The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION
VOLUME 15, ISSUE 12 MARCH 25 APRIL 28, 2023
Bar scene booms on South Menchaca
Sustainable community underway in South Austin New women's boutique opens in Dripping Springs
9
Development briefs
20
People gathered March 4 at Armadillo Den to watch an Austin FC game, hear live music or enjoy a drink. Armadillo Den is one of several bars in the growing South Menchaca Road stretch. (Darcy Sprague/Community Impact)
South Austin roadway transforms into lively entertainment district
closed Oct. 23 after eight years; however, the owners said they plan to nd a new business to take over the space that “keeps the Austin dream alive and the South Austin scene weird, unique and soulful." “It’s amazing to watch the growth down south and see so many options for the residents,” said Naomi Kramer, one of the owners of South Austin Beer Garden. “The establishments are locally owned and operated, which continues to enhance that true South Austin vibe.” The South Austin vibe she refers to includes a unique mixture of food trucks, live music and entertainment.
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
A roughly 1-mile stretch of South Menchaca Road, between West Slaughter Lane and Old Manchaca Road, has dramatically changed over the past four years with the opening of ve additional bars since 2019. Moontower Saloon, the longest-running bar in the strip, opened in 2012. A seventh drinkery, Indian Roller,
LOCAL VOTER GUIDE 2023 Study nds Lady Bird Lake often overcapacity
21
CONTINUED ON 30
2 0 2 3
LOCAL VOTER GUIDE
Austinites to vote on clashing police oversight items in May
Sample ballot
25
BY ELLE BENT
Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries
PROPOSITION A
PROPOSITION B
Two propositions, both titled the “Austin Police Oversight Act,” will appear on the ballot in May, yet each would achieve di erent results in regards to external accountability of police misconduct if approved. The con icting oversight mea- sures are brought to Austin voters amid an expiring contract between
• Goals: deter police misconduct and brutality through strengthened civilian and city oversight and increased transparency • Author: Equity Action, a criminal justice political group
• Goals: to strengthen the city’s system and civilian police oversight system • Author: Voters for Oversight and Police Accountability, a political group with funding from the Austin Police Association
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
CONTINUED ON 28
From mammography to urogynecology, our women’s care team puts you first. After all, you know what you need better than anyone else. And we’re right here in Oak Hill to support you every step of the way. Care that’s on your side and around the corner
Schedule today
Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2023 Baylor Scott & White Health. 18-AU-586763-RHAustinWomen
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Everywhere You Are
GREEN BY DESIGN FREE VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS
TUESDAY, APRIL 11 PLANNING AND DESIGN
TUESDAY, APRIL 18 MATERIALS AND LANDSCAPING
TUESDAY, APRIL 25 HOME SYSTEMS
JOIN WEBINARS LIVE OR WATCH RECORDINGS LATER
√ 24-7 account access No minimum balance requirements or monthly fees √ Early payday with direct deposit (up to 2 days) √ Personalized service and financial health guidance √ With our Free checking account you get:
REGISTER TODAY austinenergy.com/go/webinar
Scan to Open Your Free Checking Account Now UFCU.org
Federally insured by NCUA. Programs subject to change.
©2023 Austin Energy
3
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
ONE SMART NEIGHBOR
As drought conditions continue, it’s important that we all help conserve our precious resource. The new My ATX Water Program provides the tools to help you save water and money. Your new City of Austin water meter, along with the My ATX Water Customer Portal , will give you access to near-real- time water use data so you can maximize the savings.
Benefits of My ATX Water 6 Continuous usage and leak notifications 6 Personalized alerts 6 Water budgeting features 6 Customized water-saving tips and rebate information Don’t have your new meter yet? Don’t worry! You can still join the My ATX Water Customer Portal now to access monthly water use data and other benefits at myatxwater.org .
austinwater.org
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
THIS ISSUE
MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Deeda Lovett EDITOR Darcy Sprague REPORTERS Elle Bent, Amanda Cutshall, Katy McAfee, Ben Thompson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joseph Veloz ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Weston Warner 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, P ugerville, TX 78660 • 512 989 6808 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES swanews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING swaads@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 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. ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM DEEDA: Our rst house sat about a mile north of Moontower Saloon, so we were frequent guests on its sprawling patio under the twinkly lights along Menchaca Road. At the time, it was one of the only beer gardens in the area. Today, it’s surrounded on both sides by bars. In our front-page story, we share how the stretch has become a going-out district in the heart of South Austin, or what Moontower refers to as “Way South Awesome, Texas.” Deeda Lovett, GENERAL MANAGER
FROM DARCY: This month we delved into the police contract negotiations and two police oversight ballot measures knowing that the topic has invoked strong political feelings. As always, our goal is to provide you with the facts. Our hope is that you read our front-page story and walk into the ballot box understanding what you are voting on and which way you wish to cast a ballot—for Prop. A, Prop. B, both or neither. Check out Page 28 for more info. Darcy Sprague, EDITOR
CORRECTION: Volume 15, issue 11 On Page 1, Dripping Springs ISD would fund the construction of one new school through the bond if passed. The expansion of Sycamore Springs Middle School and the design of three other schools would also be funded, but the construction of the those three new facilities is not included in the bond. On Page 30-31, the correct Dripping Springs ISD tax rate is $1.2929 and the current student capacity at Sycamore Springs Elementary School is 850.
Hey, readers! Would your employer bene t from advertising in Community Impact's email newsletter, delivering to more than 100,000 inboxes across 36 Texas neighborhoods?
communityimpact.com
Share CI's name with your company as a marketing idea.
@impactnewsatx
@impactnews_swa
Email in toschedule a consultation: salessupport@communityimpact.com.
linkedin.com/company/communityimpact
@communityimpactaustin
Or visit our webpage to learn more. Newsletter advertising is perfect for branding, events and announcements plus long-form sponsored content.
Proudly printed by
© 2023 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
BEGINS EARLY GOOD DENTAL HEALTH There’s nothing more important than your child’s smile!
Elizabeth Ramirez Garza REALTOR ® Broker Associate, GRI,ABR,SRS 512.914.8298 LizRamirezGarzaRealty@gmail.com
Coldwell Banker Realty 609 Castle Ridge #440 Austin, TX 78746
(512) 892-0013 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Suite 292 Austin, TX 78704 thielpediatricdentistry.com We take pride in providing a fun, comfortable visit for your child.
SCAN FOR MORE INFO Thinking about $elling your home this $pring? Call me to get your home li $ ted & $ pring into the Real Estate Market.
5
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
1
BARTON CREEK BLVD.
360
MOPAC
8
2 3
7
MOWINKLE DR.
71
16
15
AUSTEA
290
AMANDA CUTSHALL/COMMUNITY IMPACT
290
183 6 Bodhi’s Hideaway , a ‘90s-themed beach bar, will begin serving beach-in- spired drinks in late March. Situated on South Menchaca Road at 10402 Men- chaca Road, Bldg. D, Austin, Bodhi’s Hideaway is the second project of David Pearce and Ryan Thomas—owners of South Austin Beer Garden. There will be an indoor space as well as a large covered deck area with televisions and games, in addition to areas ideal for group photos. There will also be a food truck on-site. www.bodhishideaway.com. 7 Underdog —a wine bar, restaurant and retail space—will open in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood this spring. The menu consists of “eclectic” wines and Korean dishes such as handmade noodles and crispy potato and leek pancakes with caviar. Underdog is led by Claudia Lee and Momofuku alumnus Richard Hargreave, and will be located at 1600 South First St., Austin. www.underdog-atx.com COMING SOON 5 Local Austinites Tiff and Nate Wales will open a new bar and restaurant called The Local in late summer or early fall at 9901 Brodie Lane., Ste. 120, Austin. It will offer classic Americana diner and tavern fare with a full bar featuring cocktails, wines and beers. Contact information is not yet available. 8 Modern Animal —a Los Angeles based veterinary clinic—will open two Austin locations in mid-2023. Modern Animal is a membership-based clinic that offers a full range of veterinary services, including 24/7 virtual care. The south central Aus- tin clinic will be located at 1100 S. Lamar Blvd., Bldg. 1, Ste. 1105, Austin, and will
4
290
1
13
1826
10
71
35
11
N
.
MOPAC
14
5
12
9
SOUTH AUSTIN
6
45
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
SOUTH AUSTIN NOW OPEN
lifestyle clothing store features brands such as Oakley, Ray-Ban and Hurley. The store offers shoes, clothing and accessories such as hats and sunglasses. Knockout has eight locations, including an additional Austin location in Lakeline Mall. www.kowear.com 3 Andino Gelato —a gelato shop fami- ly-owned by Carlos and Carola Bejarano— opened a new location at 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin, in the food court at Barton Creek Square on Feb. 22. Andino Gelato makes 32 flavors of gelato that are made daily in small batches, a quarter of which are fat-free and dairy-free. All of Andino Gelato’s products, including its
cookies and waffle cones, are made from scratch using recipes that were passed down for generations. The pair will also open a location at 2214 S. First St., Austin in early April. www.andinogelato.com 4 Johnson Fitness and Wellness opened at 5300 MoPac Expy., Ste. 501, Austin, as part of the retailer’s 17 stores opening this March across Texas. The Wisconsin-based company has a total of 114 stores in the United States and 364 globally. The store offers specialty fitness products including treadmills and stationary bikes. 512-346-9300. www.johnsonfitness.com
1 AUSTEA opened in Southwest Austin on Feb. 25 and offers items such as cof- fee, boba teas and smoothies. The shop is owned by Vu Tran, Ann Vu and Tony Kha. The family-run, independently owned establishment is at 500 E. Ben White Blvd., Ste. D 700, Austin. 512-382-1490. www.austeashoppe.com 2 Knockout Wear opened in Barton Creek Square at 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Space N10, Austin, on Jan. 14. The
SALOMON KID'S PATROL $60.00
1014 N. Lamar Blvd. 4477 S. Lamar Blvd. Wholeearthprovision.com
@WHOLEEARTHPROV
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
COMPILED BY ELLE BENT, AMANDA CUTSHALL & KATY MCAFEE
7
11
Underdog
Suvida Healthcare
COURTESY UNDERDOG
ELLE BENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Songbird’s Classic Fried Chicken Sandwich is topped with iceberg lettuce, homemade ranch, and bread and butter pickles in between milk bread. COURTESY SONGBIRD
open in late 2023. The north central clin- ic, located at 5118 Burnet Road, will open in mid-2023. www.modernanimal.com 9 Great Clips will open a new loca- tion in Tanglewood Village at 2110 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin, late this summer. It will replace Cost Cutters Hair Salon. The national hair salon franchise offers a range of hair services for men, women, children and seniors including cuts, trims and shampoos. In addition, the salon offers styling services for formal events and beard trims. www.greatclips.com RELOCATIONS 10 Companion Tattoo shop relocated from 3314 S. Congress Ave. to 4309 S. First St., Austin, in early March. Compan- ion Tattoo is an LGBTQIA+ friendly shop with artists that specialize in custom designs and come with over 10 years of industry experience. Companion Tattoo is owned by artists Dylan Mott and Chloe Dansfiell. www.companiontattoo.com 11 Suvida Healthcare will open its per- manent location at 500 W. William Can- non Drive, Austin, in mid-May. The health care center is currently in a temporary lo- cation at 2500 W. William Cannon Drive, Ste. 205, Austin. Suvida offers primary health care to Hispanic seniors. Apart from South Austin, Suvida has three addi- tional locations in Texas. 888-478-8432. www.suvidahealthcare.com ANNIVERSARIES 12 SoccerZone South Austin will celebrate its 15-year anniversary in April at 9501 Menchaca Road, Austin. Soc-
13
FEATURED IMPACT NOW OPEN Songbird , a fried chicken sandwich food truck, opened at Meanwhile Brewing Co., 3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin, on Feb. 3. The food truck serves a range of sandwiches, salads and snacks using sustainably sourced ingredients. Songbird is helmed by chef Joshua Van Den Berg, who previously ran Michelin-starred restaurant Aldea in New York and won the Food Network show “Chopped.” The food truck is open Thu. 4 p.m.-9 p.m., Fri. 2 p.m.-9 p.m., Sat. noon-9 p.m. and Sun. noon-8 p.m. cializes in dry cleaning, washing and fold- ing, and laundry. Orders are scheduled online, by phone or by text. Ian’s services neighborhoods in South Austin and Dripping Springs. Noble also owns Rick's Cleaners, a dry cleaning and laundry busi- ness with 14 brick and mortar locations. 512-452-0928. www.ianscleaners.com RENOVATIONS 14 Tanglewood Animal Hospital is renovating its location at 9125 Menchaca Road, Austin. The renovation includes a complete overhaul of the building to upgrade existing animal waiting areas and exam rooms, with an additional 500 square feet added upon completion. The work is expected to be completed by
512-308-3659 www.songbirdaustin.com
71
Poke Austin
COURTESY POKE AUSTIN
cerZone offers adult and youth soccer leagues, a Soccer Cubs child develop- ment class, La Academia youth soccer training, youth sports camps and more. The business hosts birthday parties and corporate events, and offers field rentals for lacrosse, ultimate Frisbee and football. The location in South Austin has a concession stand, restaurant and bar, and various vendors including a barber shop, karate classes, after-school programs, Ping-Pong club, person- al training and more. 512-280-2244. www.soccerzonetexas.com 13 Poke Austin celebrates its five-year anniversary in March at 5601 Brodie Lane, Ste. 1200A, Sunset Valley. The locally owned and family-operated restaurant specializes in build-your-own poke bowls. Patrons can customize the bowl size, proteins, toppings and dressings for their bowl. The restaurant is owned by locals Jennifer and Trent Schneiter. 737-717-3114. www.poke-austin.com Ian’s Cleaners will celebrate its five-year anniversary in May. Ian’s is a local pickup and delivery service for laundry that spe-
PROMONTORY POINT DR.
WINNEBAGO LN.
N
the end of the summer. 512-280-0878. www.vcahospitals.com/tanglewood CLOSINGS 15 Metcalf BBQ at Graceland , for- merly known as Do-Rite BBQ, closed permanently Feb. 26. It was located at 8600 Hwy. 290 W., Austin, at the intersection of Hwy. 290 and Circle Drive. www.metcalfbbqatx.com 16 Rivers and Reefs closed at the end of February. The pet care store, located at 2008 S. First St., Austin, had pre- viously operated for 34 years. A store representative was not able to provide any information behind the decision to close the store.
FREEZE AWAY Stubborn Fat Body contouring with the best technology at Austin’s trusted CoolSculpting® clinic.
BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION
http://wsc.to/ci
PEIJE FINCHER, LA, CLT
LINDSAY WEBER, PA-C
WWW.WESTGATESKIN.COM
INFO@WESTGATESKIN.COM
512-580-8345
7
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
Artist conceptual rendering
AUSTIN LIGHT RAIL: KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING!
Join us to learn what’s next for light rail in Austin
THURSDAY, APRIL 6 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. JOIN REMOTE VIA ZOOM PROJECTCONNECT.COM/GET-INVOLVED
Please join us for our next virtual community meeting on April 6 as we move forward with Austin’s light rail. Learn about updates on the light rail system from the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP), what’s next for Project Connect and share your feedback. Everyone is welcome to attend. We hope to see you there! Can’t make it? Your feedback is still needed!
The power of plants
POWER LINE CLEARANCE 25’ 40’ 60’
View the materials online and provide feedback at
Less than 25’ mature height
25’-40’ mature height
More than 40’ mature height
ProjectConnect.com/Get-Involved starting on March 21 through May 2.
For language translations or accommodations, call 512-904-0180. Información de la reunión está disponible en español.
Don’t let trees interfere with your electric service. Follow PEC’s planting guidelines to protect your power — and your plants!
Visit pec.coop/trees for more.
Pedernales Electric Cooperative
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
COMPILED BY ELLE BENT
1
5
6
FITZHUGH RD.
BROKEN LANCE DR.
290
185
290
5
4
1
290
3
2
DRIFTING WIND RUN
Dutch Bros Coffee
The Palm Social Collection
ELLE BENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
COURTESY DUTCH BROS COFFEE
12
1826
164
DRIPPING SPRINGS
5 Dutch Bros Coffee filed permits to potentially open a location near Ledge- stone at 12400 Hwy. 290, Dripping Springs. Dutch Bros is a drive-thru coffee chain based in Oregon. The menu in- cludes specialty coffees, teas, smoothies, energy drinks and soda. The location is in the planning phase and could open in 2024. www.dutchbros.com 6 Havenwood Nature School opened a second location at 145 Broken Lance Dr., Dripping Springs on March 20. Haven- wood is a nature-based preschool that opened in August 2020 at 1000 Hays Country Acres Road, Dripping Springs. The preschool serves children from 6 weeks to 6 years old. Havenwood integrates environmental education in all areas of curriculum. 512-894-9855. www.havenwoodnatureschool.com
seating for up to eight team members. The building features meeting rooms and amenities such as complimentary coffee, Wi-Fi, printers, mail service and free parking. 512-717-0058. www.fuseworkspace.com COMING SOON 4 Locals Michael and Christie Sanders will open HteaO at 12680 W. Hwy. 290, Ste. 500, Dripping Springs, in April. HteaO is a Texas-based franchise that specializes in imported iced teas. The Dripping Springs location will include a double drive-thru as well as a dining room. Inside, guests can self-serve from over 25 flavors of iced tea and choose from a variety of fresh fruit to include in their drink. The shop also offers coffee and snacks. www.hteao.com
150
162
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
DRIPPING SPRINGS NOW OPEN
2 Mr. Gatti’s Pizza opened Feb. 27 at 136 Drifting Wind Run, Dripping Springs. Founded by James Eure in 1964, Mr. Gatti’s is a Texas-based chain with over 70 locations. The restaurant offers carryout and delivery options. The menu includes eight specialty pizzas, a build- your-own option, sides and desserts. 512-583-8100. www.mrgattispizza.com 3 Fuse Workspace opened at 13341 W. Hwy. 290, Bldg. 2, Austin, on Feb. 3. The workspace is located next to Belterra, offering 94 private offices with
1 The Palm Social Collection opened its storefront at 400 Hwy. 290, Ste. B-104, Dripping Springs, on March 3 after previously only operating on- line. The women’s boutique is owned by Dripping Springs resident Jordyn Ketchum. Shoppers can still order online for in-store pickup or delivery. www.thepalmsocialcollection.com
A worry-free Spring Break with 24/7 Virtual Care Allergies, cold & flu, rashes, sunburn, swimmer’s ear, UTIs, nausea, cough & sore throat, minor injuries, STIs, and more
04/30/2023
NormanMD.com
9
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
SERVING THE AUSTIN / KYLE COMMUNITY SINCE 1979 Best of North HaysCounty
AFTER CATARACT SURGERY W/PREMIUM IOL IMPLANT
BEFORE CATARACT SURGERY
NEW KYLE LOCATION NOW OPEN
CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT.
SPECIALIZING IN : Cataract Surgery, LASIK, Comprehensive Eye Exams, Corneal Disease, Diabetic Eye Care.
(512) 443-9715 | WWW.HOWERTONEYE.COM
Kyle Office 4282 FM 1626, Ste 200 Kyle, TX 78640
Southwest Austin Office 5625 Eiger Rd., Ste 100 Austin, TX 78735
South Central Austin Office 2610 S. IH 35 Austin, TX 78704
There’s a lot happening at Westgate! We’re expanding our bouldering terrain 2,500 sq. ft. and building a new enclosed youth space. We’re also kicking off Summer Camp - action-packed weeks of climbing, games, crafts, and more – signup is open now! EXPANDED TERRAIN + SUMME� CAMPS AustinBoulderingProject.com TWO LOCATIONS : Westgate (next to Central Market) & East Austin (Springdale Rd.)
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TO DO LIST
April events
COMPILED BY DARCY SPRAGUE AND EDMOND ORTIZ
Cap10K, participants will race down Congress Avenue, past the Capitol and throughout downtown Austin. The event is one of the largest 10K races in Texas. There will also be a virtual race. 8 a.m. (race start). $55 (youth), $65 (adults). 305 S. Congress Ave., Austin. www.cap10k.com 21 THROUGH 23 FEEL THE FEST The Austin Reggae Fest will bring three days of reggae, world and dub music to Auditorium Shores with headliners including The Skatalites, Jesse Royal and Inner Circle. The event bene ts the Central Texas Food Bank. Time varies. $50 (three-day wristband),
celebrate spring. The event includes a hayride, a petting zoo and games. 2-6 p.m. $5. Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center, 1042 Event Center Drive, Dripping Springs. 512-894-2390. www.drippingspringsranchpark.com 09 HEAR AN INDIE BAND The musical duo Deer Fellow will play at Texas Keeper Cider. Matt Salois is a guitarist and vocalist, and Alyssa Kelly plays violin and piano and sings. Texas Keeper Cider’s events are kid and dog friendly. It o ers ciders, wines and meads as well as a seasonal menu of snacks. 3-5 p.m. Free. 12521 Twin Creeks Road, Manchaca. 512-910-3409. GET READY FOR RACING The MotoGP Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas will bring some of the fastest bikes in the world to Austin. The race is the nal race of the year for the league. April 14 will kick o with practice sessions, followed by qualifying rounds April 15 and the race April 16. Times vary. Prices vary. Circuit www.texaskeeper.com 14 THROUGH 16 of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin. 512-301-6600. www.circuitoftheamericas.com 16 RUN FOR IT During the 46th Statesman
APRIL 12 23
LAUGH OUT LOUD PARAMOUNT THEATRE
$370 (VIP tickets). Auditorium Shores, 900 W. Riverside Drive. www.austinreggaefest.com 29 CELEBRATE EEYORE’S BIRTHDAY This daylong fundraising festival
APRIL 08 HUNT FOR EGGS The Dripping Springs Eggstravaganza & Family Hayride will o er family-friendly activities to vary. $150-$275 for passes; costs for individual show tickets vary. Locations vary. www.austintheatre.org Moontower Just for Laughs will bring dozens of comedians to Austin for 11 days of shows. Headliners include Seth Meyers, Howie Mandel, Jenny Slate and Samantha Bee. Times
Fiesta takes place in San Antonio annually.
WORTH THE TRIP Fiesta San Antonio , the local annual springtime celebration o ers more than 100 events citywide featuring food and entertainment, including parades, festivals and formal galas will take place from April 20 30. Proceeds from each event bene t participating Fiesta Commission member organizations and numerous local community nonpro ts and causes. Times, prices and locations vary. www. estasanantonio.org
operated by the Friends of the Forest Foundation bene ts local nonpro ts. Festival goers can listen to live music and shop at local vendors. All proceeds will be donated to various non-pro ts. This is the 58th celebration. Bicycling or public transit is encouraged due to a lack of parking at Pease District Park. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 1100 Kingsbury St., Austin. 512-766-4424. www.eeyores.org
Find more or submit Southwest Austin and Dripping Springs 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.
TIRED OF HIGH ELECTRIC BILLS? WE NOW DO ROOFING, SOLAR, BATTERIES, & GENERATORS
(512) 995-ROOF MYDIVIDEDSKY.COM
March 4 - Sept. 10 wildflower.org/ seeing-the-invisible
An Augmented Reality Contemporary Art Exhibition
11
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
Does Someone in Your Home Rely on Life-Support Equipment? Register now for extra help before a power outage.
Call 512-494-9400 or visit coautilities.com/go/mvrapp
Scan Now to Get Started
© 2023 Austin Energy
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES $6.4 million Old Fitzhugh Road project seeks to improve safety
COMPILED BY ELLE BENT & TAYLOR CRIPE
ONGOING PROJECTS
IMPROVEMENTS TIMELINE
BEE CAVES RD.
An improvement project on Old Fitzhugh Road is moving forward, though final funding is pending. 2017 Input collected from stakeholders 2018 Dripping Springs City Council approves plan 2021 Engineering plans begin 2020 Engineering firm search and contracting 2019 Requests for budgets and grants begin
MOPAC
360
A yearslong plan to improve Old Fitzhugh Road—located in the historic part of Dripping Springs connecting Mercer Street and Ranch Road 12—is moving forward with community input and engineering plans, though the project still lacks funding. The Old Fitzhugh Road project will consist of roadway improvements to the street, sidewalks, trails and parking. It will also address drainage issues along the road while main- taining the historic character of Old Fitzhugh Road, according to Keenan Smith, project manager for the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone. The concept plan for the project was approved by Dripping Springs City Council on Aug. 21, 2018. Engi- neering plans are still in development and are estimated to be completed in summer, according to Smith. Old Fitzhugh Road will remain a two-lane road. The improvements
would include an 8-foot-wide walking trail on the west side, curbs to direct water flow into drainage areas on the east side, and on-street parking to improve access and safety. Construction is estimated to cost $6.4 million. The project has not yet been fully funded, and prospective funding would be provided by TIRZ, the Hays County Parks and Open Space Bond Pledge, and the Texas Department of Transportation, Smith said. Engineering plans are funded by the TIRZ at $602,000, and the trail portions of the project are funded by the Hays County Parks and Open Space Bond Pledge at $1.3 million. The construction of the project is estimated to begin in 2024, depen- dent on funding. A public meeting will be held March 29 at City Hall at 511 Mercer St., Dripping Springs, to present information on the project.
BARTON SKYWAY
N
Barton Skyway ramp widening The Barton Skyway Ramp Relief project broke ground Feb. 3. Intend- ed to alleviate congestion on local roadways, the project will widen the pavement on the auxiliary lane and merge the entrance ramps for Bee Caves Road and Barton Skyway on southbound MoPac. Weekslong ramp closures are expected on southbound MoPac during construction along with main lane closures during off-peak travel hours from 8 p.m.-5 a.m. Timeline: February 2023-24 Cost: $10 million
2022 Stakeholder outreach
2023 Public outreach and engagement 2024 Project construction estimated to begin
Funding source: Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority
TIMBERLINE RD.
OLD FITZHUGH RD.
12
ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF MARCH 9. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT SWANEWS@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.
MERCER ST.
290
SOURCE: DRIPPING SPRINGS/COMMUNITY IMPACT N
Current Openings Available
Schedule online today or call us at 512-578-8070
THERAPY AND EDUCATION
Anxious? Overwhelmed? Feeling stuck?
Get started with a therapist today. Take the first step.
Our Location
Visit our new offices in East Oak Hill at 4425 Mopac Expy.
360
1
Open by appointment only.
2nd & 3rd Grade Open House - April 18, 2023 To RSVP, please email admissions@sgs-austin.org www.sgs-austin.org | 2500 Wimberly Lane | Austin, TX 78735
290
Sunset Valley
austinmindfulness.org
13
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
TRANSPORTATION Capital Metro pushes back new MetroRapid routes to 2025
RAPID ROUTE SLOWDOWN Capital Metro is delaying the
290
opening of two new routes to 2025, as electric bus batteries will not last as long as expected and are back ordered.
Mueller neighborhood
Travis County Exposition Center
BY KATY MCAFEE
and consulting with national experts, CapMetro realized to accommodate depot-only charging, it would need to double the original 40 buses planned for the route, Watkins said. She said each electric bus costs roughly $1 million. To cut costs, CapMetro decided to install overhead charging stations at the end of each route that will top buses o throughout the day. How- ever, that plan requires CapMetro to acquire more land at Pleasant Valley and the Travis County Expo Center. The pivot will also require CapMetro to build its Park & Rides—parking lots where travelers can park their cars and hop on a CapMetro bus—sooner than anticipated. Even without the construction hurdles, the MetroRapid would still have been delayed until the end of 2023 due to supply chain issues with electric buses, Watkins said.
Expo MetroRapid Pleasant Valley MetroRapid
Capital Metro delayed the opening of its MetroRapid lines—high-fre- quency transit lines originally slated to open this summer—until 2025, the transportation organization con- rmed in late February. CapMetro’s two transit lines, Pleasant Valley and Expo Center, are among the rst services to be realized in Project Connect—a multibillion-dollar plan to rethink and expand Austin’s transportation infrastructure passed by voters in November 2020. CapMetro CEO Dottie Watkins said the delay is due to a variety of factors, including challenges using all-electric buses, shipping delays and infrastructure changes. Watkins said the original assump- tion was buses would be swapped out with fully charged buses at a depot. However, after scheduling routes
J
Republic Square
183
290
35
• CapMetro must buy land for charging stations and Park&Rides at the end of lines • CapMetro will recon gure roadways along the transit line • Electric buses are back ordered REASONS FOR DELAYS
Goodnight Ranch
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
SOURCE: CAPITAL METRO COMMUNITY IMPACT
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Austin plans for neighborhood growth alongside rail, bus lines
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN STATION AREAS Austin and Capital Metro are planning for incoming residential and commercial development in the neighborhoods around future Project Connect bus and rail stations.
290
Oak Hill extension
S. CONGRESS AVE.
BY BEN THOMPSON
Austin leaders are working to set rules for devel- opment around Project Connect routes to ensure that it bene ts both current and future community members. City Council on March 9 approved an initial equitable transit-oriented development, or ETOD, framework to address that topic as interest in build- ing up areas around the proposed transit network grows. The Capital Metro guidelines were created to help steer new residential and commercial develop- ment in transit-connected pockets of the city. That framework includes information on stations across the Project Connect system, high-level ETOD objectives, a “policy toolkit” detailing strategies to meet those goals, and an action plan for next steps. The city de nes ETOD as guidelines for commu- nity growth in areas around Project Connect stations that can support Austinites of varying backgrounds and incomes—especially those harmed by inequita- ble land use and transportation policy decisions. Following the March vote, reviews of the city’s comprehensive plan and land-use regulations cov- ering development around transit centers will begin with ongoing community engagement.
35
Proposed Additions
Bus stop
Menchaca to Burnet
Rail station MetroRapid bus lines Light rail line SOURCES: CAPITAL METRO, CITY OF AUSTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
MENCHACA RD.
MOPAC
Orange Line
N
Council passed the new ETOD plan with direction to prioritize Project Connect rail stations over bus stops and to explore options for the city to set aside some tax collections for local improvements around station areas as land values in those neighborhoods are likely to rise. Council’s vote jump-started detailed planning around two Project Connect hubs—the North Lamar and South Congress transit centers—and several bus and rail stops in Northeast Austin around the proposed Green Line extension. Going forward, ETOD planning will also focus on Project Connect’s MetroRapid bus routes in
Southwest Austin and the Orange Line light rail extending down Congress Avenue. Mayor Pro Tem Paige Ellis, who represents South Austin’s District 8, also amended the ETOD frame- work to prioritize planning and funding support for MetroRapid’s Oak Hill route. “We in Southwest Austin have, I think, four bus routes. Four—and two of them overlap, and the one near me runs every 35 minutes,” Ellis said March 7. “If we’re going to get serious about people being able to participate in the mode shift goal, we can’t forget about some of the [bus routes] that are way farther behind.”
FREE Checking And Unlimited Cash Back A+FCU Members Enjoy
Membership required. Insured by NCUA. All checking accounts screened through ChexSystems. Conditions and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. Scan the QR code or visit aplusfcu.org/rewards to get started.
aplusfcu.org
15
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
IS YOUR CHILD AT THE RIGHT HIGH SCHOOL?
Our academic courses are grounded in the classics and expose students to the great ideas of humankind, the events that shaped civilizations, the beauty of mathematics, the power of the arts, and the phenomena of the scientific world. Our teachers know and respect each student’s strengths, abilities, and temperament. We are a close-knit community and a healthy, supportive, safe school environment. We offer one-on-one college counseling and our graduates are distinguished by their curiosity, intellectual flexibility, and advanced capacity for synthesizing ideas. Discover the Waldorf Difference High School Open House Saturday, April 1, 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. Now Scheduling High School Experience Mornings and Private Tours
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 23�24 SCHOOL YEAR
enroll@austinwaldorf.org www.austinwaldorf.org (512) 288-5942
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
EDUCATION BRIEFS
News from Austin & Dripping Springs ISDs
HIGHLIGHTS AUSTIN ISD Damage from Winter Storm Mara has cost Austin ISD an estimated $845,446, officials said at a Feb. 23 board meeting. The majority of the AISD campuses had tree debris, which caused obstruction to roadways, parking lots and playgrounds. It also knocked out power to 23 campuses and facilities. The board of trustees approved emergency purchases related to the damage at the meeting. The authorization for the emergency purchases will last for six months and can be made using general funds, or disaster relief funds if those become available. DRIPPING SPRINGS AND AUSTIN ISDs Both Dripping Springs and Austin ISD staff will be paid for days missed due to Winter Storm Mara. The DSISD board of trustees adopted the resolution Feb. 27 during a regular board meeting, which will allow staff to be compensated for the days missed due to the districtwide closure that lasted from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3. Austin ISD trustees approved a similar motion Feb. 23. Austin ISD Will meet April 6 and 27 at 6 p.m. 4000 S. I-35, Austin www.austinisd.org Dripping Springs ISD Will meet April 17 at 6:30 p.m. and April 24 at 6 p.m. 510 W. Mercer St., Dripping Springs www.dsisdtx.us MEETINGS WE COVER NUMBER TO KNOW Department of Education to offer a program of support services— Austin Community College Ensuring Student Success—for 1,000 students who stopped their education in 2020 due to the pandemic. $770,000 Austin Community College received more than $770,000 from the
Search firm to use public feedback to find superintendent
THE SEARCH IS ON Austin ISD began the search process for a new superintendent in early 2023, months after Stephanie Elizalde resigned.
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
AUSTIN ISD The search firm hired by Austin ISD to find its next superin- tendent wrapped up a series of town halls in March. GR Recruiting and the district offered the town halls to community members, who discussed what they want to see in a superintendent. At a March 7 town hall, attendees brought up challenges such as teacher support and special education issues. “The problem is that we do not have the support,” said Sandra Flores, a teacher at Webb Middle School. “It’s across the board, really, we just do not have enough teachers, security guards and counselors.” Some of the qualities sought in a new superintendent mentioned by the community included being present, doing whatever it takes to be
Community input due March 15 March 22 March 25 April 20 May 25 GR Recruiting builds profile
July 1
Trustees finalize profile
Candidate applications due
Lone finalist named
New superintendent hired
SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
successful, equity, resilience, being a role model and someone who is solution-oriented. Following the town halls, GR Recruiting built a profile for the ideal AISD superintendent and shared it with the board of trustees. The previous superintendent, Stephanie Elizalde, left for Dallas ISD in June 2022. Anthony Mays served as interim superintendent until December, when he left the district.
Matias Segura was named interim superintendent in January; however, the board decided he would not be allowed to apply for the permanent position. “When they advertised for an interim, they wanted someone who would come in and not be considered as a candidate because that could be a deterrent to other potential candidates,” said Gloria Davis, lead associate with GR Recruiting.
Majority of Texas teachers looking for career change, poll shows
education nonprofit Raise Your Hand Texas has spo- ken to through listening circles—697 teachers in 79 school districts—indicate a number of factors have led to the retention short- age. Sufficient staffing at schools was one of the main contributors as teachers want to see more support staff, counselors, nurses, behavior special- ists and special education professionals. Salaries are another factor contributing to the problem, according to RYHT.
TEACHER TURNOVER
A survey by the Charles Butt Foundation polled 1,291 Texas public school teachers in 2022.
BY GRANT CRAWFORD
those teachers said they have taken steps to leave the profession, such as updating their resumes or applying for a job outside of teaching. Combined with data showing more than half of all new teach- ers are leaving after five years, it has left advocacy groups and educators concerned for the future in public education. Teachers whom
TEXAS A statewide survey by the Charles Butt Foundation found 77% of Texas teachers have seri- ously considered leaving their job in the last year. This figure was pre- sented in front of a panel of Leander ISD and Round Rock ISD teachers at the 2023 South by Southwest EDU Conference on March 7. Additionally, 93% of
93% of whom have taken steps 77% of teachers have seriously considered leaving in the last year.
to leave the profession.
SOURCE: THE CHARLES BUTT FOUNDATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Hearing her laugh is everything
Find the perfect fit with hearing aids customized to your needs & lifestyle.
ARC Audiology near you at ARC South 1st Specialty & Pediatrics
ARChearing.com
17
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
CITY & COUNTY
News from Austin, Dripping Springs, Hays & Travis County
Austin leaders press TxDOT on I 35 expansion AUSTIN City and county o cials in February each sent formal letters to the Texas Department of Transportation opposing aspects of the state agency’s proposed I-35 expansion through Austin. The actions came as TxDOT continues work on its environmental impact statement for the Capital Express Central initiative, the 8-mile redesign of I-35 between Hwy. 71 and Hwy. 290. The state- ment is a federally mandated part of the project’s development. TxDOT’s plan is expected to grow I-35 and its “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. We’ve got to get it right,” Vela said. Vela and other council members have expressed strong support for a “cap and stitch” plan. Caps are decks that would cover parts of the highway and could hold parks or other structures. Stitches are paths over the road to connect both sides. The city would likely have to pay for the plan. Austin council members approved their resolu- tion in a 10-1 vote, with Mayor Kirk Watson opposed to the nal document. On council’s message board, Watson raised issue with pieces of the resolution, such as the cost of a full cap and stitch program, estimated at $800 million. BY KATY MCAFEE & BEN THOMPSON
CAPITAL EXPRESS CENTRAL Both Travis County and Austin leaders in February sent letters opposing parts of the Texas Department of Transportation’s plan to expand I-35.
360
MOPAC
290
183
35
PROJECT REQUESTS • more east-west connections • bury more roadway • minimize displacements • reroute truck tra c • lower frontage road speed limits
frontage roads to as many as 22 lanes in Austin, and current plans call for the demolition of more than 100 existing residences and businesses. Austin and Travis County leaders’ requests were accompanied by widespread opposition to Capital Express Central by residents, engineers and activists speaking at the February council and commissioners court sessions. Sponsored by Council Member Chito Vela—whose District 4 is divided by I-35—City Council’s item calls on TxDOT to adjust its highway plan by adding more east-west connections and burying more of the roadway, minimizing displacements, reducing negative environmental e ects, rerouting truck tra c, and lowering frontage road speed limits.
290
“I question the feasibility of demanding TxDOT design the project as dictated by the resolution given that we have yet to identify a funding source for the caps alone,” Watson wrote. The following week, county commissioners said they generally support TxDOT’s latest designs and believe there is a need to grow I-35 through Austin. However, they shared concerns about the plan’s potential e ects on the historic Palm School complex on West Cesar Chavez Street, which the county may seek to redevelop. Commissioners also requested a focus on limiting displacements and providing more safe access for
35
N
SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
pedestrians and cyclists. “The commissioners court is con dent that TxDOT and the region working together can realize signi cant mobility and access improvements while also improving the community fabric along the I-35 corridor,” commissioners wrote.
T reat Yourself To Stunning 1 & 2 Bedrooms For The 62+ Active Adult
Brush Grinding Erosion Control Roll-Off and Hauling Compost, Soil and Mulch Get a quote today!
Pet Friendly
Resort-Style Amenities
Chef Inspired Kitchens
Maintenance-Free Living
Weekly Social Calendar
(737) 234-8581 12100 Archeleta Blvd Austin, TX 78739 ArborviewLife.com
737-236-7067 | TexasDisposal.com
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
QUOTE OF NOTE
Hays County commissioners approve 10% pay increase HAYS COUNTY Nearly 500 Hays County employees saw a 10% pay increase in February after the Commissioners Court approved the raises on Jan. 31. The employees receiving the County budget o ce. Alex Villalobos, Hays County chief of sta , emphasized the impor- tance of staying competitive in the regional market for many reasons. “Not only, No. 1, is it good for recruiting new talent and new positions into the county, but it’s BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN also important for retention. And retention is important for us to maintain institutional knowledge within the Hays County organization so we can continue to move forward with all of the services and needs that the county needs,” Villalobos said.
Austin City Council Meets April 11 and 18 at 9 a.m., and April 13 and 20 at 10 a.m. 301 W. Second St., Austin www.austintexas.gov/austin-city- council Travis County Commissioners Court Meets April 4, 18 and 25 at 9 a.m. and April 6 and 20 at 1:30 p.m. 700 Lavaca St., Austin www.traviscountytx.gov/ commissioners-court Dripping Springs City Council Meets April 4 and 18 at 6 p.m. 511 Mercer St., Dripping Springs www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/ city-council MEETINGS WE COVER “THERE ARE MANY IMPORTANT ISSUES, AND I RECOGNIZE AND SUPPORT THE COUNCIL’S SENSE OF URGENCY IN MEETING OUR COMMUNITY’S EXPECTATIONS FOR QUALITY SERVICE.” INTERIM AUSTIN CITY MANAGER JESÚS GARZA ON STAFFING CHANGES AT CITY HALL HIGHLIGHTS DRIPPING SPRINGS The city’s May 6 election was canceled with no incumbents challenged. Council members Taline Manassian, Geo rey Tahuahua and Sherrie Parks will be re-elected. AUSTIN City Council voted Feb. 23 for $1.5 million in settlements stemming from three lawsuits brought by protesters injured by Austin police o cers in the May 2020 protests downtown. The city has now agreed to pay out $18.88 million in related settlements.
increase are those not bound by a collective bargaining agreement and making less than $100,000. Precinct 3 Commissioner Lon Shell was the single dissenting vote, citing a need to reach consensus on raises with all department heads. A collective bargaining agreement is a contract that requires negotia- tions between representatives of a union and their employer. The pay increase will cost the county $1,482,978.98 for scal year 2022-23, according to the Hays
465 employees are expected to bene t from the salary increase. The salary increase will cost the county $1.48 million for scal year 2022-23. MAG draft reports found Hays County is 11.05% below the average market at- range minimum.
RAISES FOR COUNTY EMPLOYEES The 10% salary increase for nearly 500 county employees comes as a result of ndings from a study conducted by Management Advisory Group Inc.
The study is not yet nalized but will come back before the court with a complete pay scale system presentation.
SOURCES: HAYS COUNTY, MANAGEMENT ADVISORY GROUP INC. COMMUNITY IMPACT
City slows closure of downtown Salvation Army homeless shelter
35
N
BY KATY MCAFEE
residents following the Feb. 17 announcement that its downtown shelter would close in March. However, Board Mem- ber Rudy Garza said The Salvation Army reached out to the city in January 2020 and again to former City Manager Spencer Cronk in May 2021 to seek city support, but to no avail. “We didn’t just wake up one morning and say, ‘Let’s close down the shelter.’ I
AUSTIN The Salvation Army’s downtown shelter open will remain open for up to 30 days while alterna- tive housing arrangements are made for the remaining residents, city o cials announced March 10. The extension will cost up to $100,000 and be funded by the city. The Salvation Army has received criticism from city o cials, activists and
The Salvation Army will close its downtown shelter in April.
mean, we tried for three years to have the city help us,” Garza said. “We are really grateful for the sup- port that we’re getting from
Mayor [Kirk] Watson and Jesús Garza. I feel like had they been in place several years ago, maybe we’d have a di erent outcome today.”
19
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION • MARCH 2023
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 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20-21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40Powered by FlippingBook