Bastrop - Cedar Creek Edition | April 2026

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Bastrop Cedar Creek Edition VOLUME 3, ISSUE 2 APRIL 30MAY 28, 2026

Wedding Guide

Road to relief Drivers are navigating construction along SH 71 as TxDOT continues $293M updates

INSIDE

SH 71 East Corridor

183

130 TOLL

Also in this issue

Business updates

Page 7

Cedar Creek data centers Page 12 Learn about a second Bastrop County campus that could be one of the largest in the U.S.

Trac backs up along SH 71 near Tucker Hill Lane as crews continue improvements along the corridor between Bastrop and Austin. (Xorin Aeronautics/Community Impact)

Frontier Cellars pours Texas wines overlooking a 2-acre Smithville lake. See what else it oers.

BASTROP COUNTY, TX • 2025 PROPERTY TAX DATA REPORT • PAID FOR BY OWNWELL

85% of Bastrop County residential properties didn’t protest their 2025 property taxes.

15%

85%

Protested 1

Didn’t Protest 1

7,905 residential properties $2.9M total realized savings in 2025

44,605

residential properties

$8.7M total missed potential savings

Protestors won 65% of the time in Bastrop County1

WHY CHOOSE OWNWELL² 63% 34% 2,680 of Bastrop County residential protested properties chose Ownwell in 2025

IMPORTANT DATES

deadline for current & retroactive homestead exemption applications April 30, 2026 May 15, 2026

Bastrop County 2025 win rate

Bastrop County properties represented by Ownwell in 2025

property tax protest deadline

$744 average annual property tax savings for Ownwell clients in 2025

PROTEST YOUR 2026 PROPERTY TAXES

or visit Ownwell.com/impact to get started today. Enter an address and see how much you’re overpaying →

25%

of your tax bill savings only. No savings? No fee. Guaranteed.

¹ ownwell.com/results/texas-protest-vs-non-protest • ² ownwell.com/insight/austin-area-property-tax-protest-results-agent-performance

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CONNECT WITH US AT CITYOFBASTROP.ORG

1311 Chestnut Street Bastrop, Texas 78602 | 512-332-8800 info@cityofbastrop.org | www.cityofbastrop.org

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

NOW SELLING!

The Lakehouse Pool

BUILD AT THE COLONY NEW HOMES IN BASTROP

The Lakehouse features a resort-style pool, fitness room, indoor event space, and stage for live entertainment Miles of scenic trails, a disc golf course, dog parks, and numerous playscapes and pocket parks throughout the neighborhood Vibrant community minutes from downtown Bastrop Homes from THE MID $400s

LIMITED TIME INCENTIVES! (512) 960-1960

dreeshomes.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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 Jessica McLaren Bailey Meyers Michael Milliorn Jillian Nachtigal Hannah Norton Daniel Schwalm Hamera Shabbir Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss Minh Nguyen Laura Patino 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

16225 Impact Way, Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases basnews@communityimpact.com Advertising basads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

Connect on social

@communityimpactatx

Tap your debit card, and you could win a new vehicle

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

HAWTHORNE ST.

Impacts

INDUSTRIAL BLVD.

150

EDWARD BURLESON LN.

4 7 3

N. MAIN ST.

FISHERMAN'S PARK

290

Elgin

304

HECTOR RD.

150

Del Valle

WALNUTST.

2104

EMILE ST.

153

Smithville

AGNESST.

214

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Bastrop-Cedar Creek

4 PetSmart The American pet retail chain sells food, supplies and accessories, and oers services including grooming and training. • Opened April 18 • Burleson Crossing East, 655 SH 71 W., Ste. 111, Bastrop • www.petsmart.com 5 Hartwell Performance Automotive Mason Stratton oers a variety of services for domestic and imported vehicles inside the former A Plus Automotive building, including oil changes, brake and suspension repairs, diagnostics and more. • Opened April 1 • 301 Industrial Blvd., Bastrop • Facebook: Hartwell Performance Automotive 111

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

Now open

7 Kung Fu Tea Construction on the 1,500-square-foot space began April 20 and is expected to run through June 26. Kung Fu Tea oers freshly brewed, customizable milk teas, including a signature drink made with Earl Grey tea, cane sugar and milk powder. Other options include fruit teas, lemonades, slushes and more. • Burleson Crossing East, 663 SH 71 W., Ste. 107, Bastrop • www.kungfutea.com 111

1 Uptown Cards and Collectibles Force of Will Gaming owners Billy and Dawn McFarland opened a second specialty hobby shop in town, which oers collectible sports and gaming memorabilia. • Opened March 13 • 489 Agnes St., Ste. 104, Bastrop • Facebook: Uptown Cards & Collectibles 2 The Chateau Glow Owner Britney Williams oers custom airbrush tans, face contouring, red light therapy, teeth whitening and more. • Opened March 23 • 191 Hwy. 290, Elgin • www.thechateauglo.com 3 Sprouts The specialty grocery store stocks its shelves with a variety of fresh, regionally grown produce, meat and seafood. • Opened March 6 • Burleson Crossing East, 651 SH 71 W., Ste. 101, Bastrop • www.sprouts.com/store/tx/bastrop/hwy-71-w

Relocations

8 Crawsh KRAK House Owner Kris Martinez moved his Louisiana-style boil rig following the closure of his previous host site at Back 9

Coming soon

Bar, which closed Jan. 20. • Relocated in late February • Santo Patio, 5496 SH 71 E., Del Valle • Facebook: Craw¢ish KRAK House

6 Texas Roadhouse Oers hand-cut steaks, ribs, various scratch-made sides and whipped honey cinnamon butter served with fresh- baked dinner rolls. • Opening in late spring • Sendero, 900 block of SH 71 W., Bastrop • www.texasroadhouse.com

WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. Maela Hughes (512) 999-1445 Maela.Hughes@remax.net BastropSells.com

807 Main St. Bastrop, TX 78602

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

In the news

Now open

9 To The Point Local business owners Grizz and Tana celebrated 10 years of repairing, sharpening and selling cutting tools of all kinds April 11 with forging demonstrations, vendors and live music. To The Point works on blades ranging from knives to lawnmowers, hair clippers and more. • 25 N. Main St., Elgin • www.txknifemakers.com

Closings

10 Relics Artisan Jewelry & Gifts Anne and Richard Smarzik closed the shop in February ahead of their move to the Hill Country, where they plan to open 925 Studio to pay homage to their spot at 925 Main St. Anne Smarzik’s jewelry will be sold on a website the couple plans to launch later this year.

11 MooseBelly BBQ Alicia and Jackson Bolton oer traditional barbecue with a twist, including blueberry-glazed ribs, apricot-rosemary glazed sausages, smoked Gouda and brie brisket macaroni and cheese and more. Customers can also try the signature Purple Sauce—a spicy blueberry-bourbon jam. • Opened April 1 • Chestnut Grove Food Truck Court, 710 Chestnut St., Bastrop • Facebook: MooseBelly BBQ

12 Frontier Cellars Lance and Alysen Bondy oer a tasting room overlooking a two-acre lake at their 73-acre winery. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating at the veteran-owned business, which makes its wines exclusively from Texas-grown grapes. • Opened March 7

• 925 Main St., Bastrop • Facebook: relicsjewelry

• 157 Hector Road, Smithville • www.frontiercellars.com

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!

Preventive Health Care Weight Loss Programs Same-Day Availability Online Scheduling Saturday Clinics & Virtual Visits

Schedule Your Next Appointment! PFPDocs.com

03042026

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Government

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

Bastrop County ESD 3 ahead of schedule Bastrop County Emergency Services District No. 3 is nearly four months ahead of schedule in its yearlong transition away from using vendor Acadian Ambulance. What we know Originally set for October, Allen Johnson, executive director of ESD 3, said delivery of 15 ambulances will begin in June. Johnson said ambulances will be increased from four per day to a maximum of 11. “It is our intent to have eight ambulances, 24 hours a day, with three additional peak trucks,” Johnson said. ESD 3 bought about 4 acres on Jasper Street in 2025 for administrative operations and a central station. Bastrop City Council approved a rezon- ing request for 1811 Jasper St. on April 14 to move the project forward.

What's planned 1 ESD 3 administration, training, logistics: 1.3 acres 2 ESD 3 regional EMS station: 2.6 acres

More Bastrop government news 3 stories we’re following online

1 Bastrop council replaces city development code

Bastrop residents and developers will see future growth shaped by a new set of land-use rules after City Council replaced the city’s development rules with the Bastrop Development Code.

2 Mural planned for South End District in Bastrop

Artists are being sought for a mural on the College Street-SH 71 overpass honoring the heritage of the historically Black neighborhood. Once selected, completion is expected in three to four months. 3 Nearly 90-day burn ban lifted for unincorporated Bastrop County Emergency Management Coordinator James Altgelt said recent rainfall helped lower the risk for wildres. Though the ban is lifted, ocials emphasized that residents should remain cautious when burning outdoors.

Planning is underway for a Bastrop County ESD 3 regional emergency medical services station on Jasper St., Bastrop.

RENDERING COURTESY BASTROP COUNTY ESD 3

Sheri gets enhanced AI facial-recognition tools The Bastrop County Sheri’s O ce now has facial-recognition software that o cials said includes much more than just mugshots. Sheri Maurice Cook said the technology gives investiga- tors another tool to help pursue justice. The overview In a statement online, Clearview AI o cials said they maintain a proprietary database of more

How Clearview AI works

than 70 billion publicly accessible images of faces used alongside the company’s facial recognition technology powered by articial intelligence. The $17,100 Clearview AI licensing agreement was approved by commissioners March 24. County documents show the contract is nanced with forfeiture funds. The agreement took eect April 1 and expires March 31, 2027.

Sheri’s oce uploads an image

Clearview AI searches over 70 billion images and sends back similar faces

Sheri’s oce reviews and determines possible matches

SOURCE: CLEARVIEW AICOMMUNITY IMPACT

The Lodge at Lost Pines Apartment Homes

Fin You Peacefu Retrea I Bastro.

3950 Hwy 71 East, Bastrop, TX | 512-321-5320 | bastroptexasapartments.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

Ongoing project

290

LINDEN ST.

130

290

OLD HWY. 20

COUNTY RD.

ELM ST.

BLAKEY LN.

EDWARD BURLESON LN.

OLD AUSTIN HWY.

CHESTNUT ST.

1 Old Iron Bridge rehabilitation Project: Rehabilitation includes adding stairs, a concrete deck, steel truss components, railing and decorative lights to the historic bridge. Update: eastbound trac began opening intermittently March 5 • Timeline: scheduled to conclude construction in late September • Cost: $9.6 million • Funding source: certiicates of obligation series 2018, 2023 and 2025

130

PERKINS ST.

150

GUTIERREZ ST.

812

183

AGNES ST.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

3 FM 812 enhancements Project: The project would widen 9.5 miles of FM 812 from two undivided lanes to four divided lanes, realign a 1.5-mile stretch between US 183 and FM 973 to eliminate the S-curve, add a shared-use path and sidewalks, improve drainage and upgrade ve bridges. Update: design underway; utility adjustments began in late 2025 • Timeline: 2024-2031 • Cost: $145 million • Funding source: Texas State Highway Fund 4 Highway 21 improvement project Project: Proposed improvements include widening about 7 miles of Hwy. 21 from County Road to Old Highway 20 from two lanes to four lanes with a grassy median and constructing a new bridge over US 290. Update: schematic design and environmental study underway • Timeline: 2024-TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: TBD

Ongoing projects

5 Blakey Lane connection extension Project: The road will be extended from Edward Burleson Lane south to an intersection with roundabout options at Old Austin Highway. Update: Construction to start in May • Timeline: January 2024-January 2029 • Cost: $7 million-$8 million • Funding sources: transportation impact, roadway maintenance, and water and wastewater fees

Upcoming projects

2 US 290 extension Project: The 15-mile extension is expected to reduce congestion by giving drivers an alternative route to the highway through the addition of tolled mainlanes. Update: rst draft of design schematics expected in mid-2026 • Timeline: 2025-TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding sources: Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority internal funds ($21 million, feasibility and design); TBD (construction)

Get back in motion • Fractures & injuries • Steroid injections • On-site x-ray • Total joint replacement • Minimally invasive robotic surgery • All ages seen: children to adults Pain or injury to the back, spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, or leg? ARC Orthopedics offers surgical and non-surgical treatment options to get you back on the right track.

Book now at Orthopedics.ARC.clinic

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Road to relief From the cover

SH 71 East Corridor

Funding the work

Completed

Ongoing

Planned

Led by TxDOT and funded by the Texas Highway Fund, the SH 71 East Corridor project aims to ease trac congestion for drivers between Bastrop and Austin.

130 TOLL

969

Orange barrels and shifting lanes are a daily reality for drivers along SH 71 between Bastrop and Austin, where a 22-mile stretch of improvements is steadily reshaping the corridor—changes Bastrop ocials said will bring long-term relief for motorists. In 2015, the average daily trac on SH 71, just east of SH 130, was more than 50,000 vehicles per day, according to a Texas Department of Transportation trac analysis. By 2022, that count increased to 55,730. “I’ve worked in Austin for going on 22 years,” Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris said during a March 26 business conference. “I’ve traveled up and down SH 71 throughout that time, and that gave me a big perspective and understanding of the impact of people moving to our area. I’m seeing so much trac.” He recounted his drive to work at 4:45 a.m. and his drive back to Bastrop about three hours later. “I took a picture on my way back from Austin because for 2 miles all you could see was

TUCKER HILL LN.

Total: $293M

Tucker Hill Lane: $58.5M

KELLAM RD.

POPE BEND RD.

ROSS RD.

Pope Bend Road: $62.5M

1209

Ross Road and Kellam Road: $70M

812

FM 1209: $102M

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION¢COMMUNITY IMPACT

• FM 1209 “We’ve been waiting for that a really long time,” Precinct 2 Commissioner Clara Beckett said. Jerey Barker, a representative for TxDOT, said each is nanced through the Texas State Highway Fund.

headlights,” Harris said. TxDOT projects aimed at alleviating that congestion as part of the SH 71 East Corridor improvements include: • Tucker Hill Lane • Ross Road and Kellam Road • Pope Bend Road

Tucker Hill Lane

Ross Road and Kellam Road

What's planned at Tucker Hill The signalized intersection at Tucker Hill Lane will be replaced with the following: 1 Expanded bicycle and pedestrian mobility An overpass at the existing intersection New one-way frontage roads

TxDOT broke ground Oct. 28, 2025, on a $58.5 million project that will add a

TxDOT completed the rst of the four planned projects along the corridor in September 2024. The $70 million, 2.5-mile Ross Road and Kellam Road project started in February 2021, according to TxDOT ocials. Changes to the Ross and Kellam roads por- tion of SH 71 included new overpasses, new frontage roads for enhanced access to local businesses and homes, and the expansion of bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

grade-separated overpass and one-way frontage roads east- and westbound to an existing signal- ized intersection at Tucker Hill Lane and SH 71. Texas-based Jordan Foster Construction is completing the project, which is scheduled to wrap up construction in fall 2028, according to TxDOT ocials. “What makes projects like these especially meaningful for our team is that they’re personal,” John Goodrich, president of Infrastructure Group at Jordan Foster Construction, said in a statement. “Many of our employees live in these neighbor- hoods or commute on these roads.” He stressed that building something new that didn’t exist before isn’t just about infrastructure, but also about improving people’s lives. “We prioritize being a good neighbor throughout construction by minimizing disruptions, com- municating openly, and delivering a project that reects the pride and care we bring to every job,” Goodrich said. The project—near Circle K and McDonald’s along the westbound lanes of SH 71—will feature expanded accommodations for bicycles and pedestrians.

STOP

Ross and Kellam project details

STOP

Timeline: February 2021-September 2024

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY IMPACT

Distance: 2.5 miles

“Based on recent coordination with TxDOT, the current phase of construction in this area includes ongoing bridge and overpass work, shifting trac patterns, and intermittent lane closures that are expected to continue through upcoming project phases,” said Dana Platt, community engagement coordinator of the Capital Area Rural Transporta- tion System.

Construction cost: $70 million

Contractor: Zachry Construction Corp.

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

TxDOT’s project breakdown for Pope Bend and FM 1209

Pope Bend Road and FM 1209

The road ahead

2017

TxDOT ocials said timing adjustments are being made at signalized intersections, but short-term disruptions are ongoing. Allen Johnson, executive director of Bastrop County Emergency Services District No. 3, said he believes construction could have a negative impact on his team’s response capabilities—especially in the western portions of Bastrop County. “Long term, the construction improvements will have a positive impact,” he said. “Everyone understands the necessity for it to be improved to keep up with the ongoing growth.” Once completed, Platt said the team anticipates improved trac ¢ow and reduced bottlenecks, more consistent and predictable travel times, and enhanced reliability for daily Bastrop County commuters traveling to and from Austin.

The last two TxDOT projects to be completed include Pope Bend Road and FM 1209. The scope of both projects includes: • Overpass at the Pope Bend intersection • One-way frontage roads within the project limits • Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations The project requires 9.49 acres of right of way, including 2.1 acres in McKinney Roughs Nature Park—a property subject to Chapter 26 of the Parks and Wildlife Code, which requires TxDOT to show there is no feasible alternative and to minimize harm before the project can move forward. The anticipated bid opening date is in October for the Pope Bend Road project and 2030 for FM 1209, and several area residents are eager to see the SH 71 East Corridor projects near completion. “The construction on 71 is atrocious and danger- ous for anyone moving,” said Eva Bea, who lives on Wolf Lane near the construction. “Being on SH 71 is the scariest part of my day.”

Phase 1 - Completed

Constraints analysis and development of conceptual roadway design alternatives

2018

2019

Phase 2 - Completed Environmental study and schematic design

2020

2021

2022

2023

Phase 3 - Ongoing

2024

Final design, right-of-way acquisition and utility adjustments

2025

2026

Phase 4 - Upcoming

Construction

2027

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY IMPACT

TEXAS SUMMER IS NEAR A great and easy way to help conserve water ahead of the hot months is by planting Texas Native Plants. Follow us on FB and Instagram to see our Texas Native Plants series! aquawatersupplycorp Aqua Water Supply

We have evolved from the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce to the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce!

A NEW NAME. A NEW LOOK. A BIGGER VISION. Still the Voice of Business.

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Development

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

A 15-acre mixed-use project planned along Lovers Lane broke ground in early 2026. Texas State Business Park will oer a variety of spaces between 2,000 and 20,000 square feet, accommodating a variety of uses, including: • Retail • Ofice • Warehouse • Flex David Alexander, principal for project developer Newcor, said Bastrop was chosen due to the area’s continued growth. New retail, oce spaces set for Lovers Lane

Construction on a $1.4 billion data center campus is underway in Cedar Creek, and the developer is already eyeing a second spot. “This would be one of the largest data center campuses in the United States, if not the globe,” said Evan Pierce, vice president of site development for EdgeConneX. During a March 26 Bastrop business networking event, Pierce shared that the second data center campus will sit on a 180-acre property adjacent to the rst at 6682 FM 535, Cedar Creek. The rst data center campus, a 130-acre devel- opment, will take between ve and eight years to complete and span 2.8 million square feet, as reported by Community Impact in December 2024. Second Cedar Creek data center could ll 180 acres

What’s next?

“I had told [EdgeConneX], ‘If you guys ever decide to do another project ... before

Data center 1

Data center 2

Developers with Newcor said they expect Texas State Business Park to bring jobs, services and long-term economic opportunity to Bastrop as it continues to evolve. The rst phase of the project should be completed in the nal quarter of 2026. “We are proud to help bring a development that will create opportunity and lasting value for the Bastrop community." DAVID ALEXANDER, NEWCOR PRINCIPAL

you go anywhere else, give us an opportunity.” DAVID GLASS, PRECINCT 4 COMMISSIONER

301

535

OAK RIVER DR.

Texas State Business Park will oer spots ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 square feet for retail, oce, warehouse and ex spaces.

The rst of four buildings on that campus, located at the northeast corner of FM 535 and Wolf Lane in Cedar Creek, is scheduled to be completed in June, according to a ling with the Texas Depart- ment of Licensing and Regulation. The two-story data center facility, which began construction in August 2025, will cost $440 million to build out its 578,000 square feet, according to the ling. Bastrop County Commissioners Court awarded EdgeConneX a 10-year property tax abatement for the rst data center campus during a December 2024 meeting that is projected to generate millions

Construction on the rst EdgeConneX data center campus is underway in Cedar Creek. A second campus would ll 180 acres just east of the rst.

Existing storage facility, not part of the new development

MATTHEW BROOKSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

of dollars for Bastrop ISD, Bastrop County and emergency services districts. “We were collecting $25,000 worth of property taxes on that raw land out there annually,” Glass said for comparison. Glass said he anticipates commissioner discus- sions will start “soon.”

Texas State Business Park

Stronger spines . Brighter futures .

When your child is facing scoliosis, you want excellence and innovation in pediatric spinecare. At Dell Children’s, we combine leading-edge surgical techniques with compassionate, child-centered care — so your child can stand taller, move freely, and get back to being a kid. Smaller incisions. Faster recovery. Lifelong results.

Schedule a consultation for your child today — and take the first step toward a healthier future.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Development

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Cost: $256,615

Cost: $661,253

AUSTIN ST.

WILLOW ST.

EMILE ST.

A R M S T .

I V

Fireman’s Park Update: Select areas were under construction March 9-April 13. 600 Hill St., Bastrop

Fisherman’s Park Update: Restricted access will be in place around the splash pad parking lot through May 18. 1200 Willow St., Bastrop

City of Bastrop ocials hosted groundbreaking ceremonies at four playgrounds March 14.

$2.9M city playground upgrades underway Bastrop families should have four refreshed playgrounds to choose from just in time for summer break. Bastrop ocials held groundbreak- ing ceremonies March 14 and said all updates are expected to be nished by the week of May 18. Bastrop City Manager Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino said the upgrades each feature something special, including: • An all-abilities playground, splash pad and pavilion at Minerva Delgado Park • A renovated splash pad at Fisherman’s Park • New playgrounds at Fireman’s Park and Mayfest Park

Cost: $250,048

Cost: $1.7M

LAUREL ST.

AMERICAN LEGION DR.

150

Mayfest Park Update: Select areas were under construction March 9-April 13. 25 American Legion Drive, Bastrop

Minerva Delgado Park Update: The park is closed through May 18. 709 Laurel St., Bastrop

Proud to support the neighborhood

Protecting You, Your Business & Your Family Call Us Today! 512-409-3342 ringelbrymerlaw.com 715 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, TX 78602

Lori Tuggle ChFC® CLU® Agent 815 Highway 71 W Unit D

Bastrop. TX 78602-3591 Bus: 512-581-3939 www.lorituggleagency.com

State Farm Bloomington, IL

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Community

Wedding Guide Welcome to the Bastrop County wedding guide. With fall marking one of Central Texas’ busiest wedding seasons, this guide highlights local, budget- friendly and unique venues and vendors for Bastrop County couples preparing to walk down the aisle. Whether searching for a rustic backdrop, an intimate venue or local services, this guide oers a starting point for planning close to home.

2026

Bastrop wedding market snapshot

144 average guest count 532 weddings yearly $17,864 median wedding cost $17.6M estimated annual wedding market value

Bastrop County Courthouse Gazebo Couples can hold free ceremonies at the courthouse gazebo just outside the Precinct 1 oce.

Where to go Marriage licenses are issued through the Bastrop County Clerk, while courthouse wedding options are coordinated through Bastrop County justice of the peace oces. 1 Bastrop County Clerk (Marriage licenses) 803 Pine St., Room 112, Bastrop 2 Bastrop County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1 (Ceremonies) 804 Pecan St., Bastrop 3 Bastrop County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2 (Ceremonies) 1624 N.E. Loop 230, Smithville

Marriage license steps

Visit the County Clerk

Did you know? An 8-hour Twogether in Texas premarital course cuts the license fee to $22 and waives the 72-hour wait. www.twogetherintexas.com

BLUE BONNET CIR.

Bring IDs and pay $81

Bastrop

230

Wait 72 hours

Smithville

Get married within 90 days and return the license within 30 days of the ceremony

WALNUTST.

SOURCES: CITY OF BASTROP, BASTROP COUNTY, THE WEDDING REPORT, TWOGETHER IN TEXAS, ZOLA¡COMMUNITY IMPACT

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

Babylon is fallen, fallen. Come out of her my people.

Sponsored by Bastrop Seventh-day Adventist Church 3300 Highway 21 East • Bastrop, TX 78602

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JESSICA MCLAREN

Bastrop County wedding venues

Smithville

From rustic ranches and historic charm to garden backdrops and scenic views, Bastrop County couples have a range of local wedding venue options to consider leading up to the “I do.”

Smithville

RoseBridge Estate Services: in-house bar, indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, private suites, signature bridge aisle Capacity: 300 • 711 Old Antioch Road, Smithville • www.rosebridgeestate.com

Red Ridge Receptions Services: bridal suites, indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, micro weddings Capacity: 125

• 306 KLBJ Road, Smithville • www.redridgereceptions.com

Willow Riverside Retreat and Event Center Services: bridal suite, groom’s prep room, indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, lodging Capacity: 160

Bastrop

Smithville

Shiraz Garden Services: bridal suites, indoor and outdoor wedding spaces Capacity: 225

Golden Pine Village Capacity: 500 Services: bridal suite, indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, lodging, wedding coordination • 2384 TX-304, Smithville • www.goldenpinevillage.com

• 1405 Willow St., Bastrop • www.willowriverside.com

• 240 Johnson Road, Bastrop • www.shirazgardentx.com

Cedar Creek

This list is not comprehensive.

The Mansion at ColoVista Services: in-house vendors, indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, lodging, wedding coordinators Capacity: 275

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa Services: indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, micro weddings, resort lodging, wedding planning Capacity: 1,000 • 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road, Cedar Creek • www.lostpinesresortandspa.com/wedding

• 100 Country Club Drive, Bastrop • www.themansionatcolovista.com

Home on 2+ acres with guest house—minutes from groceries & shopping

Barbara Allbright, Realtor All City Real Estate 512-921-6350 BastropHomes@gmail.com BastropFarmandHome.com

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Business

BY JOEL VALLEY

Brenda Abbott Floral Design keeps Bastrop weddings blooming Brenda Abbott Floral Design, a locally owned studio just outside of downtown Bastrop, treats oral arrangements as works of art—part of a full-service approach that has helped the busi- ness build a reputation for weddings and events across Central Texas and beyond. About the business Owners Brenda and Scott Abbott combine years of experience with a keen eye for color, texture and seasonal blooms to create designs that bring their clients’ vision to life. It has been a business model since their rst customers in 2001. “Our Bastrop production facility is unparal- leled,” said Brenda Abbott, who harvests their owers locally. The husband and wife duo—who noted they enjoy each day’s creativity—said they are the preferred vendor at a variety of venues, such as Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Cedar Creek, Texas Old Town Event Venue in Kyle and Red Ridge Receptions in Smithville. Also of note Brenda Abbott Floral Design takes appoint- ments and also accepts walk-in customers during its regular business hours of 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-noon Saturday. “We strive to make your event a ‘wow’ that everyone talks about,” Scott Abbott said in a social media post.

Brenda Abbott Floral Design helps couples bring their wedding vision to life with custom bouquets, ceremony arrangements and reception orals.

From intimate ceremonies to larger receptions, Brenda Abbott Floral Design oers owers tailored to each event.

COURTESY BRENDA ABBOTT FLORAL DESIGN

COURTESY WEDDINGWIRE

1914 Main. St., Bastrop www.brendaabbott.net

Brenda Abbott Floral Design has helped decorate weddings for 25 years in Bastrop County and beyond.

COURTESY BRENDA ABBOTT FLORAL DESIGN

YOUR NEW PLACE TO CALL HOME.

Learn More

1006 Home Depot Way | Bastrop, TX | 512-270-7239

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Electronic tags from across Texas and other states are accepted on Mobility Authority Roadways. Electronic Tags Travel Well

Save 33% on tolls: MobilityAuthority.com/tags

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Events

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Touch-ATruck Children can chat with o©cials while exploring ¤re trucks, police vehicles, construction equipment and more. Other activities will include entertainment from Ms. Poppy the Clown and a showing of “Wall-E” at dusk. Attendees can browse local vendors and purchase snacks throughout the event. • May 16, 6 p.m.-dark • Free (admission) • Bob Bryant Park, 600 Charles Blvd., Bastrop • Facebook: City of Bastrop Parks and Recreation

Lost Pines Art Center Spring Gala Lost Pines Art Center’s annual gala supports the center’s arts ongoing programming and new initiatives. The center serves as a serves as a gallery, classroom and community arts venue, with rotating exhibits, art classes, workshops, events and more. Admission to the gallery is free. • May 17, 2-5 p.m. • $125 (admission) • Lost Pines Art Center, 1204 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.lostpinesartcenter.org/gala

Bastrop Pride Street Fair Area vendors will ¤ll Bastrop’s Main Street, between Spring and Chestnut streets, to celebrate Pride month. The nonpro¤t works to provide resources to local members of the LGBT community, their families and allies.

• June 5, 5-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Downtown Bastrop, Main Street • www.bastroppride.org

• May 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • Community Gardens, 1067 SH 71, Bastrop • www.cgbastrop.com/event-details/ mothers-day-pop-up-show-2026

• May 30, 8 a.m.-noon • $65 (registration, adults); $25 (registration, kids up to age 13) • Fisherman’s Park, 1200 Willow St., Bastrop • Facebook: Texas Public Safety Training Academy

April

Family Nature Quest Families can join guided nature-play activities at McKinney Roughs Nature Park in Cedar Creek. • Through May 31, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • $10 (admission per person) • McKinney Roughs Nature Park, 1884 SH 71 W., Cedar Creek • www.lcraparks.com/activities/family-nature-quest

“Pu s” Directed by Kelsey Layton, the adults-only, “Harry Potter”-inspired comedy runs Fridays through Sundays. • May 22-June 7 • $25 (admission) • Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St., Bastrop • www.bastropoperahouse.org/upcoming-shows/puffs First Due 5K The top three ¤rst responders to ¤nish will receive scholarships for public safety training in Bastrop County. Supporters are also welcome to join the 5K.

June

Chalk Our Walk The community can decorate the sidewalk in front of the Bastrop museum with drawings representing things they love about the area. Chalk supplies will be available.

May

• June 5, 5-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • Bastrop County Museum & Visitor Center, 904 Main St., Bastrop • www.bastropcountyhistoricalsociety.com/ upcoming-events

Mother’s Day Pop-Up Show 2026 Community Gardens will host a Mother’s Day pop-up with plants and local vendors in Bastrop.

Large Enough for Real Insurance, Small Enough for Real Service

+ +

$0 tuition at Austin Community College (ACC). High school graduates from the class of 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027 & 2028 in ACC’s service area may qualify.

Let us help you protect what matters most to you

No income restrictions. No GPA requirements.

Santana G. & Apollo F.

Connect with us today insurance4texas.com 512-303-3008

LEARN MORE & APPLY FOR FREE AT austincc.edu/freetuition

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Homes under contract jumped across the Bastrop-Cedar Creek market in March, despite a dip in closed sales, according to Unlock MLS data. Residential market data

Average days on market

Number of homes sold

+35.4%

-14.3%

-12.3%

-57.9%

March 2025

March 2026

78602

78612

78602

78612

Median home sales price

78602

March

2025

2026

304

78612

$366,347

$381,990

78602

+4.3%

Market data March

$520,000

$511,245

2025

2026

78612

-1.7%

86 63

Closed sales

140 124

New listings

Homes sold by price point in March 2026

Homes under contract Total dollar volume Price per square foot

54 89

78602

78612

Total

1 1

$39.4M $39.7M

$900,000+

3 5

4 7

$206 $207

$700,000-$899,999

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 5124547636 WWW.ABOR.COM

<$300,000

N E

Nestled in the Lost Pines by Bastrop, The Colony o ers quick access to Austin with charm of small-town living. Be sure to check out our amenities including pools, pocket parks, fitness centers, and miles of trails. THIS SPRING AT THE COLONY: NEW BUILDERS & MODELS! AMAZING BUILDER SPECIALS! HUGE SELECTION OF AVAILABLE HOMES!

THE AUSTIN ALTERNATIVE COLONYTX.COM FROM THE MID $300s TO $1M+ 10 BUILDERS

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

PANAMA ROSE Vintage & Antique Shop, Turns One! Thank you, Bastrop County & Austin friends, for a wonderful first year! We honor Omayra, the Panamanian rose who inspired our name and our love of timeless treasures.

10% OFF One regularly priced item Exp: May 29, 2026 ENJOY 10% OFF one special item this month! Expires: Dec 31, 2025

216 Main Street • Smithville, TX | PanamaRoseAntiques.com

YOUR SKIN CALLED… IT WANTS TO BE SUMMER-READY

home Guide Coming Soon! Community Impact’s

$150 OFF PROCELL MICROCHANNELING Limited appointments available. Call or Text for Your Complimentary Consultation. Expires: May 29, 2026 MAY SPECIAL and stimulate collagen — for healthier-looking skin without looking overdone (and virtually zero downtime). If your skin looks and feels dull, uneven, or less smooth than it used to, now is the time to refresh it before summer. Procell Microchanneling helps improve skin texture Smoother. Brighter. Healthier-looking skin–naturally.

Scan, call 512.989.1000 or email ads@communityimpact.com Promote your business:

NICOLE JOHNSON

1002 Chestnut St., Bastrop | (512) 898-9990 hello@sacredfacesalon.com • www.sacredfacesalon.com BASTROP COUNTY’S TRUSTED ADVANCED AESTHETICS STUDIO

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

120 years of Roscoe State Bank means 120 years of community, and we're celebrating by giving back all year long. Each month, we're awarding $1,200 to a deserving nonprofit right here in Bastrop County. Some winners have already been randomly selected, but the giving is just getting started. Keep nominating, keep following along, and help us recognize the organizations making a difference in our own backyard. Our anniversary wish? Supporting local charities, but we need your help!

Scan here to nominate a local nonprofit and learn more about our monthly winners.

@MyRoscoeBank

@RoscoeBankTX

Roscoe Bank, a Division of Cornerstone Capital Bank, SSB. Member FDIC. NMLS ID #2258. No purchase or account required to submit a nomination. Visit www.rsb.bank/120th-anniversary-giveback for nonprofit eligibility, how to enter, and full details.

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12-13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24

communityimpact.com