The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
VOLUME 16, ISSUE 5 AUG. 31 SEPT. 28, 2023
EDUCATION EDITION 2023
Cancer center to replace Frank Erwin Center
7
Zilker Park plans derailed
City & County
13
EDUCATION EDITION 2023 SPONSORED BY • Next Level Urgent Care • UT Health Austin
Austin ISD welcomed students back to school on Aug. 14, including Kocurek Elementary. (Nell Carroll/Community Impact)
As families sent their students back to classes on Aug. 14, Austin ISD leaders are wrestling with a $53 million shortfall, enrollment issues and growing concern from some parents about the district’s trans- parency and quality. The budget shortfall for the 2023-24 school year could lead to programming cuts. One of the biggest concerns— as cited by Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Mor- ath during a February hearing— is public school funding drops as the district loses students. As of Aug. 16, AISD o cials said the 2023-24 school year enroll- ment numbers were a little over CONTINUED ON 22 As classes resume, AISD battles budget, enrollment BY AMANDA CUTSHALL Enrollment declines provide addi- tional challenges for AISD following receiving no increase in state fund- ing after the 88th legislative regu- lar session ended in May—despite in ation signi cantly increasing the need for more money per stu- dent, according to a report com- piled by o cials with the Texas Association of School Boards.
Interim superintendent enters second year
21
Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries
We are in a drought This is a time for everyone to be mindful of their water use – every drop counts. It is important to know that despite the rainfall we’ve gotten this spring, our water supply lakes are still only half full. Things you can do right now to save water 6 Use outdoor irrigation only on your designated day and times. 6 Shorten shower times and run the washing machine or dishwasher only when they’re full. 6 Check all water heaters, faucets, 6 Set up your account in the My ATX Water customer portal to access your water use data, get custom QRWL¿FDWLRQVDQGUHFHLYHSRWHQWLDO leak alerts. We’re in this together. We appreciate everything you are doing to conserve our most precious resource. Austin Water continues to monitor conditions with the Lower Colorado River $XWKRULW\<RXFDQ¿QGRXWPRUHDERXW Austin Water’s drought response here. showerheads, and pipes under cabinets for leaks and drips.
June 2023
austinwater.org
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
You’re in the Driver’s Seat
Your back-up plan for back-to-school germs 24/7 Virtual Care Pediatric and adult medicine physicians can treat allergies, cold & flu symptoms, rashes, ear infections, pink eye, UTIs, nausea, cough, fevers, minor injuries, lice, strep throat and more.
NormanMD.com
WALLS: Jute AF-80, Aura® Interior, Matte DOOR: Black 2132-10, Aura® Exterior, Satin
√ Defer your first payment up to 30 days √ Buy new, used, or refinance on your terms √ Negotiate like a pro with a Vehicle Buyer’s Check
Get Two Free Benjamin Moore ® Color Samples Shop Online. Use the code: FREE SAMPLES WHY TRY ONE NEW COLOR WHEN YOU CAN TRY TWO? SHOP ONLINE. USE THE CODE: FREE SAMPLES . Arbor Trails (512) 373-3129 Downtown (512) 480-8466 IH-35 (512) 351-9300 Koenig (512) 452-6202 Oakhill
Scan to Start Your Loan Application Now UFCU.org
Offer valid for two (2) free Benjamin Moore® Color Samples at participating retailer. Products may vary from store to store. Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with other offers or applied to prior purchases. Retailer reserves the right to cancel or modify offer at any time without notice. Expires . Color accuracy is ensured only when tinted in quality Benjamin Moore paints. Color representations may differ slightly from actual paint. ©2022 Benjamin Moore & Co. Aura, Benjamin Moore, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co. 11/22 XX/XX/XXXX 9/30/2023.
(512) 358-6111 Parmer Lane (512) 356-9965 Westlake (512) 329-8891 ClementsPaint.com
Locally Owned. An Austin Institution since 1986.
3
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
Pool cleaning, Pool maintenance, Equipment Sales, Pool repairs
Front-Load Dumpsters Ideal for restaurants, schools and other commercial businesses that produce more waste than what fits into standard carts. Trash, Recycle and Compost Options Flexible Collection Frequencies Delivered to You
We make pool ownership easy so that you have more time to focus on what matters.
Call now for a free quote Named the #1 customer service company in Texas by Pool and Spa News. 512-636-8122 patriotpoolandspa.com
Available in over a dozen types and size options.
Get your quote today! 737-236-7067 | TexasDisposal.com
Scan the code for more information.
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE Mobility Authority
Navigating the tolling landscape can be complicated. We’re the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority, and we’re here to help you understand important pieces of the tolling puzzle, like what we do and how your toll bill works.
The Mobility Authority is not the only toll operator
PBM rates are higher than the tag rate to cover the additional processing cost.
Late payment fees do apply
PAY BY MAIL
ELECTRONIC TAG
VS
The Mobility Authority is not TxTag
We accept a variety of electronic tags
If tolls are not paid by an electronic tag account, then they are billed through our Pay By Mail (PBM) process. PBM payments on Mobility Authority operated roads must be paid directly to the Mobility Authority.
There’s a reason you might get a bill in the mail even if you have an electronic tag
There are payment options everywhere
SAVE 33%
Keep your electronic tag account in good standing
We use your address on file with the Texas DMV for bills
Learn what to do when you sell your car
Using the Pay By Mail program costs you more
TOLL RATES
WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP
To learn more fast facts about paying your Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority toll bill, visit us at MobilityAuthority.com/tolling101.
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
THIS ISSUE
ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM DEEDA: As I write this, I’m sticking labels with my child’s name to his pencil box. If you’re like me, you’re ready to get back into a regular routine but you may also be wondering where did summer go. The heat is certainly not gone! To help you ease into the school year, this issue includes our annual Education Edition (pages 15-23). Our cover story gives an update on Austin ISD as it navigates enrollment and funding issues while searching for a superintendent. Deeda Lovett, GENERAL MANAGER
MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Deeda Lovett SENIOR EDITOR Darcy Sprague REPORTERS Elle Bent, Katy McAfee, Ben Thompson
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joseph Veloz METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Travis Baker MANAGING EDITOR Amy Denney COPY EDITOR Kasey Salisbury SENIOR ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Haley Grace CONTACT US 16225 Impact Way, Ste. 1, Pflugerville, TX 78660 • 512-989-6808 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES ctanews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING ctaads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron
FROM DARCY: I’ve been looking forward to our print coverage of the Zilker Vision Plan. There has been so much misinformation about it on social media, and there is something special about being able to hold a piece of paper and say, “This is what actually happened! This is what it actually means!” We had planned more coverage after the vote in late August, but when an update came early, City Hall Reporter Ben Thompson jumped on it. Check it out on Page 13. Darcy Sprague, EDITOR
BIG
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE COMING...
communityimpact.com
@impactnewsatx
@impactnews_cta
linkedin.com/company/communityimpact
@communityimpactaustin
Proudly printed by
Stay up to date with CI social posts and blogs
© 2023 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
Sign up for wildfire notifications and warnings at
ready
set
go!
Stay aware by signing up for alerts, monitoring, and getting ready to evacuate if needed.
When wildfire hits, it’s important to act early—and work together to evacuate safely.
Create a plan and prepare your family and your home.
Scan the QR code to learn more!
Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Austin Fire Wildfire Division
5
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE
1
360
4
7
183
The Brass Tap
35
COURTESY THE BRASS TAP
1
2222
MOPAC
RELOCATIONS 6 Top Drawer Thrift is relocating from its home of over 30 years at 4902 Burnet Road., Austin, to the North Loop neigh- borhood at 5312 Airport Blvd., Austin. The store's nal day on Burnet Road was Aug. 26, and the new location is slated to open in mid-September. Top Drawer Thrift is the fundraising arm for Project Transitions, a nonpro t that provides healthcare and housing for people living with HIV. The store sells jewelry, art, furniture, records, books, clothing and more. www.topdrawerthrift.org ANNIVERSARIES 7 Central Texas Hearing Center is cel- ebrating 10 years in business. The center rst opened in 2013 by Audiologist Dr. Amanda Langham and now has three full time audiologists and has served nearly 6,000 patients. CTHC is located in the Shoal Creek Plaza at 3302 W. Anderson Lane, Ste. 208, Austin. 512-879-3993 www.centraltexashearingcenter.com 8 Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons celebrated 65 years of treating complex cardiac, thoracic, and vascular conditions in August. The independent surgical practice has earned many “ rsts” throughout the decades, including performing the rst heart transplant in Central Texas in 1986 and the rst kidney transplant in Central Texas in 1972, representatives said. CTVS has locations throughout Austin, Georgetown and Kyle. Its North Central Austin o ce is located at 1010 W. 40th St., Austin. www.ctvstexas.com
5
3
290
6
MARATHON BLVD.
NORTH AUSTIN
8
2
TM; © 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAP NOT TO SCALE N
NORTH CENTRAL NOW OPEN
Austin, in the Hyde Park neighborhood, in June. Shed o ers traditional barber services including haircuts, skin fades and beard trims. The shop is appointment only and o ers beer from Austin Beer- works and ciders from Fairweather Cider for guests. www.shedbarber.com 3 The Art Garage opened its second location at 5501 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, in July. The Art Garage o ers a variety of kid-friendly art classes including jewelry, pottery, glass fusion, mosaics, clay and painting as well as hosts events and summer camps. The Art Garage is locally owned by Kelly Emmert, who started the business in her garage 14 years ago. www.theartgarageaustin.com 4 Restaurant and drinkery Bouldin Acres opened its second location at 1806
Braker Lane, Austin, in late August. The new spot has the same o erings as its South Lamar Lane location, including food trucks, a full-service bar, pickleball courts, a playground, free Wi-Fi, TVs, a dog-friendly patio and lawn games. www.bouldinacres.com 5 KHON Thai Kitchen by Seeda opened at 5800 Burnet Road, Austin, in the former Sap’s Fine Thai Cuisine, in late May. The restaurant has a large menu featuring stu ed rice paper rolls, fried rice, stir-fried noodles, curry dishes and homemade ice cream. The restaurant is owned by the team behind Seeda Japa- nese Fusion, a food truck located in Lago Vista. The Sap's Westgate location is still open. www.khonthaiatx.com
1 Craft beer bar and eatery The Brass Tap opened a new location at the Triangle in the former Flying Saucer Draught Em- porium space in August. The Brass Tap, owned by local Steve Sheets, serves 63 draft beers, o ering an even mix among local, regional and international brews. The new spot also o ers table service for guests—even if they’re just ordering beer—and has a big outdoor patio. The Brass Tap is located at 815 W. 47th St., Austin. www.brasstapbeerbar.com/austin 2 Shed Barber and Supply opened its second location at 4631 Airport Blvd.,
__________________________ A gift for you!
Ready for an Fall? Discover Natural Solutions for Anxiety, Fatigue, & Better Focus for Kids and Adults. Visit Peoples Rx!
$ 10
OFF your next $25.00+ purchase
EXPIRES 10.31.23
WholeEarthProvision.com
South Lamar
North Lamar
Westlake Lakeline
COUPON VALID AT ANY WHOLE EARTH PROVISION CO. RETAIL LOCATION OR ONLINE. NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH. MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS OR USED TOWARDS GIFT CARD PURCHASES. ONE COUPON PER CUSTOMER PLEASE. __________________________ 1014 N. Lamar Blvd. • 4477 S. Lamar Blvd.
Perks Members receive 500 points with the purchase of select products. Not a Perks member? Pop in & sign up today or visit peoplesrx.com.
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
4
2
MOPAC
2 7
5
MOPAC
Goldy's
Foxtrot
6
COURTESY GOLDY’S
COURTESY FOXTROT
to construct The University of Texas at Austin Medical Center at the site of the Frank Erwin Center, which formerly housed the Longhorns’ basketball teams as well as other sports and events. The new medical center will include two towers: a specialty hospital and a new branch of MD Anderson, which is based in Houston. At least $2.5 billion is set aside to build the two hospitals, o cials said. The Erwin Center will be demolished by fall 2024, according to a news release. The construction of the hospitals is set to begin in 2026. www.mdanderson.org RELOCATIONS 7 Sweet shop Cookie Rich relocated from its former post at 2201 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, to 2401 Winstead Lane, Austin, next to Goldy’s, in late July. The shop serves bite-sized cookies, choco- late- lled cinnamon rolls, milkshakes, ice cream cookie sandwiches, butter y pea tea lemonade and co ee from local roast- er Greater Goods. Cookie Rich is owned by Lorin Peters. www.getcookierich.com ANNIVERSARIES 8 Live music venue Empire Control Room and Garage celebrated its 10th anniversary in August. The venue opened in 2013 as a “small band of musical mis ts,” the owners said, and has grown to showcase thousands of local and national artists. Empire is co-owned by Dave Machinist and Stephen Sternschein. www.empireatx.com
6
1
35
4
4 Foxtrot opened its third Austin location within city hall at 301 W. Second St., Ste. 100, Austin, on July 22. The Chicago-based store sells local products, including craft beers, wine, snacks and everyday essentials, and it operates an all-day cafe serving co ee, smoothies, breakfast tacos, salads and bowls. Fox- trot plans to open one more Austin store this year. www.foxtrotco.com 5 Zalat Pizza opened its rst Austin lo- cation at 2222 Rio Grande St., Ste. 190, in July. The Dallas-based pizza chain o ers a variety of unique pizzas, including an elote pizza, pickle pizza and the Pho Shiz- zle pizza as well as pretzel bites, cheesy bread and ice cream. Zalat Pizza is led by CEO Khanh Nguyen. www.zalatpizza.com COMING SOON 6 The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is expanding to Austin, o cials announced Aug. 14. University leadership unveiled plans The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center HANNAH NORTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT
8
3
35
DOWNTOWN WEST CAMPUS NOW OPEN
2401 Winsted Lane, Austin, on July 28. Goldy’s breakfast menu includes savory pastries. The lunch menu includes sand- wiches and salads. Goldy’s is owned by Austin local and Cookie Rich owner Lorin Peters. www.getgoldys.com 3 Hospitality company Gabriela’s Group opened a nightclub called Mala Fama in the former Buckshot space at 422 E. Sixth St., Austin, on July 28. The multi- oor nightclub is decked out in neon signs and o ers DJ sets, bottle service, live music and dancing. Mala Fama serves as the sister concept to the hospitality group’s original concept, Mala Vida, which is located a few blocks down. Instagram: malafamaaustin
1 Sapori Italian Roots opened its rst brick-and-mortar location at 800 Brazos St., Ste. 215, Austin, on Aug. 10. The restaurant—owned by Tony DeStefano— previously operated a South Austin food truck called Il Saporis for four years. The new concept o ers an expanded menu. Instagram: Saporiatx 2 Goldy’s —a new breakfast and lunch spot with a walk-up window—opened in an outdoor venue called Little eld’s at
RICK COFER AUSTIN’S GO-TO CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
COFERCONNELLY.COM • 602 W. 11 TH ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701 • 512-200-3801
7
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE
2
D
6
360
MOPAC
7
4 5
1
8
Hopscotch
2
COURTESY HOPSCOTCH
3
8
35
290
71
TM; © 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAP NOT TO SCALE N
Austin Motel
COURTESY AUSTIN MOTEL
SOUTH CENTRAL NOW OPEN
5 Popeye’s Chicken will open Oct. 1 in the upper level food court of Barton Creek Square at 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin. Popeye’s is a fast-food restaurant that offers fried chicken, biscuits, chicken fingers and french fries. www.popeyes.com 6 A new Chinese restaurant called Zoé Tong will open in the Zilker neighborhood at 1530 Barton Springs Road, Austin, this fall. The restaurant will serve modern Chinese food and cocktails, including noodle bowls, pan-seared dumplings, crispy duck and scallion tortillas. www.zoetong.com RENOVATIONS 7 The Alamo Drafthouse location at 1120 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, is getting a “major facelift,” representatives announced in July. Theaters 5-9 are receiving new luxury reclining chairs and two-person sofas that have small tables attached, and theater 5 has also received a new surround sound system. Upgrades to the remaining theaters will be rolled
Peck, Chris Arial and Allan Bautista, three best friends who met working at Austra- lian-inspired restaurant Two Hands. 3 Sandwich shop Coast 2 Coast Subs opened at 2700 S. Lamar Blvd., Aus- tin, in early August. The shop serves a variety of cheesesteaks, including several vegan versions, as well as salads, hoagies and dessert. The shop is located at The Tailor Shop food hall, which also houses Pizzeria Grata and Taqueria 1836. www.coast2coastsubs.com COMING SOON 4 Man Outfitters is expected to open in Barton Creek Square at 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin, mid-October, directly across from the Apple Store on the lower level Dillard’s wing of the mall, according to a spokesperson with the store. Man Outfitters is an Austin-based company that launched in 2015 online, offering active and outdoor apparel from different brands including The North Face, Billabong and Quicksilver. www.manoutfitters.com
out over the next several months. www.drafthouse.com/austin ANNIVERSARIES 8 Austin Motel , located at 1220 S. Congress Ave., Austin, celebrates its 85th anniversary this year. The motel opened in 1938, with its landmark neon sign, and has been in continuous operation since. Austin hotelier Liz Lambert’s hospitality company Bunkhouse, which also operates nearby Hotel San Jose and Hotel Saint Cecilia, took over the motel in 2016 and reopened it the following year. 512-441-1157. www.austinmotel.com IN THE NEWS Thirsty Planet Brewing Co. , the brewery behind the Thirsty Goat Ale, closed its taproom and is suspending distribution, owner Brian Smittle confirmed Aug. 14. The taproom was located at 8201 Con- gress Ave., Austin. Thirsty Planet Brewing Co. began in South Austin in 2010. Smit- tle did not provide a timeline for shutting down distribution.
1 A “playful” new restaurant called Elementary opened at 2026 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, on July 28. Elementary’s menu is casual fine dining and features cuisines from around the world, such as birria soup dumplings; banh mi eclairs; and al pastor tortellini. The restaurant’s interior follows the childlike theme with walls and furniture painted in primary colors, menus typed on notebook paper and a handmade set of monkey bars that hovers above the bar. Instagram: elementaryatx 2 A 15-seat natural wine bar called Hopscotch opened at 2032 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, on July 28. Hopscotch serves natural wines, classic cocktails, tinned fish and light bites. The bar also utilizes food scraps from its sister-restau- rant next door, Elementary, to create new dishes and prevent food waste. The two establishments are owned by chef Colter
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
290
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE
EAST AUSTIN
1
4
42
BARBARA JORDAN BLVD.
4
35
Lynny's
Nando's PERi-PERi
7
COURTESY WHITNEY DEVIN
COURTESY NANDO'S PERIPERI
973 6 Origin Studio House , a co ee shop and community space for Black Austini- tes, will open at 2925 E. 12th St. Austin, in late September. The co ee shop— owned by Brittney Williams and Dante Clemons—will showcase art from local Black artists and hold frequent events. www.originstudiohouse.com RELOCATIONS 7 Fleet Co ee relocated its Tarrytown shop at 2401 Winsted Lane, Austin, to 2806 Manor Road, Austin, in late July. The new location serves espresso drinks, pour over co ee and pastries and shares a space with Mexican food truck La Santa Barbacha. The shop is open daily from 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. www. eetco ee.com CLOSINGS 130 TOLL be located on the ground oor of the Origin Hotel at 1825 McBee St., Austin. www.nandosperiperi.com 5 A tavern called Murray’s will open at 2316 Webberville Road, Austin, in the former Gourmands Neighborhood Pub space, by the end of 2023. Murray’s is similar to a New York City style-tavern and o ers classic cocktails. Murray’s is led by Travis Tober of Nickel City, Brett Esler of Whisler’s and Nick Yanes of Juni- per. www.murraysaustin.com 8 Paper Route Bakery o cially closed June 10. Paper Route served organic, made-from-scratch cakes. The shop had been located at 1010 E. Cesar Chavez St., Ste. D, Austin, since 2018.
2
3
6
183
8
Fabrik
1
COURTESY FABRIK
GUNTER ST.
1201 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Unit 200, Aus- tin. The craft store o ers holiday decor, custom framing, back to school supplies, as well as classes and events. An opening date for the new store has not been announced. www.michaels.com 3 Fabrik —a plant-based ne dining restaurant—opened at 1701 E. Martin Luther King Blvd., Austin, on Aug. 10. The restaurant serves a seasonal menu focusing on Japanese, Nordic and Italian cuisines. Fabrik is led by co-owner and chef Je Wheeler, who spent years staging at Michelin-starred restaurants as well as working at vegan and vegetarian spots around the world. www.fabrikatx.com COMING SOON 4 South African restaurant Nando’s PERi-PERi will open a new location in the Mueller neighborhood in early 2024. The fast-casual restaurant is known for its 24-hour marinated ame-grilled chicken, as well as its honey sweet potatoes, fries and mac and cheese. Nando’s will
5
TM; © 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MAP NOT TO SCALE N
EAST AUSTIN NOW OPEN 1 A trailer serving quick bread and espresso called Lynny’s opened on Aug. 2. The trailer, owned by longtime Aus- tinites Erin Gentry and Lynn Metcalf, the
former owner of Metcalf BBQ, focuses on specialty co ee, pancakes, biscuits and other diner classics. Lynny’s is located at MASS Gallery, an artist-run gallery and community space in the Govalle neigh- borhood at 705 Gunter St., Austin. 2 Michael’s will open a new store in the former Bed Bath & Beyond location at
71
∙ Get updated vaccines ∙ See a full picture of your child’s health ∙ Ask learning and behavioral questions ∙ Schedule daytime, evenings & weekends CHECK IN FOR A CHECKUP
ARCcheckup.com Book now
9
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
TO DO LIST
September events
COMPILED BY BRITTANY ANDERSON & AMANDA CUTSHALL
23 GET SOME SCHOOL SPIRIT Austin ISD will hold its second annual Austin ISD All-District Showcase at Palmer Events Center. The event will include interactive activities, various free school supplies and student performers. The event allows parents and students to get to know what makes their campus special. 9 a.m.-noon. Free. 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin. www.palmereventscenter.com/events 23 PLAY WITH PUPPIES The Arboretum is hosting its fourth annual Pups & Pints event featuring vendor booths by The Pawstin Bakery and others; adoptions from Safe Refuge of Central Texas; beverage samplings; live music; and family-friendly activities. Guests who donate pet supplies—such as 24-inch dog kennels, puppy pads, dog toys, or Nulo canned puppy or adult dog food—will be entered to win Arboretum gift cards. Pets are welcome. 4-6 p.m. Free. 10000 Research Blvd., Austin. EventBrite: 4th Annual Pups & Pints 24 WATCH A FASHION SHOW Beautifully Loved is hosting its ninth annual Beautifully Loved Fashion Show at Palmer Events Center with patients from Dell Children’s Hospital and others to raise funds for the organization. Participants are provided with professional hair and makeup services, clothes from local boutiques, a pre-show photoshoot and a spotlight on the runway for the public fashion show. 4-8 p.m. $20 (children), $40 (adults). 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin. www.beautifullyloved.org 30 TASTE TEXAS CRAFT BEER The Texas Craft Brewers Festival will take place at Fiesta Gardens. The festival will feature more than 80 Texas craft breweries, o ering over 200 handcrafted beer samples plus food trucks and live music. Ages 21 and up. 2-6:30 p.m. $20 (designated driver), $50 (general admission). 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St., Austin. www.texascraftbrewersfestival.com
SEPT. 30
KICK OFF OKTOBERFEST 12 FOX BEER CO.
12 Fox Beer Co. and Vibe Artisan Markets will host a family- and dog-friendly Oktoberfest kicko event in Dripping Springs. Attendees can explore more than 50 vendors with handmade goods, live music, food trucks, games and beer. Noon- 5 p.m. Free. 4700 W. Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs. Facebook: Vibe Artisan Markets (Courtesy Vibe Artisan Markets)
The 5K will bene t advocacy for children in the foster care system. FEATURED EVENT SUPERHERO RUN Court-appointed special advocate organizations of Travis, Williamson, Bastrop and other Central Texas counties are hosting the 14th annual Superhero Run at Circuit of the Americas on Sept. 17. Along with the 5K race, the event will feature music, snacks, games, family- and pet-friendly activities, and a costume contest. The organizations are aiming to raise $135,000 to support advocacy for children in foster care. 7 a.m. $10-$50. 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin www.casasuperherorun.com
10 CATCH A SOCCER GAME Tour Águila is returning to Austin for the second time as Club América faces Liga MX’s Tigres UANL at Q2 Stadium. Prior to the match, a fan fest will take place outside the stadium with live music, food, team mascots, championship trophies and more. 4:30 p.m. Starting at $60. 10414 McKalla Place, Austin. www.q2stadium.com 17 SUPPORT VETERANS The Travis Manion Foundation will hold its annual 9/11 Heroes Run at Camp Mabry. Participants of all tness levels are invited to participate. The foundation supports members and families of fallen soldiers. 8 a.m. (opening ceremony), 9 a.m. (race). $22.50-$105. 2200 W. 35th St., Austin. www.travismanion.org 21 THROUGH 28 EXPLORE THE BIG SCREEN Fantastic Fest, the nation’s largest weeklong genre lm festival celebrating horror, sci- , action and fantasy, will come to Alamo Drafthouse this fall. The weeklong festival will o er live podcast recordings, parties and Austrian cocktail robots—in addition to lms. Times vary. $275-$1,495. 1120 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin. www.fantasticfest.com
SEPTEMBER 01 EXPERIENCE ‘90S ROCK St. Elmo Brewing Company will o er a chance to hear ‘90s rock live with two tribute bands including The Battle of ATX—A Rage Against the Machine cover band—and Foo Shot—a Foo Fighters cover band. 7 p.m. (door), 8 p.m. (show), Free. 440 E. St. Elmo Road, G-2, Austin. Facebook: St. Elmo Brewing 09 CELEBRATE THE LONG CENTER The Long Center will host a communitywide open house in honor of the inaugural Teresa Lozano Long Community Day to celebrate the center’s cofounder. The family-friendly block party will have live music, games, cocktails, food trucks and more. Noon, Free. 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.thelongcenter.org 10 SUPPORT LIVESTRONG Cyclists, runners and walkers are invited to participate in the 27th annual Livestrong Challenge event at Auditorium Shores in honor of those who have been a ected by cancer. 7:30 a.m. (ride), 8:30 a.m. (run/walk). Free (virtual participants), $40 (runners/walkers), $135 (cyclists). 900 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.livestrong.org/events
D
812
PILAND TRIANGLE
N
Find more or submit Central 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.
4103 N. Interstate 35 Austin, TX • 512.472.5015 • NTRocks.com Nature’s Treasures “We Rock” Book Fair ~presents~ September 16 11a-5:30p • Bookshops • Publishers • Authors • Signings • Educators
Fluorite The Student’s Stone The perfect Back to School stone, helps with
• Concentration • Memorization • Analytical abilities • Test taking
Save the Date! 1st Annual Pet Parade
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES City of Austin starts school safety projects
COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE
ONGOING PROJECTS
INITIAL SCHOOL SAFETY PROJECTS
The city of Austin will make street safety upgrades at 19 campuses. It is starting with the following six:
GUADALUPE ST.
N
Dobie College Prep Academy : New sidewalks on multiple street segments, pedestrian islands, curb extensions, new bus stops and a shared use path
N
The city is ramping up transpor- tation safety upgrades at 19 schools throughout Austin as part of its Safe Routes to School program, as Austin Independent School District students returned to school Aug. 14. Crews are currently working on six projects that will improve sidewalks, crosswalks, intersections and bike lanes. The city will launch 13 addi- tional projects in the fall. Austin has finished over 400 projects at over 100 schools since the program began in 2017. The improvements come as the Texas Department of Transportation urges drivers statewide to slow down in local school zones. In 2022, there were 746 traffic crashes in Texas school zones, resulting in 23 serious injuries, according to TxDOT.
ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF AUG. 11. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT SWANEWS@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM. and Public Works Department are working on safety improvements at the intersection of North Lamar Bou- levard and West Koenig Lane. In the last five years, there have been more than 150 crashes at the intersection, according to city data. The work will add a median on the right turn from westbound Koenig Lane; extend me- dians on West Koenig Lane and create two new pedestrian crossings; and im- prove signals, ramps and crosswalks. Timeline: May 2023-Sept. 2023 Cost: $325,000 Funding source: 2016 mobility bond Intersection improvements Crews with the Austin Transportation
N Anderson High School : New sidewalks, new curb ramps and school driveway reconstruction
NORTHLEDGE DR.
N
A
Pecan Springs Elementary School : New and rehabilitated sidewalks
B
N
B Murchison Middle School: New sidewalks on multiple street segments, pedestrian islands, curb extensions, new bus stops and a shared use path A Doss Elementary School: New and rehabilitated sidewalks, new shared- use path, pedestrian island, curb extension and new bus stops
N Martin Middle School : New curb ramps, curb extensions, a pedestrian crossing island and rebuilt bus stops
SOURCE: THE AUSTIN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND A PUBLIC WORKS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
TRANSFORMING LIVES • STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY
SHOP AT THE THRIFT HOUSE VOLUNTEER WITH US SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY
Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–3pm
FOR AN INTIMATE CONCERT FEATURING PORTUGAL. THE MAN
4901 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756 | alaustin.org
GET TICKETS:
PARTY.AUSTINPARKS.ORG
11
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
DEVELOPMENT BRIEFS
Developments underway in the Central Austin area
COMPILED BY BEN THOMPSON
Dairy plant site cleared for landmark East Austin redevelopment
The transformation of a dairy plant into East Aus- tin’s tallest mixed-use residential project is moving forward, despite objections of some neighborhood and environmental groups. The details: A rezoning that would clear the way for redevelopment of the Borden Dairy Co.’s 21-acre property at 71 Strandtman Cove off US 183 was approved by Austin City Council July 20 in an 8-1 vote. Under the proposal from Endeavor Real Estate Group, the Borden dairy silos would give way to residential towers up to 120 feet tall—potentially 10 to 12 stories—alongside other features. As proposed, the project is set to include: • 1,400 residential units • A 220-room hotel • 411,500 square feet of office space • A 66,000-square-foot sit-down restaurant • 40,000 square feet of retail space
The Borden site borders the Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and is several hundred feet from the Colorado itself. Several community members shared concerns about the impacts of a dense project with taller towers coming so close to the preserve and largely undeveloped river corridor. While most public testimony about the project has been in opposition, Montopolis resident Gary Babbit said he looks forward to new towers rising on the east side. “I’m excited for a change,” he said. “Seriously, taking an industrial site and parking lot and turning it into a mixed-use development for people to live, work, eat and play … this kind of development is its own community benefit.” Endeavor committed to an extended 75-foot buf- fer between its development and the sanctuary and building to Dark Sky standards with more reflective glass for birds. The developer will reserve 10% of the project’s residential units at affordable rates and
Borden Tract
STRANDTMAN COVE
COLORADO RIVER
COLORADO RIVER PARK WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
183
N
fund east side housing preservation.
One more thing: District 3 Council Member José Velásquez was sanctioned on Aug. 23 for failing to list past sources of income and affiliations related to the East Austin Conservancy, which struck a deal for housing funding with Endeavor, on city financial disclosures.
City-backed development plans fall through
3423 Holdings/Ryan Drive Site
Aspen Heights/HealthSouth
RYAN DR.
A pair of long-anticipated rede- velopments of city land fell through this year, kicking off a new round of planning and review before hundreds of affordable housing units and other community benefits can be realized. The details: 3423 Holding’s Crestview initiative at 6909 Ryan Drive—an Aus- tin Energy storage lot in Crestview— proposed nearly 350 apartments and townhomes with a majority reserved at affordable rates. The city and 3423 began negotiat- ing final terms for a redevelopment plan last year. However, the firm
backed out on May 25 given eco- nomic factors such as rising interest rates and borrowing uncertainty, 3423 Chief Operating Officer Ben Barlin told Community Impact . Downtown, a project from Aspen Heights Partners would’ve brought a pair of 37-story towers with nearly 1,000 residences—more than 200 reserved for lower-income tenants— to the former HealthSouth facility at 1215 Red River St., alongside a new public plaza and cultural space. Austin and Aspen Heights had been in talks over that project for years, but city staff eventually ended negotiations in late June. Staff cited changing market conditions that
35
N
N
led Aspen Heights to suggest a new plan that would have cut down on the unit count and led to “significant increases in project density and complexity” that were “too extreme to overcome,” city spokesperson Memi Cárdenas said. What’s next: On July 20, City Council cleared the way for reboots of both processes. An approved resolution from
Council Member Zo Qadri, who represents downtown, formally recommitted to the HealthSouth redevelopment with updates to come as soon as September. Sepa- rately, officials also voted to transfer the Ryan Drive site to the nonprofit Austin Housing Finance Corp., which will handle a new project. Other city-backed redevelop- ments, including the 19-acre site in St. John remain on track.
Over 30 exceptional programs and expanding, four on-site clinics to serve the community, and a world of more to come. IN ROUND ROCK. FOR ROUND ROCK.
RRC.TXST.EDU
Texas State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, committed to providing a welcoming educational and working environment for all.
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
News from Austin CITY & COUNTY $5.5 billion budget, property tax rate increase passes
HIGHLIGHTS AUSTIN Entry fees at all city pools except for Barton Springs were waived until Sept. 30. AUSTIN Police Chief Joseph Chacon will retire in early September after 25 years on the Austin Police Department force, he announced Aug. 21. Police Chief of Sta Robin Henderson will take over on an interim basis while a search for a permanent chief takes place. AUSTIN A recent internal audit found the city’s publicly- accessible data portal faces several management and accessibility issues and often o ers con icting or outdated information. The report included several suggestions to improve transparency and e ciency. AUSTIN A federal judge ruled Aug. 1 that a city ordinance banning property owners from getting a short-term rental license for homes that aren’t their primary residence was unconstitutional, opening doors for more services such as Airbnb. AUSTIN City Council voted to move toward reducing the number of alerts the city must mail out to neighbors when nearby properties are moving through zoning or development updates. The notication distance could be cut from 500 to 200 feet away from relevant properties, while a new electronic notice system could be established. Austin City Council will meet Sept. 12 and 19 at 9 a.m. and Sept. 14 and 21 at 10 a.m. 301 W. Second St., Austin www.austintexas.gov Travis County Commissioners Court will meet Sept. 12 and 19 at 9 a.m. and Sept. 7 and 21 and 1:30 p.m. 700 Lavaca St., Austin. www.traviscountytx.gov/ commissioners-court MEETINGS WE COVER
BY ELLE BENT
COST TO TAXPAYERS
The average Austin homeowner will see over a 6% increase on their tax bill due to rising property values and an over 3% increase in the property tax rate from last year
AUSTIN A $5.5 billion budget for scal year 2023-24 was passed by council Aug. 16. The budget was adopted 10-1, with Council Member Mackenzie Kelly voting against it. The overview: The budget includes base wage increases for city employ- ees and an increase in the Austin Police Department budget by $32.4 million, or by about 7% from FY 2022-23. Under the adopted budget, prop- erty tax rates will be $0.4458 per $100 valuation for 2023-24, a 3.4% increase from FY 2022-23. Due to tax, rate and fee changes, a typical ratepayer will see an increase of 3.6%, or an additional $172 per year. The breakdown: The general fund budget is $1.4 billion, with the capital
Property tax rate of $0.4458 per $100 valuation for scal year 2023-24, a 3.4% increase from FY 2022-23. 3.6% increase from the combined projected impact of tax, rate and fee changes—equivalent to an increase by $172 per year, or $14.31 per month, for the owner of a median valued home and typical rate-user.
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT
budget including $1.6 million in planned spending. The budget includes: • $2 million for a mental health diversion center • $1.3 million for a family stabiliza- tion grant program • $1.35 million for testing and treat- ing sexually transmitted diseases • $80.9 million for homelessness response
• $1 million for Austin Energy to conduct a study to move the distri- bution system underground • $2.6 million for incentives for police cadet recruitment • $87.2 million in planned capital spending for a ordable housing What’s next? The budget will go into e ect Oct. 1 and last until Sept. 30, 2024.
O cials shelve Zilker Park plan
BY BEN THOMPSON
opposing the draft plan Aug. 7, Mayor Kirk Watson said interim City Manager Jesús Garza had ended the planning process. City o cials said con- tention among Austinites over high-pro le elements in the plan led to it being shelved. Throughout the plan- ning process, dozens of residents have voiced concerns over bringing negative environmental
Weeks before Austin City Council was set to take a nal vote on the controver- sial Zilker Park Vision Plan, city o cials announced that the proposed frame- work was e ectively dead following more than two years of development and public debate. What’s happening: After three council members released a statement
Zilker Metropolitan Park covers 351 acres near downtown.
DARCY SPRAGUECOMMUNITY IMPACT
What’s next: Going for- ward, Watson said the city will take a break before circling back to popular items while trying to reach common ground on more disputed aspects.
and climate outcomes; the park’s commercialization; and more. Others have stated support for the proposal, which aims to address the park’s overuse.
13
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
2023 EDUCATION EDITION COMMUNITY IMPACT IS PROUD TO SAY THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS.
GOLD SPONSOR
Next Level Urgent Care is committed to providing high quality, a ordable health care for all. If you need a sports physical, sprain an ankle in volleyball or wake up with a scratchy throat, remember Next Level Urgent Care. Our app allows you to get in line from the comfort of your home or car, so there’s no wait in the waiting room! Business owners, Next Level can save your company money while o ering a great bene t to your employees, through our employer direct primary care, urgent care, virtual medicine program. Contact us to nd out more about this employer bene t prime@nextlevelurgentcare.com.
GOLD SPONSOR
At UT Health Austin, what matters most to you is what matters most to us, too. As the clinical practice of the Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin, our world-class physician-educators deliver the highest quality of compassionate care to our patients while actively teaching and inspiring the next generation of medical professionals. Specialties include orthopedics, women’s health, ophthalmology, brain health, cancer care, primary care, and more as well as pediatric and adult specialty services available through our clinical partnerships. In-person and telehealth appointments are available. Make an appointment today by visiting uthealthaustin.org or calling 1-833-UT-CARES (1-833-882-2737).
DISTRICT DATA
Data and information from local school districts
COMPILED BY DARCY SPRAGUE
English learners Economically disadvantaged students STUDENT STATISTICS, 2022 23
SOURCES: AUSTIN ISD, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY COMMUNITY IMPACT
While Austin is considered a property wealthy district, the district is facing budgetary and enrollment issues. This year, the district approved raises for teachers and sta , despite that causing a $53 million shortfall. AUSTIN ISD
Special education students
51.46%% 30.46% 13.90%
Statewide
62%
23.02% 12.74%
REVENUE SOURCES, 2019 2023
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Percent change from 2020-21: 1.16%
2020 21
2021 22
2019 20
2022 23
$1.68B TOTAL REVENUE:
$1.73B TOTAL REVENUE:
$1.69B TOTAL REVENUE:
$1.79B TOTAL REVENUE:
$1.51B LOCAL
$1.7B LOCAL
$1.49B LOCAL
$1.62B LOCAL
$60.15M STATE $120.85M FEDERAL
$66.75M STATE $20.66M FEDERAL
$83.41M STATE $108.11M FEDERAL
$62.86M STATE $49.58M FEDERAL
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24*
*PROJECTED
15
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • AUGUST 2023
INSIDE INFORMATION Revamping public school accountability BY HANNAH NORTON At the beginning of each school year, the Texas Education Agency rates public schools and districts based on student achievement, school progress and closing the gaps for at-risk students. Individual campuses and districts receive A-F scores, which are meant to hold schools accountable and inform Texans about student performance. Scores for the 2022-23 school year will be released Sept. 28, following months of revisions to the accountability system. The A-F accountability system was established during the 2017 legislative session, under House Bill 22. What is the A F system? Ratings are based on a variety of factors, including
2023 EDUCATION EDITION
What are the goals? What does the update mean?
Serving students on alternate paths O cials adjusted performance indicators to better account for students on alternative paths, such as those enrolled in dropout recovery schools. These schools help students who have dropped out of school get back on track and graduate. Dropout rates will no longer count against overall campus performance.
Boosting public transparency Ratings for campuses and districts are posted online annually, but more information will be publicly available this year. Texans will be able to access data on attendance and absenteeism, advanced learning programs, and more, Morath said. This is meant to give parents a greater overview of their districts’ e orts to improve student performance.
Improving evaluation of student growth To give more attention to students who are performing below their grade level, the TEA added a new indicator called “accelerated instruction.” This allows o cials to accurately measure the performance of students who switch the language they take tests in—such as Spanish to English— between years.
TEA Commissioner Mike Morath said the revised system provides a more holistic view of student performance, focuses more on students in need, and aligns the performance of schools and districts.
Revising college, career and military readiness indicators Over the next four years, the TEA will implement new workforce certication requirements. Morath said there will be a greater emphasis on hands-on experience, rather than just course completion. For example, a student who takes welding classes in high school will gain real-life experience in welding and receive an industry certication.
Aligning classroom instruction The TEA also redesigned the STAAR in 2023 “to better align with classroom instruction” following the passage of HB 3906 in 2019. The exams were administered almost exclusively online in 2023 and focused on writing, o cials said.
High school scores improve
How students perform on the annual State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness largely impacts the annual A-F ratings for public schools and districts. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tests were not administered in 2020. The exam was redesigned in 2023, so scores from this year cannot be directly compared to previous years.
Students who approached grade level, or passed
Increasing focus on at-risk students Previously, o cials evaluated the academic performance of each student group—including racial and ethnic groups, economically disadvantaged students, students taking special education classes and more. This year, indicators will focus on the performance of the two “lowest-performing,” or most at risk, groups.
Updating target scores
Enhancing district ratings Morath said each district was previously evaluated “as if it is a single K-12 campus.” This meant district ratings were based heavily on the performance of high school seniors, whose graduation and postsecondary readiness are measured. This September, the new ratings will be calculated with a weighted average for each campus, giving each school a balanced share in the overall score.
*NO DATA FOR 2020 **2023 TESTS WERE SCORED DIFFERENTLY, SO THEY ARE NOT DIRECTLY COMPARABLE TO PAST YEARS.
Performance indicators were updated to re ect where students and schools were after the COVID-19 outbreak, Morath said. For example, college, career and military readiness scores have improved by 38% across Texas since 2017. “This is an untold success story,” Morath said.
ALGEBRA I
80% 90% 100% 70% 0% BIOLOGY
70% 80% 90% 60% 0% ENGLISH I
70% 80% 90% 60% 0% ENGLISH II
80% 90% 100% 70% 0% U.S. HISTORY
80% 90% 100% 70% 0%
academic growth high school graduation rates how prepared students are for college, a career or the military the annual State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness
SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY COMMUNITY IMPACT
STAAR scores for high school students were released June 30 and grades 3-8 scores were released Aug. 16.
On Sept. 28, A-F scores for schools and districts will be posted online at www.txschools.gov.
HIGHLAND 5775 Airport Blvd (512) 366-8300 ARBORETUM 10515 North Mopac Expressway (512) 342-6893
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16-17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32Powered by FlippingBook