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Southwest Austin Dripping Springs Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 8 NOV. 25 DEC. 26, 2025
Tower sta ng falls short of airport growth
Local near-miss incidents coupled with rising employee stress hint at an agency struggling to keep pace with demand, further revealing local delays are part of broader challenges across U.S. air tra c control.
Austin, or even Texas. A history of disrupted training pipelines, high academy turnover and challenging qualifying standards have resulted in understa ed towers across the nation. As ABIA expands, o cials worry tower sta ng may not keep pace with growth— posing risks to safety and the region’s economy.
BY HALEY MCLEOD
Flight delays can feel random but Austin’s tarmac backups are just the tip of a country- wide air tra c system under strain. The air tra c control tower at Austin-Berg- strom International Airport is one of the most understa ed in the country, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett said, yet the problem isn’t unique to
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Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Also in this issue
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Election
Page 13
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Check out results from the Nov. 4 election
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Nonpro t Page 23 Learn about volunteer opportunities in your area
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Austin’s air tra c control tower, which oversees airplane takeo s and landings, is currently operating at less than half its recommended sta ng. HALEY MCLEOD COMMUNITY IMPACT
Dining
Page 31
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About Community Impact
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.
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Judy LeBas General Manager jlebas@communityimpact. com
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Impacts Southwest Austin
360
183 4 Waterloo Audiology Founded by Kelli House and Sara Burge, the hearing center helps patients with a range of services including hearing aids, hearing protection and tinnitus treatment. The practice has additional locations in Georgetown, Seguin and San Marcos. • Opened in November • 7415 Southwest Parkway, Bldg. 6, Ste. 400, Austin • www.waterlooaudiology.com 3 Southern Steer Butcher Owned by Jonathan Candee, the business sells a range of proteins and offers advice on seasoning, cooking and pairing. Customers can find beef, chicken, pork, sides and appetizers. The business also operates a dry ager in which customers can enroll as a member in the Dry Aging Program to reserve a space in the dry ager with a custom name plate. • Opened Oct. 18 • 8701 W. Hwy. 71, Ste. 100, Austin • www.southernsteer.com 5 Leona Botanical Cafe & Bar The culinary destination will feature three counter service restaurants: Dee Dee first brick-and-mortar location, Veracruz All Natural and Bun Bun Burger. The concept is a collaboration between husband-and-wife duo, Lakana and Justin Trubiana and sister-duo, Reyna and Maritza Vazquez. • Opening Nov. 11
MOPAC
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• 6405 Brodie Lane, Austin • www.leonacafebar.com
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Coming soon
2 Moreno Barbecue The locally-owned barbecue joint is now serving the Southwest Austin community with a menu featuring meat by the pound, sandwiches, tacos, nachos, macaroni and cheese, burgers, sides and breakfast options. • Opened in late September • 9900 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Ste. M700, Austin • www.morenobbq.com
Now open
6 Granny’s Tacos In an Instagram post, Crux Climbing Center shared the news that Granny’s Tacos will be bringing its food truck to the climbing facility’s South Austin location which is in the works. • Opening TBD • 220 Ralph Ablanedo Drive, Austin • www.grannystacosatx.com
1 Firefly Equestrian The full-service English riding and dressage facility has launched in Southwest Austin offering full-care horse boarding, dressage training, English riding lessons for ages three and up and horse training programs. The facility features over 100 acres of trails and arenas for both competitive and recreational riders. • Opened in August • 12901 Trail End, Austin • www.fireflyequestrianaustin.com
FALL IN TO FERTILITY Let’s take the next steps together.
Dr. Chang is accepting new patients
737.497.9944 5301 Southwest Parkway, Bldg. 2, Ste 350 Austin 78735
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY DACIA GARCIA
7 St. David’s CareNow Urgent Care The healthcare system is expanding its urgent care options with a new location on Slaughter Lane. The center will provide care for minor conditions and illnesses including the flu, colds and sprains. • Opening TBD • 200 W. Slaughter Lane, Ste. 110, Austin • www.stdavids.com/specialties/urgent-care
Now open
Now open
Relocations
8 Tribe Comics & Games The comic store and community hub is in the process of relocating from its previous location at 3005 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. D113, Austin. Community members can find comics ranging from Marvel and DC to Dark Horse and manga. The store frequently hosts game nights and events. • Relocated late October • 321 W. Ben White Blvd., Ste. 101, Austin • www.tribecag.com
11 Barnes & Noble The nationwide book chain is now selling books, magazines, toys, games, gifts, vinyl, CDs and more at its latest Austin location in Southpark Meadows. • Opened Nov. 5 • 9600 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Austin • www.barnesandnoble.com
14 Mendocino Farms The restaurant launched its 11th Texas location earlier this month, offering its signature salads and sandwiches. Customers can find options such as the “Not So Fried” Chicken Sandwich and the Avocado & Quinoa Superfood Ensalada as well as chef specials including The Seasonal Goat with Pink Lady Apples. • Opened Oct. 14 • 4301 W. William Cannon Drive, Bldg. H, Ste. 110, Austin • www.mendocinofarms.com
In the news
9 Altitude Trampoline Park The indoor trampoline park celebrated its 10 year anniversary in October. The space showcases a rock wall, a basketball area, a soccer area, dodgeball, inflatables and more trampoline attractions. • 6800 West Gate Blvd., Austin • www.altitudetrampolinepark.com 10 Meanwhile Brewing Co. South Austin brewery Meanwhile Brewing Co. will celebrate its fifth anniversary with three days of festivities from Nov. 7-9. The brewery will release special beers, offer food deals, and host live music, family-friendly activities and local vendors. • 3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin • www.meanwhilebeer.com
12 Doc’s Backyard Grill The neighborhood bar and grill celebrated 20 years in the Austin community in October. The eatery will be serving up specials on the 20th of every month until next October to celebrate the milestone.
Closings
15 CVS The nationwide chain posted a sign and papers on its entrance stating it would close on Nov. 11. The sign states, “Our store is closing, but we’re still nearby,” and notes two close-by locations on South Congress and
• 5207 Brodie Lane, Austin • www.eatdrinkdocs.com
Slaughter Lane. • Closing Nov. 11 • 520 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin • www.cvs.com
13 Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital The fear-free veterinary center celebrated its 20th anniversary in October. The center offers services such as customizable exams, acupuncture, nutritional consults, preventative care, surgery, dermatology, cardiology and more.
• 10706 Brodie Lane, Austin • www.staroftexasvet.com
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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION
When facing cancer, where you go rst matters
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10/23/25 9:31 AM COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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Impacts
Dripping Springs
BY SIENNA WIGHT
Relocations
BELL SPRINGS RD.
OLD FITZHUGH RD.
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4 GeauxIQ The web development company from Adonis Gray relocated from 100 Commons Road, Ste. 7, Dripping Springs. • Relocated Oct. 24 • 215 Old Fitzhugh Road, Ste. B & C, Dripping Springs • www.geauxiq.io
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In the news
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N TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
5 Rolling in Thyme and Dough The cafe, owned by Fabienne Bollom and her children, Jessica and Jerome Bollom, celebrated 20 years on Oct. 25. The restaurant serves breakfast, sandwiches, soups, baked goods and co ee. • 333 W. Hwy. 290, Dripping Springs • www.thymeanddough.com 6 Curis Functional Health The clinic, owned by Chae and Monya Tracy, has been serving the community for 20 years. It o ers chiropractic, mental health and nutrition services. • 800 W. Hwy. 290, Dripping Springs • www.gocuris.com
• Opened Oct. 8 • 14141 Hwy. 290, Bldg. 700, Austin • www.igniteperformancept.com
Now open
1 Lucky Finds The luxury resale boutique from Alexandra Silva is now o ering a curated selection of clothing, decor and jewelry. • Opened Oct. 24 • 215 Old Fitzhugh Road, Ste. A, Dripping Springs • Instagram: lucky. inds25 2 Ignite Performance Physical Therapy Owned by local J.D. Whittemore, Ignite’s team provides 60-minute one-on-one sports physical therapy sessions.
3 Sculpt Wellness Spa The wellness spa from Meggie Buenz and Nichlas Jay provides 40-minute body slimming sessions, during which laser therapy helps shrink fat cells. The clinic also creates a 3D rendering of a customer’s body to help
track progression. • Opened Nov. 10 • 400 W. Hwy. 290, C-102, Dripping Springs • www.sculptws.com
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TREED LOTS
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Disclaimer: @November 2025 Ash Creek Homes. All rights reserved. Information shown is representative of proposed Ash Creek Homes plans for Drew Lane. Photos and renderings are strictly for illustrative purposes only. All information is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale, and all dimensions are approximate. Please see Ash Creek Homes sales associate for details and visit www.ashcreekhomes.com. www.ashcreekhomes.com/drew-lane 512-328-2122
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON
City cleanup initiative ends after state sweeps A three-week city initiative to clear dozens of encampments ended Nov. 8 on the heels of a sep- arate state operation to remove homeless people from public areas in Austin. What happened Gov. Greg Abbott announced the state cleanup Oct. 21. He said dozens of encampments with thousands of pounds of debris were removed, while dozens of arrests and extensive drug seizures were made. The move surprised local o cials, who labeled the operation as a “show of force” without long-term bene t. They said Texas agencies didn’t notify Austin after the city started its wider encampment management initiative days before. “It’s not the way government ought to be working, especially when we’re talking about our most vulnerable Texans,” Mayor Kirk Watson said of the state operation. Homeless Strategy O cer David Gray said the Texas Department of Transportation regularly clears out encampments and debris from state rights of way like highway frontage roads and underpasses, and that city leaders had been holding weekly coordination calls with the agency. However, TxDOT’s work hadn’t crossed over into city property and parkland until mid-October. Since then, multiple Austin departments coordinated to prioritize dozens of clean-ups and connect homeless residents with resources and shelter under the city-led program. Gray said the e ort was meant to get ahead of impacts from severe weather and a cold winter season. It con- cluded Nov. 3-8 with a focus on “harder-to-reach”
Austin-San Antonio rail study launched Travis County o cials approved a $124,953 feasibility study exploring com- muter rail options between Austin and San Antonio. The big picture The study into an initiative long cham- pioned by county Judge Andy Brown will evaluate passenger rail options on state-managed land along major highways, including existing rail infrastructure, with potential service options from the Amtrak station in San Antonio to the Austin-Berg- strom International Airport. It’ll examine rail on existing transportation corridors without requiring signi cant private land acquisition, making the route potentially more feasible and faster to develop. “If we got on it quickly, we can build it before I-35 construction is nished,” Brown said. The theoretical path would run from downtown Austin to the east along Hwy. 71 past the airport, south down SH 130 and west into San Antonio along I-10, Brown said. He noted the study is currently only expected to look at SH 130 and I-10. Brown said proponents of a commuter line have long hoped to partner with Union Paci c—which operates existing freight lines along I-35—on passenger rail, but the railroad has prioritized freight operations. A summary report on project manage- ment, engineering and other information is expected in 175 days.
Austin Resource Recovery crews addressed hundreds of encampments this fall.
Encampment response
• 669 encampments cleaned • 1,212 people found at encampments
• 181 moved to shelters • 87 connected to services
• 1.35M pounds/ 673.86 tons of debris removed • 71 citations and 22 arrests
CITY OF AUSTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
public land deeper in city greenbelts, parks, and nature preserves. The initiatives took place under a 2021 state law that bans camping in public, as well as Austin’s local camping ban reinstated by city voters the same year. What’s next Renewed focus on public encampments is continuing in Austin after the recent city and state initiatives. City Council voted Nov. 6 to expand city-led out- reach to those living on the streets, and to launch an encampment management dashboard with improved processes for public reporting. Updates are expected in the coming months.
City o cials OK internal hires to lead Austin Energy, auditor’s o ce
interim AE GM Stuart Reilly to that role on a full- time basis starting Nov. 2. Reilly, who has nearly 20 years of public utility experience including six as an AE executive, will now earn a $470,000 salary. And after selecting him for the role in October, City Council approved the hire of Deputy City Auditor Jason Hadavi to lead that o ce Nov. 6. The 20-year auditor’s o ce veteran will earn a $216,341 salary.
Austin o cials approved internal hires for two city leadership positions this fall. What happened National searches for a new Austin Energy general manager and city auditor launched this year. The recruitment e orts came after former AE GM Bob Kahn’s retirement in the spring, and ahead of City Auditor Corrie Stokes’ planned departure in late 2025. City Manager T.C. Broadnax appointed former
Stuart Reilly, Austin Energy General Manager
Jason Hadavi, City Auditor
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Election
BY HANNAH NORTON, DARCY SPRAGUE & BEN THOMPSON
Texas voters OK 17 constitutional changes Nearly 3 million Texans voted in the Nov. 4 election, approving all 17 constitutional amendments proposed by state lawmakers, per unofficial counts from the secretary of state. The overview The newly-approved changes to the Texas Constitution include increased property tax exemptions for homeowners and businesses; a $20 billion investment in water infrastructure; new rules for the state judicial oversight commission; and tighter restrictions on when judges can grant bail. Other amendments will create new tax exemptions for certain groups or prohibit the creation of specific taxes. Each statewide proposition was approved by at least two-thirds of Texas lawmakers before being placed on the ballot.
Results breakdown
Proposition 10: Tax exemption for homes destroyed by fire
For
Against
Passed
65.37% 34.63% Proposition 2: Ban on capital gains taxes 30.97% Proposition 1: Texas State Technical College Funding 69.03%
89.28%
10.72%
Proposition 11: Homestead exemption for elderly and disabled homeowners
77.68%
22.32%
Proposition 3: Tightening bail rules 61.14% Proposition 4: Water supply funding 70.42%
Proposition 12: Judicial oversight 61.90%
38.86%
38.10%
Proposition 13: Increasing the homestead exemption 79.41% 20.59% Proposition 14: State dementia research institute 68.57% 31.43%
29.58%
Proposition 6: Ban on securities transaction taxes 58.87% 45.13% Proposition 5: Animal feed tax exemption 63.61% 36.39% Proposition 7: Tax exemption for military spouses 86.25% 13.8% Proposition 8: Ban on death taxes 72.22% 27.78% Proposition 9: Business tax exemption 65.05% 34.96%
Proposition 15: Parental rights 69.87%
30.13%
Proposition 16: Requiring citizenship to vote 71.95% 28.05% Proposition 17: Border security tax exemption 57.42% 42.58%
For a longer version of this article, visit communityimpact.com.
17 propositions on the ballot passed 0 of 17 propositions failed
SOURCE: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Austin voters reject tax increase
HaysCo voters support tax increase for emergency services A voter-approved tax rate increase for the North Hays County Emergency Services District No. 1— serving the Dripping Springs, Driftwood and Henly areas—was approved by 60% of voters, or 4,859 of the 8,081 who have cast a ballot in the Nov. 4 election. Results are unofficial until canvassed. What happened The North Hays EMS board adopted a proposed fiscal year 2025-26 tax rate of $0.05 per $100 property valuation in August. That rate, a 60.93% hike from the previous rate of $0.03107 per $100 valuation, required voter approval as it would gen- erate more revenue than allowed under state law. The tax rate voters approved this election will result in an additional $100 annually, or $8.33 per month, on the tax bill of residents whose home has
North Hays ESD No. 1 results The emergency services district serving Dripping Springs, Driftwood and Henly asked voters to approve a tax rate increase to fund staffing needs.
Austin Prop. Q results
For
Against
Passed
Proposition A 4,866 3,225
For
Against
Proposition Q 62,952 109,375
SOURCE: HAYS COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: HAYS COUNTY, TRAVIS COUNTY, WILLIAMSON COUNTY/ COMMUNITY IMPACT
a taxable value of $500,000. The tax increase will be used to fund staffing needs for EMS response capabilities and reduce overtime for emergency medical personnel, as previously reported by Community Impact. In April, North Hays EMS split from San Marcos Hays County EMS, partly due to the North Hays EMS board wanting taxpayer dollars to go into their service area, Chief Bob Luddy said.
Austin voters rejected Proposition Q, a 20% tax rate increase, by a nearly two-to- one margin. The outcome dropped the city tax rate by 5 cents, although it’s still about 10% higher than last year’s. The election also led city officials to cut the fiscal year 2025-26 budget they approved in August (see Page 14).
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Election
BY BEN THOMPSON
Austin budget cuts advance after election
Budget revisions Approved budget (Aug.)
Revised budget (Nov.)
Public safety $1.00B $990.94M
Austin leaders moved to adopt a downsized fiscal year 2025-26 budget in November after voters rejected a tax hike. What happened Proposition Q, the ballot measure for a property tax rate above the city’s voter-approval limit, failed in the Nov. 4 election. That result lowered Austin’s tax rate, reducing the city budget. The owner of a median-valued home in Aus- tin—estimated at $494,803 this fiscal year—can still expect to pay just over $100 more in property taxes; Proposition Q would’ve added a more than $300 annual increase. Utility bills and other city charges are also expected to rise by about $115 this year for the typical resident, city officials said. Austinites won’t face another tax rate election, or TRE, in the near future due to a city policy limiting TREs to every four years unless the city faces a “financial emergency.”
The approach In July, City Manager T.C. Broadnax outlined a draft budget that City Council later increased by more than $100 million to fund various public pro- grams, using projected added tax revenue. After the election, a revised budget recommendation cutting most spending planned under Proposition Q was produced for consideration Nov. 7. A final spending plan was set for approval in late November, after press time. One more thing The election outcome renewed calls for a deep dive into city spending. Mayor Kirk Watson suggested an audit of city services and Broadnax outlined several government efficiency processes. Officials are also voting to reign in their expenses by reforming council spending policies, and to adopt new financial reporting and best practices ahead of future annual budgeting reviews.
-1.10%
Parks, libraries, animal services $247.13M $241.89M
-2.12%
Public health, homelessness, social services $185.9M $150.05M -19.29%
Transfers/other $107.12M $64.72M
-39.58%
Housing and Planning $25.96M $25.29M
-2.56%
Arts and culture $11.08M $10.88M
-1.80%
NOTE: REVISED BUDGET SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER PRESS TIME.
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY ELLE BENT & CHLOE YOUNG
Austin ISD to hold off on 3 proposed school closures Austin ISD will no longer plan to close Palm, Bryker Woods and Maplewood elementaries. Additionally, the district will postpone any pro- posed attendance boundary changes until next year, excluding those related to intervention at failing schools, Superintendent Matias Segura said Nov. 4. The announcement follows weeks of protesting from AISD parents, staff and students against the district’s initial plan to close 13 schools and rezone most campuses. The update On Nov. 20, after press time, the AISD board will move forward with voting on the closure of 10 of the 13 campuses it initially proposed to close next school year. Seven of these campuses have received three consecutive F ratings and require state-mandated intervention through turnaround plans. After
School proposed to close:
Where students will go:
Guerrero-Thompson, Wooldridge elementaries
Barrington Elementary
Galindo, Zilker elementaries
Becker Elementary
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NOTE: REILLY ELEMENTARY AND ODOM ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS WILL EXPERIENCE PROGRAM CHANGES OR MOVES. SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT Galindo Elementary Oak Springs Elementary Blackshear Elementary Ridgetop Elementary Reilly Elementary Sunset Valley Elementary Cunningham, Boone elementaries Widen Elementary Rodriguez Elementary Winn Montessori Pecan Springs, Andrews elementaries Bedichek Middle School Covington, Paredes, Mendez middle schools Martin Middle School Kealing, Marshall, Lively middle schools Dawson Elementary closing these schools, the district will provide sup- port at whichever campus the majority of students are reassigned to, which could include principals and teachers having to meet certain criteria.
Former AISD school slated for housing Austin ISD’s former Rosedale School campus in North Austin could be developed into a six-story apartment complex, but some neighbors are concerned about traffic and safety in the area. What’s happening OHT Partners has proposed building a 435-unit, market-rate apartment complex spanning six stories with a parking garage.
Dripping Springs ISD receives perfect financial score Dripping Springs ISD scored 100 out of 100 points, or “A,” in its Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas, or FIRST, rating for the 2024-25 rating year, which accounts for data collected in fiscal year 2023-24. How it works
Dripping Springs ISD FIRST ratings
100
100
98
90 98
The ratings hold districts accountable for their financial management practices, according to DSISD officials. FIRST ratings are based on 21 indicators. A school district must pass four critical indicators, or it will automatically fail. The indicators analyze district funds, how they are spent and how they are reported.
75
50
25
0
The school FIRST rating is the financial account- ability rating system for all Texas school districts.
2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
2020-21
Fiscal Year
SOURCE: DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Proud to be the only school in Austin fully accredited by the American Montessori Society, serving Infants through Middle School An authentic, compassionate, & joyful Montessori community
( ) - • www.mariposamontessori.com • Paisano Trail, Austin
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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION
Development
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Power delivery crucial for local tech expansions As the Austin metro area continues to see expansion in the technology sector, industry lead- ers are highlighting key critical area of interest: power delivery. What they’re saying Ed Latson, CEO of the regional economic partnership Opportunity Austin, said power delivery is now “up there” with workforce in terms of priorities for international businesses exploring potential projects in the area. “They want to know if they’re going to be able to get it now, and also what their plans are for the future,” he said at an October panel discussion. Eric Van Hensbergen, a leader at technology company Arm, said powering buildings has become a No. 1 consideration for corporate expansions—and one that’s especially relevant for data centers.
Projects in the pipeline Opportunity Austin managed more than 200 local projects in 2025.
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General manufacturing Clean tech Biotech/life sciences Automotive Software/IT Aerospace/defense:
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1K residences planned at MoPac retail site A shopping center at Hwy. 290 and MoPac is slated for housing-centered redevelopment. What’s happening The retail center anchored by a Best Buy is being rezoned for a 60-foot mixed-use project with 1,000 residences. The update is in anticipation of Best Buy not renewing its lease in the future; a development timeline isn’t set.
45
SOURCE: OPPORTUNITY AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
At least five data centers have opened or announced intentions to open in the Austin metro area in the last few years, tapping into land avail- ability and a deregulated energy market outside of Austin’s city limits. Did you know? In 2025, most businesses seeking to locate in the Austin area were from international sources led by Taiwan, Korea, India, Australia and the United Kingdom. Most domestic relocation interest comes from California.
Dripping Springs community center breaks ground After 10 years of planning, Dripping Springs city officials broke ground on the Stephenson Building on Oct. 23. The gist The city-owned historic building at 311 Old than double to accommodate downtown visitors. “It’s going to give our community and visitors a place where we can localize and centralize,” Mayor Bill Foulds said at the groundbreaking Oct. 23. City Council approved the $4.89 million
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The background The Stephenson Building was built in 1939 and operated as a high school until 1949. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. Today, the building is owned by the city.
construction project Oct. 7, to be completed by QA Construction. Renovations should be complete in about a year.
Fitzhugh Road is undergoing renovations to house a performance center and offices. The structure will be extended and its parking lot area will more
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY HALEY MCLEOD
Upcoming projects
BARTON CREEK BLVD.
360
1 Dripping Springs Southwest Connection Project: A 2.4-mile, newly designed four-lane divided roadway stretching from Mount Gainor Road to RM 12 will improve access to RM 12 and offer an alternative route to Hwy. 290. Update: Design work is underway. • Timeline: No construction timeline has been established. Only the design phase is currently funded through county certificates of obligation. • Cost: $1.4 million • Funding source: Hays County certificates of obligation
MOPAC
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FLETCHER LN.
PATTON RANCH RD.
290
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Ongoing projects
2 Slaughter Lane Corridor Project: The Slaughter Lane corridor project, spanning FM 1826 to Old Lockhart Road, aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and bicyclists while improving mobility for drivers. The enhancements included expanding the four-lane thoroughfare to a six-lane divided roadway from MoPac to Brodie Lane. Update: Crews are active along Slaughter Lane between MoPac and just east of Brodie Lane. • Timeline: 2025-27 • Cost: $13 million • Funding source: Austin 2016 Mobility Bonds, federal grant through the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization 3 Oak Hill Parkway near William Cannon Drive Project: The 7-mile stretch of highway has been undergoing a $677 million facelift since 2021. The Texas Department of Transportation is currently reconstructing Hwy. 290 in Oak Hill, transforming the existing four-lane, undivided roadway to a six-lane divided highway with new frontage roads and 14 miles of shared-use paths. Update: The William Cannon Drive bypass bridge is closed as crews connect it to the new main lanes and flyovers. Eastbound drivers are being detoured to the Hwy. 290 frontage road; the bridge will reopen for westbound traffic once construction wraps up. • Timeline: William Cannon bridge access closed until 2026
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• Cost: $677 million allocated for the entire project • Funding source: TxDOT Texas Clear Lanes
• Timeline: 2021-26 • Cost: $677 million allocated for the entire project • Funding source: TxDOT Texas Clear Lanes 5 Oak Hill Parkway near Patton Ranch Road Project: The 7-mile stretch of highway has been undergoing a $677 million facelift since 2021. TxDOT is currently reconstructing Hwy. 290 in Oak Hill. Update: The newly constructed Patton Ranch Road near the Hwy. 290 intersection has been raised 8 feet for future flood prevention. • Timeline: 2021-26 • Cost: $677 million allocated for the entire project • Funding source: TxDOT Texas Clear Lanes
Completed projects
4 Oak Hill Parkway near Circle Drive Project: The 7-mile stretch of highway has been undergoing a $677 million facelift since 2021. TxDOT is currently reconstructing Hwy. 290 in Oak Hill, transforming the existing four-lane, undivided roadway to a six-lane divided highway with new frontage roads and 14 miles of shared-use paths. Update: Crews recently performed concrete grinding along the Hwy. 290 mainlanes near Circle Drive, resulting in a newly leveled surface that makes the ride smoother for drivers.
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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION
Events
BY DACIA GARCIA
November
Rockin' Around the Rooftops Holiday Bar Crawl
Five Austin bars are collaborating to throw Austin’s third annual Rockin' Around the Rooftops Holiday Bar Crawl. Participants can start the crawl at Upstairs at Caroline, Azul Rooftop, Otopia, Edge Rooftop or Zanzibar. Guests who get their crawl card punched by all five bars will earn a $50 promo card, valid at any of the participating bars.
• Nov. 19-Dec. 28 • Free (admission) • 109 E. Seventh Street, Austin • www.rockinaroundtherooftops.com
'A Christmas Carol' The Zach Theater is hosting a production of "A Christmas Carol," based on the story by Charles Dickens. • Nov. 19-Jan. 3, show times vary • $46-$127 • 202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.zachtheater.org Oh What Fun! Austin Holiday Market The Oh What Fun! market offers locals a place to shop for holiday gifts and seasonal treats in Central Austin. In addition to a selection of local vendors, the market will also feature a festive-themed cocktail lounge. • Nov. 20-Dec. 24, times vary • Free (admission) Western Wonderland Featuring a trail of lights with popular holiday characters, a holiday market and ice skating, community members can kick off the Christmas season with the park’s range of festive activities. • Nov. 28-Jan. 4, times vary • Free (admission) • Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 Event Center Drive, Dripping Springs • www.drippingspringsranchpark.com/ westernwonderland • 422 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.ohwhatfunatx.com
Zilker Tree Lighting The 155-foot tree’s 3,909 lights will come to life right after Thanksgiving on Nov. 30. Attendees can look forward to live music, entertainment and food.
• Nov. 30, 5:15 p.m. • Free • Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin • www.austintexas.gov/department/ zilker-holiday-tree
‘Tis the Season 2025 Holiday Market Community members can shop for Christmas presents at the market, which will showcase over 30 vendors selling a variety of items made by local artists. • Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • 12919 Nutty Brown Road, Austin • www.austincraftlounge.com/upcoming-events Cocoa and Cuddles with Santa Attendees can enjoy a complimentary hot chocolate while taking pictures with baby goats and Santa Claus in The Hive’s backyard. • Dec. 13, 4-5:30 p.m. • $14 (ages 3-16 admission); $20 (adult admission) • The Hive, 10542 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.goatshenanigans.com/event-details/cocoa-and- cuddles-with-santa-austin-2 Tio Toto Live The interactive kid-music event will take place at Cherrywood Coffeehouse. Featuring bubbles and a banana piano, the event listing says it is for toddlers, preschoolers and the adults who love them. • Dec. 21, 10-11 a.m. • Free • 1400 E 38th ½ Street, Austin • www.tiototo.com
• Free (ages 2 and under); $13-$20 (ages 3-12); $23-$30 (ages 13 and up) • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave., Austin • www.wildflower.org/luminations Christmas on Mercer The 21st annual event will include arts and crafts, business booths, photo ops and more. • Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Downtown Dripping Springs • www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/christmasonmercer Christmas Bazaar & Festival The church will celebrate the Christmas holiday with an over 20-vendor market, food trucks, cookies, hot cocoa, a visit from Santa Claus, a bounce house and crafts.
December
• Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • Southwest Christian Church, 10500 Old Manchaca Road, Austin • Eventbrite: Christmas Bazaar & Festival
Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' Bass Concert Hall is putting on a 30th anniversary production of Disney’s "Beauty and the Beast." The show has a 2.5-hour run time and features an Oscar- winning score. • Dec. 2-14, show times vary • $36-$180 • 2350 Robert Dedman Drive, Austin • www.texasperformingarts.org Luminations Community members can enjoy winter lights across the center’s Central Gardens as well as immersive projections, holiday-themed cocktails and more. • Dec. 5-Jan. 3, 5:45-7:45 p.m. (entry times)
Christmas at the Pound House The museum will bring together the community with wagon rides, photos with Santa Claus, food vendors, games, crafts, live music, a petting zoo and unique gift vendors. • Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • $5 (9 years and younger advance tickets); $10 (10 years and older advance tickets); $6 (9 years and younger at-the-door tickets); $12 (10 years and older at-the-door tickets) • The Pound House, 419-B Founders Park Road, Dripping Springs • www.phfmuseum.org/christmas-at-the-pound- house-2025
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION
BRODIE LANE 4970 W Hwy 290 (512) 366-8260
BEE CAVE 13015 Shops Pkwy (512) 263-9981
DRIPPING SPRINGS 166 Hargraves (512) 432-0186 DRIPPING SPRINGS SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 S I-35 Frontage Rd (512) 280-7400
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Nonprofit Volunteer guide
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
This list is not comprehensive.
Any Baby Can The nonprofit provides child development, family health and parent support services in Austin and surrounding counties. • Sample activities: at-home projects like making developmental tools for kids and creating decorations for client celebrations; hands-on help at seasonal family events and fundraisers; custom volunteer experiences for corporate, school, and community groups • Donations accepted: monetary donations accepted online; sponsorship opportunities; in-kind donations accepted on a case-by-case basis • 6207 Sheridan Ave., Austin • www.anybabycan.org/get-involved Austin Parks Foundation For 33 years, APF has partnered with the community to improve public parks, trails and green spaces through volunteerism, innovative programming, advocacy and financial support. Since the nonprofit’s inception in 1992, APF has invested more than $85 million into Austin parks. • Sample activities: mulching, litter cleanup, invasive species removal • Donations accepted: monetary donations • 1023 Springdale Road, Austin • www.austinparks.org Austin Pets Alive The nonprofit animal rescue organization is dedicated to saving companion animals most at risk of euthanasia. APA has helped 130,000 pets since 2008 by saving them from euthanasia, providing care and finding them loving homes. • Sample activities: dog walking, dog and cat care, shelter support, fostering, assisting in the medical clinic, marketing, events and data entry • Donations accepted: monetary gifts and pet supplies • 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin • www.austinpetsalive.org Council on At-Risk Youth (CARY Kids) CARY’s mission is to empower at-risk youth with skills to avoid crime and violence. • Sample activities: one-time opportunity as a Program Support Volunteer supporting planning an event or program or a Campus Support Volunteer to help with needs such as acquiring donated snacks or food, dropping off items at the campus, helping to celebrate CARY graduations, and supporting service learning projects and field trips • Donations accepted: monetary gifts or sponsorships • 3710 Cedar St., Box 23, Austin • www.cary4kids.org Dripping Springs Community Library DSCL is a special district library, funded by a portion of local sales tax revenue rather than property taxes. The library provides access to over 72,000 materials, including books, e-books, audiobooks, DVDs, CDs and magazines.
• Sample activities: homeschool teacher, college and career readiness counselor, Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Master, event assistant • Donations accepted: monetary contributions • 501 Sportsplex Drive, Dripping Springs • www.dscl.org Health Alliance for Austin Musicians The nonprofit provides access to affordable health care for low-income, working musicians, DJs and music teachers by offering a range of services, including dental, vision, hearing and mental health care. The team also helps members navigate the health care system. • Sample activities: event support, information tabling, donation collecting, selling merchandise, administrative work, material delivery • Donations accepted: monetary donations • 3036 S. First St., Austin • www.myhaam.org LifeWorks The local nonprofit is dedicated to solving youth homelessness through housing, mental health, education and workforce services. Each year, the nonprofit partners with more than 2,500 youth to build pathways to safety, stability and opportunity. • Sample activities: ongoing support opportunities include assisting with daily operations at the Youth Resource Center such as organizing supplies, providing administrative support and creating a welcoming environment, holiday program opportunities include Austin Zoo The rescue zoo cares for neglected, abused and abandoned animals and helps them find forever homes. • Sample activities: raking habitat yards, groundskeeping tasks, picking up trash, cleaning up the grounds • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, gift cards, supplies, tools • 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin • www.austinzoo.org
unloading, sorting, organizing holiday gifts for clients and their families • Donations accepted: in-kind food donations • 835 N. Pleasant Valley Road, Austin • www.lifeworksaustin.org Marbridge Foundation The nonprofit residential community offers transitional care to adults with cognitive disabilities, providing them with opportunities to learn and gain new experiences. • Sample activities: bingo, Special Olympics, mentors, in-classroom helpers, outings, group projects • Donations accepted: monetary donations, in-kind donations, giving tree gifts, wishlist items • 2310 Bliss Spillar Road, Manchaca • www.marbridge.org Meals on Wheels Central Texas The nonprofit works to help homebound and older adults age in place through home delivered meals as well as programs such as Senior Lunch Centers or the PALS program that assists seniors with pet food and veterinary care. • Sample activities: Meal delivery, grocery delivery, pet to vet transport, office help • Donations accepted: monetary contributions • 3227 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.mowctx.org Foster Village The organization’s mission is to provide support for children and families experiencing foster care. • Sample activities: organizing clothing and supplies, assisting with child care during gatherings and trainings, delivering items to families • Donations accepted: monetary contributions and donations of new children’s clothing and shoes • 15400 Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs; 10545 Dessau Road, Austin • www.fostervillageaustin.org
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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION
Nonprofit
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Central Texas Food Bank The hunger-relief nonprofit works to provide access to food for individuals throughout its 21-county service area. • Sample activities: preparing after school meals, sorting products in the warehouse and harvesting produce in the garden, assisting with one of the 40 mobile pantry distributions • Donations accepted: financial and food donations
wraparound services. The organization has helped more than 5,000 households move into supportive housing and serves more than 10,000 people each year. • Sample activities: sorting donations, assembling hygiene kits, making first aid kits, hanging clothing, serving in the cafe • Donations accepted: monetary and in-kind gifts • 4430 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.sunrisenavigationcenter.org Swan Songs Swan Songs gifts private concerts to individuals near the end of life. These intimate “musical last wishes” concerts are held in health care facilities or private homes, and are often attended by family, loved ones, and caregivers. • Sample activities: concert liaison, event volunteer, RED Arena RED Arena aims to empower individuals with disabilities with equine therapy. The team provides adaptive horseback riding lessons, physical and occupational therapy, educational programs and vocational training.
• Sample activities: care for horses, clean the barn, side-walk in riding sessions, help in the gift shop • Donations accepted: monetary donations, gift cards, auction items January-March • 2435 W. Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs • www.redarena.org
• 6500 Metropolis Drive, Austin • www.centraltexasfoodbank.org
outreach volunteer, administrative volunteer • Donations accepted: monetary donations • 2101 S. I-35, Ste. 219, Austin • www.swansongs.org
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PAWS Shelter of Central Texas The no-kill shelter supports homeless, abused and abandoned dogs and cats in Hays County. • Sample activities: walking dogs, cuddling dogs, cuddling cats, taking dogs on day trips, helping with laundry and cleaning, landscaping, maintenance • Donations accepted: monetary donations, in-kind donations such as Purina One dog food, cat litter, cleaning supplies, paper towels, blankets or crates • 2965 FM 165, Dripping Springs; 500 FM 150 East, Kyle • www.pawsshelter.org
The SIMS Foundation The foundation provides mental health and substance use recovery services to musicians, those working in the music industry and their dependents. The SIMS Foundation offers education and accessible care through community partnerships. • Sample activities: graphic design, photography, office work, help at live events • Donations accepted: monetary donations • 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin • www.simsfoundation.org
Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center Sunrise offers pathways to housing for people experiencing homelessness through access to
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