local hospitals ERs, urgent cares & retail clinics
1 Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin Trauma level: Level IV NICU level: Level III Total number of employees: 1,830 Number of beds: 521 1201 W. 38th St., Austin 512 324 1000 www.ascension.org 2 Ascension Seton Medical Center Williamson Trauma level: Level II NICU level: Level II Total number of employees: 1,015 Number of beds: 149 201 Seton Parkway, Round Rock 512 324 4000 www.ascension.org 3 Ascension Seton Northwest Trauma level: Level IV NICU level: Level II Total number of employees: 447 Number of beds: 117 11113 Research Blvd., Austin 512 324 6000 www.ascension.org 4 Ascension Seton Shoal Creek Trauma level: N/A NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: 184
NICU LEVEL
183
2
8
CEDAR PARK
LEVEL I • Well nursery
• Can care for mothers, infants at 35-plus weeks of gestation with routine perinatal problems • Anesthesiology, lab, radiology, ultrasonography, blood bank services and pharmacist available LEVEL II • Specialty care nursery • Can care for mothers, infants at 32-plus weeks of gestation with problems to be resolved rapidly • In addition to Level I requirements, dietician, and physical and respiratory therapists available LEVEL III • Neonatal intensive care unit • Can care for mothers, infants of all gestational ages with mild to critical illnesses • Can provide consultation for pediatric medical and surgical subspecialists; can perform major pediatric surgery on-site LEVEL IV • Advanced NICU • Can care for mothers, infants of all gestational ages as well as the most complex, critically ill infants • Comprehensive pediatric medical and surgical subspecialists on-site; can perform major surgeries, including repair of complex conditions
79
1431
5
15
ROUND ROCK AVE.
ROUND ROCK
45 TOLL
16
11
183
1
4
7
MOPAC
3
35
620
130 TOLL
14
LAKEWAY
12
6
AUSTIN
BEE CAVES RD.
360
290
620
9
13
183
130 TOLL
10
35
71
N
13 St. David’s Medical Center (includ- ing St. David’s Rehabilitation Hospital) Trauma level: Level IV NICU level: Level IV Total number of employees: 2,208
NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: about 4,100 for the Greater Austin region Number of beds: did not provide 300 University Blvd., Round Rock 512 509 0100 www.bswhealth.com/roundrock 9 Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas Total number of rooms: 72 4900 Mueller Blvd., Austin 512 324 0000 www.dellchildrens.net 10 Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas Trauma level: Level I NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: 1,374 Number of beds: 210 1500 Red River St., Austin 512 324 7000 www.ascension.org 11 Heart Hospital of Austin Trauma level: Level IV NICU level: N/A (hospital does not have a labor and delivery unit) Total number of employees: 446 Number of beds: 72 3801 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin 512 407 7000 www.hearthospitalofaustin.com 12 Northwest Hills Surgical Hospital Trauma level: N/A NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: 160 Number of beds: 8 6818 Austin Center Blvd., Ste. 100, Austin 512 346 1994 www.northwesthillssurgical.com Trauma level: Level I NICU level: Level IV Total number of employees: 2,000 35
Number of beds: 70 3501 Mills Ave., Austin; 512 324 2000 www.ascension.org 5 Baylor Scott & White Emergency Medical Center-Cedar Park Trauma level: N/A NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: about 4,100 for the Greater Austin region 6 Baylor Scott & White Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital Lakeway Trauma level: N/A NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: about 4,100 in the Greater Austin region Number of beds: did not provide 2000 Medical Drive, Lakeway 512 263 4500 www.bswrehab.com/locations/inpatient/ lakeway 7 Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-P ugerville Trauma level: N/A NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: 4,100 for the Greater Austin region Number of beds: did not provide 2600 E. P ugerville Parkway, Ste. 100, P ugerville 512 654 6100 www.bswhealth.com/p ugervillemc 8 Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Round Rock (including Baylor Scott & White Cancer Center) Trauma level: Level IV Number of beds: did not provide 900 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park 737 757 3600 www.bswemc.org
Number of beds: 490 919 E. 32nd St., Austin 512 476 7111 www.stdavids.com
14 St. David’s North Austin Medical Center (including St. David’s Women’s Center of Texas and St. David’s Children’s Hospital) Trauma level: Level IV NICU level: Level III Total number of employees: 1,864 21
TRAUMA LEVEL
Number of beds: 395 12221 N. MoPac, Austin 512 901 1000 www.stdavids.com
LEVEL I • Highest level of care • Full range of specialists, equipment in-house 24/7 • O er teaching, research components LEVEL II
183
15 St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center (including Heart Hospital of Austin at St. David’s Round Rock) Trauma level: Level II NICU level: Level II Total number of employees: 1,074 Number of beds: 175 2400 Round Rock Ave., Round Rock 512 341 1000 www.stdavids.com 16 St. David’s Surgical Hospital Trauma level: N/A NICU level: N/A Total number of employees: 153 Number of beds: 46 1201 W. Louis Henna Blvd., Austin 512 248 7000 www.stdavids.com
• O er specialists on call 24/7 • Can transfer to Level I facilities • No research component required LEVEL III • O er resources for emergency surgery, intensive care • May have to transfer to Level I and II centers LEVEL IV • Provide initial evaluation, stabilization, diagnostic capabilities • Will likely have to transfer to higher-level trauma center
130
This list is not comprehensive.
Information regarding the total number of job openings was not uniformly provided by all hospital groups.
SOURCES: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF STATE HEALTH SERVICES, TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE'S OFFICE COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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