Bastrop - Cedar Creek Edition | March 2026

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Bastrop Cedar Creek Edition VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1 MARCH 31APRIL 29, 2026

2026 Voter Guide

Bastrop retail boom expands Hwy. 71 corridor

INSIDE

Bastrop West development

Sendero development

Burleson Crossing East development

Also in this issue

Nearly 500 acres of mixed-use projects are underway in Bastrop, which ocials say highlight a push to blend housing, wellness, shopping and business spaces amid a growing population. (Matthew Brooks/Community Impact)

Impacts Page 7 Freebirds to bring build-your-own burritos to Bastrop

Farmers market guide

Page 14

Browse vendor listings and pick a few to explore

Daniel and Revelation Study coming to the Bastrop Convention Center 1408 Chestnut St. Bastrop, TX 78602 May 11-16 7:00 PM Nightly Registration not required Health Check Nightly Evangelist J.P. O’Connor

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5 things to know: A plain-language guide to Bastrop’s proposed development code If you’ve received a mailed notice from the City of Bastrop with strong language about property rights,

business owners to talk with Development Services early, especially before starting a business. Doing so can help avoid costly mistakes and clarify what’s allowed under the proposed code before time and money are invested. PUBLIC INPUT IS ALSO PART OF THE PROCESS. “A lot of community engagement is going into what we’re doing with the city as a whole,” Develop- ment Director and Building Ocial James Cowey said. e city urges residents to attend the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing scheduled for February 26, followed by City Council readings on March 24 and April 14, to make their voices heard. e meetings will be held at City Council Chambers in City Hall at 1311 Chestnut St., Bastrop.

neighborhoods, commercial areas and mixed-use areas, with simple charts showing what’s allowed and what’s not. For most residents, this means the rules should be easier to look up and easier to understand. 3. DIFFERENT RULES WILL APPLY IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF BASTROP One of the biggest takeaways from using the B3 code was that one set of rules doesn’t work equally well everywhere. Under the proposed code, neighborhoods are primarily focused on protecting single-family character; downtown keeps special standards that support walkability and historic buildings; and ood-prone areas are covered by a new overlay designed to reduce risk and protect natural oodplain functions. e idea is simple: what makes sense downtown doesn’t always make sense in a quiet neighborhood or in a park. 4. THE PROCESS SHOULD BE CLEARER IF SOMEONE WANTS TO BUILD OR OPEN A BUSINESS In addition to reorganizing zoning districts, the proposed code updates how development decisions are made. e review process is laid out in clearer steps, with fewer informal exceptions. New tools allow limited administrative adjustments and conditional use permits for case-by-case decisions. City materials say this structure reduces surprises and helps residents, applicants and sta understand who makes decisions and when. 5. WHAT PROPERTY OWNERS SHOULD KNOW, GOING FORWARD City ocials encourage residents, builders and

you’re not alone; and you’re probably wondering what it actually means for you. In short, the city is proposing a new rulebook for how land can be used and developed. It’s a big update, but it’s meant to make things clearer, not more confusing. Below is a plain-language breakdown of what residents and property owners need to know. 1. THIS DOES NOT MEAN YOU’RE LOSING YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS e legal notice sent to property owners is required by state law anytime zoning rules are updated. e wording can sound alarming, but city documents emphasize that this does not mean people are suddenly losing the right to live in their homes or operate existing businesses. What’s being proposed is a rewrite of the rules, not a sweep that takes away existing uses. Homes stay homes. Existing businesses are expected to remain allowed. e city repeatedly describes this as a “crosswalk, not a reset,” meaning properties are translated into equivalent new zoning categories rather than being rezoned from scratch. 2. THE CITY IS CHANGING HOW ZONING RULES ARE ORGANIZED Right now, Bastrop uses a system called the B3 code. e B3 code focuses heavily on how buildings look, including where doors go, how buildings meet the street and where parking sits. e proposed Bastrop Development Code switches to a more traditional Texas-style zoning system. Instead of complex design rules everywhere, the city would use clear zoning categories, such as single-family

Scan to keep reading and to view maps.

Contact Development Services Department, or visit their website to learn more today.

www.cityofbastrop.org/page/plan.home

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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About Community Impact

Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 75+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio metros.

Market leaders & metro team

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

Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com

Amanda Cutshall Editor acutshall@ communityimpact.com

Travis Baker Austin Market President tbaker@ communityimpact.com

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Impacts

BUTTONWOOD ST.

9 10

1441

FISHERMAN'S PARK

304

150

WALNUTST.

AUSTINST.

EMILE ST.

205

304

MAP NOT TO SCALE

111

111 3 A Place to Call Home RV Park The park has a variety of features and amenities, such as 50- to 80-foot sites, and 30-, 50- and 110-amp hookups. • Opened Jan. 1 • 333 B J Mayes Road, Bastrop • www.aplacetocallhomervpark.com

5 Chuy’s The Austin-founded restaurant is bringing its rst Tex- Mex spot to Bastrop, with “Texas-sized plates that won’t break the bank,” such as burritos, enchiladas and fajitas. • Opening May 18 • Sendero, 909 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop • www.chuys.com 6 Colorado RV Cabin Park The project, approximately 1.7 miles east of McKinney Roughs Nature Park, was approved during a March 9 Bastrop County Commissioners Court meeting. It will oer 200 RV stands, 40 cabins and more once complete. • Opening TBD • 172 Colorado Circle, Cedar Creek • No website as of press time 7 PetSmart The American pet retail chain sells food, supplies and accessories. It also oers services such as grooming and training, with many locations providing veterinary care and boarding.

Bastrop

Now open

1 Sage Well Cafe + Herb House Formerly known as Radiant Juice + Smoothie Bar, new owners Char Rebell and Stephanie Berry completed a rebrand in mid-March to update the wellness cafe’s name, visual identity and in-store experience—including more health-conscious options. • Opened March 18 • 702 Main St., Ste. 103, Bastrop • Facebook: Sage Well Cafe + Herb House 2 Co ee Dog Roastery and Co eehouse After months of behind-the-scenes changes, new owner Chandler Wible oers a refreshed menu, including items from Scoops Chicken Salad Market, featuring six chicken salad avors, macaroni salad and fresh-cut fruit salad. • Reopened March 5

Coming soon

4 Aspen Dental The national dental practice oers services including preventative and basic dental care, cavity and tooth repair, and gum disease treatment. The team is currently hiring for positions such as assistant dental oce manager, patient coordinator and dental hygienist. • Opening in late April • Burleson Crossing East, 661 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop • www.aspendental.com

• 49 Loop 150 W., Bastrop • www.coffeedoginc.com

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• Opening April 18 • Burleson Crossing East, 655 Hwy. 71 W., Ste. 111, Bastrop • www.petsmart.com

Coming soon

Now open

8 Happy Health & Wellness Mireya Adame, board-certied family nurse practitioner, is leading the rst Bastrop clinic location. Happy Health & Wellness provides services such as primary care, IV therapy, weight-loss support, hormone replacement and more. • Opened March 13 • 815 Hwy. 71 W., Ste. 1130, Bastrop • www.proactivehappyhealth.com/bastrop

In the news

10 Freebirds World Burrito The Tex-Mex fast-casual eatery oers menu items such as customizable burritos, tacos, bowls, nachos, salads and more. • Opening TBD • Burleson Crossing East, Bastrop • www.freebirds.com

9 First Watch The eatery oers breakfast, brunch and lunch menu items such as breakfast bowls, lemon-ricotta pancakes and the popular Chickichanga—the restaurant’s take on a chimichanga. • Opened March 16 • Burleson Crossing East, 661 Hwy. 71 W., Ste. 101, Bastrop • www.¥irstwatch.com

Capital Area Rural Transportation System Weekday commuter routes, serving Bastrop, Smithville, Georgetown and Round Rock to downtown Austin, began March 2. The launch coincided with a ribbon- cutting ceremony for the remodeled Smithville station. • 300 Northeast Loop 230, Smithville • www.ridecarts.com

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Government

BY JOEL VALLEY

Bastrop Commissioners tap consultant for data center analysis Bastrop County is hiring Philadelphia-based PFM Group Consulting to analyze budget and tax policies related to data center developments. What’s happening? During a March 9 meeting, the Bastrop County Commissioners approved a professional services agreement with PFM Group Consulting at a not to exceed value of $100,000 for the nancial analysis and $9,000 for travel and reimbursable expenses, according to county documents. The county is interested in the long-term impact to the county’s tax base related to data center devel- opments, including whether a proposed structure is in the county’s best interest over a 10-year, or other, period of time, according to the professional services agreement.

Bastrop County plans $140.5M complex Bastrop County ocials unveiled plans for a $140.5 million judicial complex designed to expand courtroom capacity and modern- ize justice system infrastructure to keep up with a growing population. The details The Bastrop County Judicial Complex project is outlined in the county’s Capital Improvement Plan for scal years 2026-31, which was adopted Jan. 29. A relocation of oces for the district court, district attorney and district clerk to a new judicial complex would provide the remaining currently used oces more room to expand, according to the CIP. The judicial complex will be built on county-owned land beginning in scal year 2028-29.

Responsibilities outlined for PFM Group Consulting Collect relevant data and information Benchmark similar data center developments,

incentives and associated revenue Identify tax incentive best practices Model revenue and tax rate impacts for the county and other taxpayers Communicate written ndings and recommendations

SOURCE: BASTROP COUNTY, PFM GROUP CONSULTING COMMUNITY IMPACT

Something to note A $1.4 billion data center campus in Cedar Creek is currently in the works. The project—known as DFW33220N and being developed by Virginia-based data center provider EdgeConneX—will take between ve to eight years to complete and span 2.8 million square feet. The outlook As of press time, a completion date for the study had not been announced.

Ocials seek $375K for stray dog and cat sterilizations Bastrop County will be among the rst coun- ties to test a spay and neuter program launched by the state. What we know pilot program is to protect human health by sterilizing pets that may carry infectious diseases, according to ocials. Looking ahead

Bastrop County is expanding its animal services facility to accommodate increased strays.

$300 per dog for spay and neuter

Bastrop County Assistant Auditor Nicole Moore told commissioners sta is seeking $375,000 over the course of the two scal years. The focus of the Texas Spay and Neuter

May 13 is the last day to apply for the pilot pro- gram, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services documents. If approved, ocials plan to submit monthly for the reimbursement.

$200 per cat for spay and neuter

10 cats and 10 dogs per week

SOURCE: BASTROP COUNTY COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Transportation

BY JOEL VALLEY

Upcoming project

Ongoing project

290

969

973

BLAKEYLN.

OLD HWY. 20

EDWARD BURLESON LN.

130 TOLL

812

COUNTY RD.

183

OLD AUSTIN HWY.

304

1 FM 812 safety upgrades Project: FM 812 will be upgraded to increase safety, reduce congestion and improve mobility. Update: The project spans from US 183 in Travis County to Hwy. 21 in Bastrop County. • Timeline: expected to inalize design plans in spring 2026 • Cost: $145 million • Funding source: Texas State Highway Fund

2 Hwy. 21 improvement project Project: Approximately 7 miles of Hwy. 21 from County Road to Old Highway 20 will be expanded. Update: Preliminary plans are for the corridor to become a four-lane divided highway with a grassy median. • Timeline: schematic design and environmental study underway • Cost: TBD • Funding source: TBD

3 Blakey Lane extension Project: Blakey Lane will be extended from Edward Burleson Lane to a roundabout at Old Austin Highway. Update: 3A The project will include installation of a 24-inch waterline and a 35-inch wastewater interceptor from FM 969 to Reed Way. • Timeline: construction begins May 25 • Cost: $7 million-$8 million • Funding source: fees from transportation impact, roadway maintenance, water and wastewater

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Development

BY JOEL VALLEY

Bastrop leaders explore countywide economic development partnership

Zooming in

Bastrop County, a region that spans 896 square miles, is experiencing a majority of its growth in unincorporated areas, according to city documents. However, Carrillo-Trevino told Bastrop City Council that the county “lacks a clear vision of economic development” in response to the absence of a strategic plan. Although there was a drafted resolution in support of a strategic plan—which would identify strengths, opportunities, gaps in workforce or education, and the roles of each of the partici- pants—Bastrop City Council denied the resolution during a March 10 meeting. “The fact that [an operating budget] amount was identied, without a plan, gave great concern to all of the cities,” Carrillo-Trevino said of the draft bylaws.

resolution during a Feb. 23 meeting in support of the creation of the regional economic development partners corporation, the Bastrop City Council and the Bastrop Economic Development Corp. had hesitations after reviewing the resolution and draft bylaws that Glass submitted. Bastrop City Manager Sylvia Carrillo Trevino said ocials from each city raised a variety of concerns, including those about the cost of participation, the lack of transparency and the ability for non-governmental organizations to “buy” a seat on the board. Elgin City Council has yet to vote on the creation of the corporation, according to city documents.

The city of Bastrop is exploring what a regional economic development partners corporation could look like after Bastrop County Precinct 4 Commissioner David Glass proposed the idea. Glass discussed his push for a partnership during a Feb. 12 meeting he sponsored. The Bastrop County-led initiative would bring together ocials from Bastrop County, private companies, and the cities of Bastrop, Elgin, Paige, Rosanky, Smithville and Webberville. Bastrop city sta are preparing to collaborate with ocials from these cities on a strategic plan that would guide the formation of a countywide economic development corporation. Although Smithville City Council approved a

Did you know? This is the second time since last fall that the city of Bastrop has explored a dierent trajectory for the current Bastrop Economic Development Corp. On Oct. 21, 2025, Bastrop City Council discussed the future of the voter-approved nonprot, though no action was taken.

The outlook

Bastrop City Council directed Carrillo- Trevino to work with ocials from other Bastrop County cities of Elgin, Smithville, Paige, Webberville and Rosanky on a strategic plan of their own. “I’m 100% in support of you going to have those conversations so that we can really establish what we’re trying to do with this,” Harris told Carrillo-Trevino during the March 10 meeting. “I feel like we’re the heartbeat of Central Texas, and we have to protect that by not letting anyone else come in and tell us how to do it.”

SOURCE: CITY OF BASTROPCOMMUNITY IMPACT

City of Bastrop ocials are working with county and nearby city leaders to explore options for a countywide economic development partnership.

MATTHEW BROOKSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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Development

BY JOEL VALLEY

Darling plant ordered to self-monitor, report emissions ahead of 2027 hearing

Darling Ingredients

2336

A Travis County District Court judge approved a temporary injunction against Darling Ingredients on March 5. Located between Bastrop County Animal Services and Camp Swift, the facility collects and recycles food industry waste to produce animal feed ingredients, biofuels and other byproducts. The temporary injunction comes after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton led a lawsuit against the Irving, Texas-based company in early February for “unlawfully emitting odors and other chemicals” at its Bastrop facility. Under the temporary injunction, Darling Ingredients must self-monitor and self-report to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality each time hydrogen sulde emissions exceed

1,000 parts per billion. However, the lawsuit sought a stricter threshold of 80 parts per billion. Amy McBee, a community and government aairs representative with Darling Ingredients, recently told Bastrop County Commissioners the facility needs to do better. “We fully recognize, as a neighbor and a partner in this community, that for some period of time, Darling Ingredients was not doing a good job,” McBee said. “We apologize for that.” Paxton emphasized his desire for Darling Ingredients to be held accountable through “signicant” civil penalties and court-ordered relief for violations of Texas’ air quality laws.

Darling Ingredients upgraded the processing equipment at the Bastrop facility to improve eciency and reliability.

COURTESY DARLING INGREDIENTS

What’s next?

Some background

A hearing on a nal injunction is scheduled for July 2027. Until then, Darling Ingredients ocials encourage residents to report their concerns to the team one of two ways, including:

largely address air quality and water quality—to the Bastrop facility. Precinct 4 Commissioner David Glass thanked McBee and Betz on behalf of his constituents. “Apparently, you heard the constituents, and you’ve addressed it,” Glass said. “The odors have been much, much better. I think we’d all agree. So thank you for that and listening to us and coming here and making the investment to improve your system.”

Darling Ingredients ocials updated the Bastrop County Commissioners Court during a Feb. 23 meeting about the Bastrop facility, which TCEQ investigated 32 times between 2021 and 2025. “We’re here to do better,” McBee said. “We want to be a good partner in our community.” Kenton Betz, the regional vice president at Darling Ingredients, also discussed approxi- mately $40 million in improvements—which will

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Bastrop retail boom expands Hwy. 71 corridor From the cover

A look at what’s coming New dining, retail, health and wellness spaces are planned in Bastrop. 1 Sendero • Chuy’s • Crust Pizza Co. • Einstein Bros. Bagels • Jersey Mike’s Subs 2 Burleson Crossing East • Aspen Dental • ATI Physical Therapy • First Watch • Freebirds • LongHorn Steakhouse • PetSmart • Sprouts Farmers Market 3 Bastrop West • Educational mall • Hospital and clinics

What we know

• Scooter’s Coffee • Texas Roadhouse • The Toasted Yolk Cafe • Westlake Dermatology

Bastrop is part of a growing Central Texas mixed- use development trend, with about 500 acres of retail, dining, medical and other uses planned within a 3-mile stretch. Three developments—Sendero, Burleson Crossing East and Bastrop West—are in various stages of construction. While Sendero and Burleson Crossing East would add retail and dining, Sendero would also bring housing and medical services. Bastrop West, meanwhile, could bring the city’s rst full- scale hospital, plus a new hotel and convention center. “Growth is happening all across our region, and as a city, our responsibility is to help guide it,” Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris told Community Impact.

Bastrop

969

304

• Hotel and convention center • Outdoor entertainment space • Youth sports ields

SOURCE: CITY OF BASTROPCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Sendero

75 acres 120+ hotel rooms

The Sendero development is advancing as one of Bastrop’s largest mixed-use projects to date, designed to create a destination where residents and visitors can live, work, shop and dine, according to developer Pearl River Companies. The 75-acre development, led by Houston-based Pearl River Companies, broke ground April 10, 2025, with city ocials and developers celebrating the rst phase of commercial and retail construc- tion at the intersection of FM 969 and Hwy. 71. Nearly a year later, construction is underway, infrastructure improvements have progressed, and Pearl River Companies has continued marketing to potential tenants. Although the estimated completion date for Sendero could stretch into 2030, Chuy’s will kick

o business openings May 18. “We’re proud to see Sendero taking shape and grateful for the strong support we’ve received from residents along the way,” said Mason Mote, a Bastrop native and a co-founder and managing partner at Pearl River Companies. Harris stressed the importance of a thoughtfully planned development. “As Sendero continues to build out, we want to make sure it strengthens our local economy, bene ts our residents and keeps Bastrop the kind of place people are proud to call home,” he said. Future amenities at Sendero will include a hotel and about 90,000 square feet of health- and-wellness-oriented space.

3 acres wellness and medical district 250,000 square feet of retail space 5+ acres public green space 782 luxury apartments

969

COLLINS DR.

SOURCE: PEARL RIVER COMPANIESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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BY JOEL VALLEY

Burleson Crossing East

20 acres 9 acres in Phase 1 11 acres in Phase 2 24,136 square feet of retail space

Burleson Crossing East—a shopping center that will oer a variety of retail, dining and service options—will total nearly 20 acres when complete. The two-phase development is projected to create more than 300 jobs and contribute an estimated $1.4 million to Bastrop’s general fund through annual property and sales taxes, according to city documents. Aaron Nino, the manager of the LongHorn Steakhouse in Burleson Crossing East, shared his excitement that his business was the rst to contribute to those sales. The restaurant opened to customers Feb. 16. “I worked my way up through the ranks, and when I got the opportunity to open up this location,

I jumped at it,” he said. “What makes it special is the fact that we’re more than just a great steakhouse. We’re a place where our guests will celebrate birthdays and anniversaries.” Sprouts Farmers Market and First Watch—a brunch and lunch eatery—were the second and third businesses, respectively, to open in Burleson Crossing East. Bastrop Chamber of Commerce President Becki Womble told Community Impact the grand opening of these businesses in a development like Burleson Crossing East represents more than just a new place to shop. “It reects the community’s growth and evolv- ing needs,” she said.

BLAKEYLN.

303

SOURCE: W.E. O’NEILCOMMUNITY IMPACT

The outlook

Bastrop West

400 acres $52,000 hotel and convention center study $50,000 medical mall study

Harris said the projects reect Bastrop’s broader eort to expand its commercial base while accommodating continued population growth. Other developments are planned in Bastrop County, including a 189-acre vacant property in Cedar Creek that property owners have slated for redevelopment.

Another proposal under review is Bastrop West, where city-backed feasibility studies are exam- ining a hotel-convention center and a medical complex that could include a full-service hospital. The studies, which Bastrop City Council OK’d in late December, are underway as part of a city partnership with a private development company. “Before we embark on the projects, we’re trying to determine if the data even nds that the projects are feasible,” Bastrop City Manager Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino said. City sta told Community Impact preliminary ndings “have been positive” and the completed studies should be ready to take to council for formal approval in April.

Medical mall

“These investments signal condence in Bastrop’s future.” BECKI WOMBLE, BASTROP CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT

Hotel and conference

SOURCE: CITY OF BASTROPCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Community Farmers market guide

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

Smithville

Bastrop

4 Smithville Farmers Market • Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (September through May); Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (June through August)

• 100 NW First St., Smithville • www.smithvillemarket.com

Bastrop

HAWTHORNE ST.

Key

1 Eden East Farm Stand • Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Eden East Farm, 1910 Main St., Bastrop • www.edeneastaustin.com 2 Main Street Market • Multiple dates throughout the year • Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.texasmarketguide.com 3 Community Gardens • Multiple dates throughout the year • Community Gardens, 1067 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop • www.cgbastrop.com 21

Elgin

SNAP Artisans Producers Night Pop-up

Elgin

DEPOT ST.

5 Elgin Farmers Market • Thursdays, 4-7 p.m. • 109 Depot St., Elgin • Facebook: Elgin Farmers Market 21

290

Bastrop

7 F.A.M.E. Days Formerly known as the grassroots event called First Friday Art Walk, the now city-run Fridays, Art, Market and Entertainment event features a variety of vendors, such as local restaurants and craftspeople. • First Friday of each month, 5-8 p.m. • Pine Street, near Main Street

8 Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market The year-round Saturday market in downtown Bastrop provides shoppers with a place to browse locally grown produce, pasture-raised meats, baked goods, prepared foods, plants and handmade items directly from producers.

6 VFW Flea Market • Saturdays, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. • VFW Post 6115, 118 Old Sayers Road, Elgin • www.vfw6115.org This list is not comprehensive.

SAYERS RD.

• Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • 1302 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.bastrop1832farmersmarket.com

RAMONA ST.

BASTROP STATE PARK

and Water Street, Bastrop • Facebook: city of Bastrop

PINE ST.

150

304

Smithville

NW 1ST ST.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

150

MARTIN LUTHER KING DR.

111

BASTROP 739 State Hwy 71 (512) 308-0250

ELGIN 1100 US-290 (512) 285-2741

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Community

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLION

Farmers markets across the Bastrop County area bring together local vendors, fresh food and community members in one place. For nearly 11,000 eligible Bastrop County residents, farmers markets can also serve as an accessible place to shop with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benets, according to the Texas Health and Human Services. Those interested in using SNAP benets can present their SNAP card to o cials at participating farmers markets. O cials will then distribute market currency to use on eligible items, according to Texas Farmers Markets. A guide to SNAP at farmers markets

SNAP eligible and non-eligible items Eligible items • Fruits, vegetables, garden seeds • Meat, ish, poultry • Bread, cereal • Plants that produce food • Milk, milk substitutes, dairy products Non-eligible items

• Tobacco • Alcohol • Non-food items • Vitamins • Medicines Items no longer eligible after April 1 • Candy bars, gum and taffy • Nuts, raisins or fruits that have been candied, crystallized, glazed or coated with chocolate, yogurt or caramel • Sweetened drinks

Patrons at the Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market can pick up their SNAP shopping card at the Sunset Hill Farms booth.

SOURCE: BASTROP 1832 FARMERS MARKET, TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COURTESY BASTROP 1832 FARMERS MARKET

The impact

Breaking it down

In January, 4,757 Bastrop County households used SNAP, accounting for 10,607 eligible indi- viduals, according to the latest data from Texas Health and Human Services. The program is the second-most responsive federal program oering assistance to citizens during and after downturns in the economy, only after unemployment insurance, according to the CBPP.

SNAP is essential to providing nutritional support to working families with low-paying jobs, low-income adults 60 years and older and those with disabilities living on xed incomes, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, or CBPP. Texas had 1.6 million households utilize the SNAP program in September 2025, according to the most recent data from the Texas Health and Human Services. There were 3.5 million individ- uals who were eligible to receive benets in the same month.

SNAP eligibility limits Families are considered for SNAP based on household size and monthly income.

Family size $2,152

5 6 7 8

$5,177 $5,934 $6,690 $7,446

3 4 2

$2,909 $3,665 $4,421

Check out page 14 to see which local markets accept SNAP

SOURCE: TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

FM 969 CORRIDOR STUDY

With five locations throughout the greater Austin area, we make healthcare accessible and strive to treat every patient like family. We are proud to serve the community with: Your Family . Our Team . Good Health . Same trusted care, serving our community since 1985!

The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are working together to identify, evaluate, and recommend potential improvements for FM 969 (Farm to Market 969) from SH 130 in East Travis County to SH 71 in Bastrop County. CAMPO and TxDOT are conducting an open house to share community feedback, gather input on preliminary improvement options, and share next steps. The open house will include both in-person and virtual options to participate.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 4 – 7 p.m. April 15, 2026 - May 18, 2026 To access the virtual open house, visit bit.ly/FM969 or use the QR code . IN-PERSON OPEN HOUSE VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE Spiderwood Studios 140 Utley Rd, Elgin, TX 78621

Public comments are welcome through May 18, 2026 , and can be submitted in-person and online. Information and commenting by mail may be requested by calling (512) 651-3964.

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS FM 969 Corridor Study Project Team FM 969 Corridor Study, c/o CD&P, PO Box 5459, Austin, TX 78763 CAMPOstudies@projectinformation.com

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Community

BY JOEL VALLEY

From library shelves to backyard gardens

Readers can check out more than just books at the Bastrop Public Library. Sow and share Located near the checkout counter, a seed library helps community members grow their gardening skills by oering free vegetable, herb and ower seeds. Those who borrow seeds are encouraged to return seeds from their harvest, so others can check them out as well. “We try to have something for everybody, and we’ve had a lot of participation,” said Amie Cuve- lier, the librarian who spearheads the Bastrop Seed Library, noting they currently have 13 varieties. Lend a hand Seed donations can be brought to the Bastrop Public Library, 1100 Church St., Bastrop.

The Bastrop Public Library maintains its catalog of seeds through donations, from packets to seeds still in pods.

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF BASTROP

FARMST.

CHESTNUT ST.

1100 Church St., Bastrop www.cityo astrop.org/page/lib.home

Sharing seeds promotes local food production, according to the Bastrop County Master Gardener Association.

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

State

BY HANNAH NORTON

300-plus HQs move to Texas in 9 years

Put in perspective

Texas oers various grants, tax breaks and other nancial incentives to businesses based in the state. Since 2024, Texas has invested nearly $400 million in semiconductor projects across the state under the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, according to previous Community Impact reporting. Manufacturing, research and development companies can apply for an up to 75% reduction in the taxes they pay to local school districts under the state’s Jobs, Energy, Technology and Innovation program. Houston-based NRG Energy moved forward with a natural gas power plant project in mid-February after being granted a tax break under the JETI program, Community Impact reported.

Texas attracts dozens of company headquarters to the state annually, with at least 314 businesses moving their main oces to Texas from other states between 2015- 2024, data from the governor’s oce shows. Chevron, an oil and gas company, moved its home base from northern California to Houston last year, citing a need to “enable better collaboration and engagement” with its employees and business partners. Caterpillar Inc., which manufactures construction and mining equipment, moved to Irving from Illinois in 2022, which then-CEO Jim Umpleby said would “support Caterpillar’s strategy for protable growth.” The Lone Star State saw the largest inux of companies in 2021, with 79 businesses relocating to Texas that year, per state data.

Among those companies was Tesla, with CEO Elon Musk citing housing prices and a lack of space as driving factors in the company’s 2021 move from California to Austin. State ocials and experts said Texas’ economic incentives and light regulatory environment are key reasons why companies brought their operations to the state. “Texas wants companies to move here, and [company leaders] know that,” Megan Mauro, interim president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, told Community Impact . “Our legislative policy is really impacted by the voices of employers here.” The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Oce was still compiling 2025 relocation data as of press time, a spokesperson said.

Mapping the growth At least 24 companies moved their headquarters to Texas in 2024, with more than half landing in the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

One more thing

X Number of relocations from each state Where companies moved from

In November, voters amended the Texas Constitution to raise a tax exemption on businesses’ personal property, such as equipment and vehicles, from $2,500 to $125,000. This could save the average small- business owner up to $3,500 per year, Community Impact reported. “[Businesses] need to know that the [state] they’re going into is not … going to be imposing more taxes and regulations that make it more dicult to operate,” Gov. Greg Abbott said during a March 2 news conference.

CT 1 MA 2

NC 1 VA 1 NJ 1

A Dallas-Fort Worth: 15 relocations

B Austin: 6 relocations C Houston: 2 relocations D San Antonio: 1 relocation

FL 1

NOTE: TWO COMPANY RELOCATIONS FROM CANADA AND THE UNITED KINGDOM ARE NOT SHOWN ON THE U.S. MAP.

SOURCE: TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT

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Election

BY JOEL VALLEY

Voter Guide Dates to know

2026

Where to vote

April 21: polls closed for San Jacinto Day holiday April 28: last day of early voting in person May 2: election day; last day to receive absentee ballot

April 2: last day to register to vote for the May 2 election April 20: rst day of early voting in person; absentee ballot application deadline

City of Bastrop residents can cast their ballots at polling sites throughout the county. Visit www.bastropvotes.org for polling locations.

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

Mayor

KEY: *Incumbent

Joseph Stan eld Occupation & Experience: Solutions Architect, Dell Technologies, 15 years; Government & Fortune 500 contracts; Bastrop resident, 9 years; Self-funded candidate www.staneld4btx.com

Ishmael Harris* Occupation & Experience : Mayor of Bastrop; Planning & Zoning Commission Chair; Austin Water professional; longtime community volunteer www.ishmaelharrisformayor.com

What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing Bastrop is managing growth responsibly. Our city is growing quickly, and we must ensure infrastructure, roads and services keep pace. My focus is thoughtful planning, strengthening infrastructure and making sure development supports residents while preserving the character and history that dene Bastrop.

Infrastructure is overwhelmed; roads, drainage, and utilities are buckling under growth. I’d work with council and the city manager toward a policy requiring veried infrastructure capacity before approvals. Multi-family developments on undersized lots are a prime example of growth outpacing planning. Growth must fund itself.

If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?

Growth is inevitable, but how we guide it matters. I will continue working on responsible planning, updated development standards and infrastructure improvements so Bastrop grows in a strategic way. Our goal should always be growth that strengthens our community while respecting our heritage and quality of life.

My focus will be requiring infrastructure capacity verication before development approvals, ensuring growth pays for itself through proper impact fees, and delivering transparent public nancial reporting. I’ll bring budgetary discipline, data-driven decisions, and measurable outcomes with accountability to residents, not developers.

If elected, what would be your top three priorities?

Strengthening infrastructure and mobility, guiding responsible economic development, and protecting Bastrop’s heritage and quality of life. I will continue working with residents, businesses and regional partners to ensure our growth is strategic, balanced and benecial for both longtime residents and future generations.

1. Fiscal discipline: transparent budgeting and public reporting. 2. Infrastructure rst: no approvals without veried road, drainage, and utility capacity. 3. Preserve community character: smart, measured growth that protects Bastrop’s identity and quality of life.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

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Events

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

April

4K Bluebonnet Ruck March and Spring Fling Community members are invited to Restoration Ranch to enjoy an afternoon of food trucks, family-friendly games, pony rides, vendors, raes and a silent auction. The festival will kick o with a 4K march to raise veteran awareness. Restoration Ranch works to help heal veterans through equine therapy. • April 11, 11 a.m. (Ruck March); noon-4 p.m. (Spring Fling) • Free (admission, kids 10 and under); $10 (admission, adults); $20 (4K registration) • Restoration Ranch, 154 Hills Prairie Road, Bastrop • www.restorationranch.org/2026-spring-fling Calvary Episcopal School Spring Fling The annual fundraiser will oer dinner, a live auction, music, a photo booth and more. Proceeds from the adults-only fundraiser will support programs at Calvary Episcopal School. • April 24, 6-11:30 p.m. • $125 (admission) • Texas Firewalkers Ranch, 3004 TX-304, Rosanky • www.calvaryschool.net

Springfest Hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Center and CASA of Bastrop, Fayette & Lee Counties, the family-friendly event will feature a play zone, food trucks, games and music—including a chance to meet £rst responders, educators and other community leaders. • April 18, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • Fisherman’s Park, 1200 Willow St., Bastrop • www.springfest.org

Lost Pines Learning Collective Annual Education Fair

Now in its second year, the education fair brings together a range of school and summer camp options throughout Bastrop under one roof. In addition to educational booths, kid-friendly activities such as crafts, a bounce house and snacks will be available. • April 11, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission, RSVP online for a raffle ticket) • Lumberyard Music Hall, 1109 Main St., Unit A, Bastrop • www.lplcbastrop.com/education-fair

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