North Central Austin Edition | November 2023

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North Central Austin Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 8 DEC. 1DEC. 27, 2023

APD Lt. Lee Davis embraces Raasin McIntosh, vice president of active urbanism for the Downtown Austin Alliance, at an Oct. 23 event one month after APD implemented added safety measures downtown.

COURTESY DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE

Austin police embrace local business owners’ call for security

BY KATY MCAFEE

due to understang, Austin Police Department ocials unveiled a new plan in late September to increase patrols downtown.

really escalated these last few years,” Wild About Music CEO Teghan Hahn said. “And it’s not just the stealing, it’s the aggression of the people who are committing the crimes.” After years of struggling to respond to these calls

Just a few blocks away from the Texas Capitol, many local business owners said they have felt a rise in shoplifting, vandalism and aggressive clientele. “It’s always been a struggle downtown, but it has

CONTINUED ON 20

Also in this issue

Impacts: Rooftop pickleball courts open in downtown (Page 8)

Transportation: Self-driving car operations on pause (Page 13)

Events: Watch ‘The Nutcracker’ this holiday season (Page 23)

Guide: Check out dozens of volunteer opportunities (Page 25)

Check your current bill for your billing cycle and find out when your wastewater averaging period starts and ends. THE WASTEWATER AVERAGING PERIOD IS ABOUT TO BEGIN!

The readings for wastewater averaging are taken over the course of three winter months. They line up with seasonal low water use, when most households naturally cut back on outdoor water use.

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In-person events: Nov 16, Dec 5 & 6 Virtual event: Dec 13

If you live, work, or play in Austin, the Austin Transit Partnership wants to see the city from your perspective. Show us how you move, whether you use the bus or train, walk, scoot, or roll, and what you love about your neighborhood. Maybe it’s your favorite park, school, library, restaurant, or shop. Your perspective will shape mobility and neighborhood improvements across the city.

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SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE: www.atptx.org/events

Translation is available in English & Spanish for all events. For translations in other languages, contact us by email at input@atptx.org or phone at 512-389-7590.

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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. About Community Impact

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Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Zara Flores Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia

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Impacts

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

NORTH AUSTIN

Relocations

In the news

2 Workshop No. 5 Austin-based Workshop No. 5 relocated from North Lamar Boulevard to Woodrow Avenue in September. With a focus on upcycling and using sustainable construction practices, Austin resident Bhavani Singal started the architectural design firm to offer architecture and interior design services for residential, commercial and community projects. • Relocated Sept. 18 • 5409 Woodrow Ave., Unit C, Austin • www.workshopno5.com 3 Objets Owned by Austinite Sandy Sieracki, the wholesale furniture showroom recently held a grand reopening celebration after relocating a half-mile away from its original spot at 7301 Burnet Road, Austin. Objets caters to professionals such as residential and commercial designers, architects, and building project specifiers. • Relocated Oct. 26 • 6513 Burnet Lane, Austin • www.objetsltd.com 4 Path Salon After 16 years at 3100 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 2C, local owner Ryan Driggers closed the hair salon’s South Austin shop and relocated to North Austin at 6101 Balcones Drive, Ste. 101. Path Salon offers a range of services, including haircuts, coloring, extensions, blowouts and updos, in addition to hair care products by Kevin Murphy and Oribe. • Relocated Oct. 24 • 3100 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 2C, Austin • www.pathsalon.com

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addition, the store offers watch and jewelry repair along with appraisal services. • 5011 Burnet Road, Ste. 100, Austin • www.kormanfinejewelry.com 7 My Coding Place The coding-based studio opened by locals Fahd and Amy Pirzada celebrated its fifth anniversary in October. My Coding Place aims to foster creative analytics skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for individuals age 7 and older . Staff members do this through classes, such as programming, chess, 6 Cover 3 Owners Matthew Dodson and Doug Young celebrated the scratch kitchen’s 15-year anniversary Nov. 11. Cover 3 Anderson Lane offers a take on American bar cuisine with menu options such as the brick chicken macaroni and cheese made with Italian spices, chicken and pancetta; and the half-pound, freshly ground chophouse burger with longhorn cheddar and applewood smoked bacon. • 2700 W. Anderson Lane, Ste. 202, Austin • www.cover-3.com

290

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North Central

Now open

1 VCA Animal Hospitals Urgent Care-North Austin The urgent care pet hospital provides same-day and next-day veterinary care seven days a week—including holidays. Additionally, VCA offers a 24/7 teletriage option staffed by a team of on-call veterinary technicians who can advise whether an urgent care trip or emergency room is necessary. • Opened Sept. 7 • 8820 Burnet Road, Ste. 400, Austin • www.vcahospitals.com/urgent-care-north-austin

In the news

5 Korman Fine Jewelry Locals Kat and Larry Stokes celebrated the 50th anniversary of Korman Fine Jewelry in September with giveaways that will continue throughout the fall season. Korman’s is a full-service, family-owned jewelry boutique offering diamonds, timepieces, fashion jewelry, bridal and engagement pieces, and more. In

keyboarding, electronic music and more. • 3616 Far West Blvd., Bldg. 109, Austin • www.mycodingplace.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Impacts

LONGVIEW ST.

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

LONGVIEW ST.

Downtown/West Campus

N. LAMAR BLVD.

Now open

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N. LAMAR BLVD.

1 Bacalar “Top Chef” winner Gabe Erales, along with partners Kevin Burns, Merrill Alley and Lara Burns Boyda, all from Austin, opened a two-story Yucatá n-inspired restaurant in the Rainey Street area. Tómalo Taquería, a walk-up window, serving breakfast and lunch tacos also opened. • Opened Sept. 16 • 44 East Ave., Ste. 100, Austin • www.bacalaratx.com 2 Family Care Center Central Austin Founded by Dr. Chuck Weber, a psychiatrist and retired Army lieutenant colonel, the outpatient mental health services clinic offers providers with expertise in multiple disciplines. Some of the services offered include therapy, medication management and transcranial magnetic stimulation. • Opened Oct. 19 • 3705 Medical Parkway, Ste. 410, Austin • www.fccwellbeing.com 3 Austin Pickle Ranch After several delays, Austin Pickle Ranch has made its debut in downtown Austin. Tim Klitch and Dan Keelan, friends and co-founders, have been working to make this facility a reality for more than three years. Located on a rooftop, the facility has eight outdoor pickleball courts that can be rented ahead of time. Paddles are available for rent while snacks and drinks are available for purchase. • Opened Oct. 1 • 1717 W. Sixth St., 4th floor parking garage • www.austinpickleranch.com 4 Radiant Acupuncture Certified yoga teacher and acupuncturist Jen Brown has started her own business in downtown called Radiant Acupuncture. The clinic offers a mixture of Chinese medicine fused with modern techniques to treat stress, anxiety, pain and other health issues. The clinic also offers private, one-on-one yoga sessions. Radiant Acupuncture is appointment only. • Opened Sept. 1

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5 RedFarm Operating partners Zach Chodorow and Jesse Herman, along with chef Joe Ng, opened the 5,700-square-foot modern Chinese restaurant in the Second Street District. RedFarm uses locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create unique dim sum and main dishes, such as whole Peking duck with homemade pancakes. • Opened Nov. 8

• 201 W. Third St., Austin • www.redfarmatx.com

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• 2520 Longview St., Ste. 412 • www.radiant-acupuncture.com

Relocations

7 Opportunity Austin The economic development organization relocated from 535 E. Fifth St., Austin, to Indeed Tower on West Sixth Street in late summer. Opportunity Austin aims to boost economic growth in the Central Texas region by attracting industries such as manufacturing, automotive, technology and large businesses. The organization also attracts employees with initiatives that support mobility, safety and quality of life. • Relocated late summer • 200 W. Sixth St., Ste. 1750, Austin • www.opportunityaustin.com

Coming soon

6 Upgrade Labs 5th Street Owned by locals Billy and Natalie Ledbetter, Upgrade Labs offers performance-based services, such as artificially intelligent recumbent bikes and whole- body vibration plates that use adaptive technology to accelerate exercising; and recovery services to help with excess water removal, inflammation and more. • Opening mid-January • 1611 W. Fifth St., Ste. 125, Austin • www.upgradelabs.com

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BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

2 Radio/East Radio/East offers a full bar as well as espresso drinks and drip coffee. Food is available from Veracruz All Natural, Side Eye Pie and Shortwave Diner. The business also offers live music. Radio Coffee & Beer is owned by father-son duo Greg and Jack Wilson who brought on Rick Pierik, owner of Nine Mile Records, and Managing Partner Trey Hudson to manage Radio/East. • Opened Oct. 18 3 Little Nishi A new food truck called Little Nishi opened in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood. It offers temaki, Japanese for “hand rolls;” sashimi; and small plates. The menu includes 17 unique hand rolls, such as the avocado with peached miso and crispy shallots; the sake with Atlantic salmon, toasted sesame and nikiri, a sweet soy sauce; and the kappa with cucumber, shiso, Japanese mayo and togarashi, a Japanese spice blend. • Opened Sept. 27 • 3504 Montopolis Drive, Austin • www.radiocoffeeandbeer.com 4 Zoé Tong Modern Chinese restaurant Zoé Tong opened in the Zilker Park neighborhood. The menu focuses on “reimagined” Chinese dishes that incorporate local Texas produce. The menu’s star items include scallion tortillas, pan-seared dumplings and crispy duck. Zoé Tong is helmed by husband-and-wife duo Matthew Hyland and Simone Tong, both of whom are former New York chefs. The menu is inspired by Tong’s childhood in China and Singapore. • Opened Nov. 8 • 1530 Barton Springs Road, Austin • www.zoetong.com • 1311 S. First St., Austin • www.littlenishi.com

Coming soon

6 Antonelli’s Cheese Shop Started by locals John and Kendall Antonelli, the couple will open a tasting room at Lamar Union in the former Estilo Outlet space in early 2024. Antonelli’s Cheese will offer tastings and pairings, classes to educate those attending about all things cheese, and evening-out events. The tasting room will also serve cheese trays and offer Antonelli’s popular Cheese Club. • Opening in early 2024 • 1100 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 1130, Austin • www.antonellischeese.com

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South Central

bottle, it also offers food choices from appetizers to charcuterie boards.

Now open

• 1301 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.postinowinecafe.com

1 Buffalo Exchange The Tucson-based fashion resale shop offers clothing and accessories in a range of styles from vintage to trending, designer and more. Built on a buy-sell-trade business model, Buffalo Exchange allows the public to bring their items to the store for employees to select and either purchase or offer trade-in credit. • Opened Oct. 2

In the news

Coming soon

7 512 Brewing Co. The brewery celebrated its 15-year anniversary Nov. 4. 512 Brewing Co. is locally owned by Kevin Brand and offers a selection of brews, including its Pecan Porter, 512 IPA, 512 Wit, Local Crush and Juicy IPA. The brewery

5 Postino WineCafé According to a recent filing with the state of Texas, chain wine bar Postino WineCafé will open in South Austin on South Lamar Boulevard near Odd Duck and Ramen Tatsu-Ya by mid-2024. While Postino WineCafé has a range of wines to choose from by the glass or

• 3804 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.buffaloexchange.com

also sells seasonal beers. • 407 Radam Lane, Austin • www.512brewing.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Get merry at the museum. December at the Blanton means: À Weird Winter is upon us! Enjoy a whimsical, interactive holiday art installation by Steve Parker, included with admission, 12/9–1/7. À Second Saturday on 12/9 will be full of festive fun! À Gifts galore in the Museum Store, plus memberships are 15% off (all levels!) 12/1–12/31. Scan the QR code or visit blantonmuseum.org for what’s happening this holiday season.

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Impacts

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

EAST AUSTIN

2 Poke-Poke Husband-and-wife duo Jason McVearry and Trisha Fortuna have opened another location of their small chain, Poke-Poke. Originally founded in Los Angeles, there are now a handful of locations throughout the Austin area. Most of the poke bowls come with rice, Sashimi grade Ahi, soy sauce, sesame oil and other toppings, but are customizable. • Opened Nov. 1 • 2601 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin • www.poke-poke.com 3 Trona Opened by local Tatanka Guererro and his hospitality management company, Dreamers & DOers Hospitality Group, East Austin speakeasy Trona offers a seasonal cocktail menu focusing on tequilas, mezcals, wines and rare Japanese whiskey, in addition to signature drinks. Although not required, recommendations are recommended Thursdays through Sundays. • Opened Oct. 30 • 1812 E. 12th St., Austin • www.tronaeast.com 183 4 Poeta An Italian cafe opened inside The Frances Modern Inn at the former East Austin Uncle Nicky’s spot. Created by Intero chefs Krystal Craig and Ian Thurwachter, Poeta offers an all-day menu with their spin on classic dishes, such as eggs Benedict; fried chicken picatta and gnocchi; in addition to Italian cafe drinks, such as espressos and coffees. • Opened Nov. 24 • 1123 E. 11th St., Austin • www.poetarestaurant.com

Now open

6 Other Racquet Social Club The private membership club in East Austin combines a country club experience with pickleball, allowing members to play the sport on tournament-regulation-sized pickleball courts with social club amenities available, including full- service cabanas, clubhouse facilities, a member lounge with an honor bar and a private members’ dining room for special events. • Opened Sept. 15

• 2717 Manor Road, Austin • www.otherracquet.com

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Closings

130 TOLL

7 Thunderbird Coffee After 17 years in business as a neighborhood coffee shop, owner Ryan McElroy announced on social media in October he would soon close Thunderbird Coffee; however, he hopes to stay open until December to allow his team to find new jobs. McElroy said Thunderbird Coffee has struggled to bounce back after the pandemic, and it is no longer feasible to stay open. • Closing mid-December • 2200 Manor Road, Austin • www.thunderbirdcoffee.com

Now open

1 Brooklyn Dumpling Shop The restaurant, owned by Alex Liebert, offers specialty and traditional dumplings, in addition to build-your-own bowls. Some of the dumplings include the macaroni and cheese, and the Korean barbecue beef. Traditional dumplings include pork and cabbage; chicken teriyaki; and kale and vegetables. • Opened Sept. 12 • 1401 E. Sixth St., Bldg. 1, Ste. 201, Austin • www.brooklyndumplingshop.com 71

In the news

5 Lefty’s Brick Bar Lefty’s Brick Bar expanded into a neighboring space after Goan- and Portuguese-inspired restaurant Vixen’s Wedding closed Nov. 5. Named Lefty’s in the Lobby, the expansion offers breakfast options daily until noon, with cocktail and dinner options Thursday-Sunday 3-10 p.m. • Expanded Nov. 6

• 1813 E. Sixth St., Austin • www.leftysbrickbar.com

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Government

BY ELLE BENT & BEN THOMPSON

Austin leaders stress airport safety

Single-family zoning changes draw debate A proposal to allow more housing units on single-family property continues to draw strong opinions ahead of a final City Council vote in December. What happened The first-ever joint council and Planning Commission hearing Oct. 26 drew hundreds of Austinites to weigh in on the land-use concept. Supporters outnumbered opponents about two-to-one and said the “Home Options for Middle-income Empowerment,” or HOME, initiative will help address rising local housing costs and make more housing accessible. Opponents largely pushed back against what they viewed as an overly sweeping pol- icy and changing neighborhood character.

Airport hazards Local and federal officials are raising the alarm about safety at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport after several recent incidents. November 2022: Aircraft near-miss February 2023 : Aircraft near-miss April 2023: Airline employee killed; aircraft near- miss June 2023: Aircraft near-miss September 2023: Aircraft near-miss November 2023: City airport employee killed

As passenger activity continues to surge, Austin City Council urged the Federal Aviation Admin- istration to improve safety at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in the wake of multiple aircraft near-misses and employee fatalities. Two-minute impact Council unanimously passed a resolution Nov. 9 asking the airport to provide a new plane navi- gation system, and for the airport to notify city officials when critical incidents or emergencies take place. The resolution also affirmed the city’s support for federal aviation safety legislation, echoing similar calls from U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett. Doggett urged the FAA to address Austin’s low air traffic controller staffing in an Oct. 16 letter, citing it as a safety issue for the airport. “With multiple near-collisions this year endan- gering passenger lives, ABIA’s air traffic controllers

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

are clearly overworked and understaffed,” Doggett said in a statement. Diving in deeper ABIA now has 35 fully certified controllers with an additional eight in training. The tower is authorized to staff 42 controllers, while a 2023 FAA plan set Austin’s tower staffing target at 51.

Convention center expansion project advancing The Austin Convention Center’s expansion is advancing ahead of the downtown facility’s multiyear closure and redevelopment. What happened The new building’s current rentable space will nearly double to more than 720,000 square feet. Other proposals tied to the project include: • Reopening Second and Third streets

Austin Convention Center

• Adding new outdoor and community spaces • Integrating the complex with future light rail • Developing an adjacent high-rise through a potential public-private partnership

On Oct. 19, City Council voted to contract with JE Dunn and Turner for $1.2 billion in construction services, and LMN and Page for $65 million for design and engineering on the project.

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Transportation

BY ELLE BENT

Self-driving car company Cruise pauses operations General Motors’ Cruise announced Oct. 26 that all operations of autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, will be paused nationally until further notice. The company stated that the decision was not related to any new incidents on the road. The decision comes after the California Department of Motor Vehicles suspended Cruise’s deployment and driverless testing permits Oct. 24. In Austin, more than 50 complaints have been made to the city about Cruise cars as of Oct. 23. On Sept. 17, at San Gabriel and 23rd Streets near The University of Texas campus, a line of Cruise cars stopped trac after detecting many

Self-driving car complaints Prior to Cruise pausing the project, the city was tracking issues with the cars.

Near miss: 20 Blocking trac: 12 Safety concern: 9 Collision: 6 Ignored police direction: 3 Nuisance: 3

53 Total complaints

Cruise was testing self-driving cars without a human backup driver in the UT area earlier this year.

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SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Paige Ellis said on Oct. 27. Since launching in Austin in September 2022, city leaders have been unable to regulate the vehicles due to state law. In 2017, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 2205, which amended the Texas Transportation Code with policies governing autonomous vehi- cles. In addition, SB 2205 placed oversight in the state’s hands, rather than local municipalities. “We should not be treated like guinea pigs,” Ellis said Oct. 27.

pedestrians leaving a football game, said Cruise General Manager Michael Staples at a Downtown Commission meeting on Oct. 18. Diving in Since July, the complaints include near misses, collisions and concerns about nuisance and safety, according to the Austin Transportation and Public Works Department. “Thankfully, there haven’t been injuries related to driverless cars in our city, but they’ve caused their fair share of frustrations,” Mayor Pro Tem

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Education

BY ELLE BENT

Austin ISD resumes superintendent search The superintendent position will be posted on the district’s website from Nov. 17 until 5 p.m. Dec. 7. The board of trustees will review the applica- tions Dec. 7 during a board meeting. At the meeting, the board of trustees chose not to take the route of a national search after receiving public input, and instead decided to post the position immediately. Interim Superintendent Matias Segura is eligible to apply. “There was an overwhelming message of want- ing stability, focusing on strengthening systems to improve student’s outcomes and wanting some- one with a demonstrating commitment to Austin ISD,” board President Arati Singh said Nov. 16. “Although we have a strong internal candidate, we are committed to considering every application that is received.” The decision to extend Segura’s contract in March for another year paused the $42,000

AISD launches new enrollment system

How we got here

Dec. 15, 2022 - Matias Segura is named interim superintendent March 30, 2023 - Segura's contract is extended through June 30, 2024 and search is paused Sept. 26, 2023 - Austin ISD accepts proposal from Texas Education Agency for a state monitor Nov. 16, 2023 - Trustees reopen search Dec. 7, 2023 - Superintendent applications close

A new enrollment system for families reg- istering for the new school year or looking to attend Austin ISD is now available ahead of the 2024-25 school year. The gist In an email sent to families Nov. 2, the new system, referred to as “Enroll Austin,” will combine all applications into one sys- tem, including online registration, transfer requests and prekindergarten applications. In addition, families will be able to rank up to seven programs or campuses if consid- ering more than one option for enrollment. In March, the system will assign students to the highest ranked school based on capacity and eligibility. For more information, visit www.austinisd.org/enroll.

SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

process of finding a permanent replacement that began in May 2022. Former Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde left the district in June 2022 for a position at Dallas ISD. Segura was named the district’s interim superintendent Dec. 15, following a Nov. 10 announcement that former interim Superintendent Anthony Mays would leave the district for a position in Houston. The district took public input into the decision to not pursue a national search during virtual community sessions in October 2023.

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Election

BY KATY MCAFEE

Travis County propositions pass with widespread support

Travis County’s $509 million bond package aimed at improving roads and parks passed with broad support during the November election. The average Travis County homeowner will pay an additional $4.78 in taxes per month as a result of the bonds. “I think Travis County voters understand the pressure we’re under with the rapid growth and we want to do the right thing,” Travis County Com- missioner Ann Howard said. “We want to build smart infrastructure that helps people be safe and healthy, and enjoy the best we have to offer.” The details Proposition A funds $233.06 million to improve and construct a slew of roads throughout the county. Every project includes adding shared-use paths for pedestrians and cyclists. The bond funds will allow the county to incor- porate its Safe2 road design on several two-lane county roads without shoulders.

Proposition B totals $276.44 million and will add new trails along Onion Creek and Gilleland Creek, and build new sports fields at Bee Creek Sports Complex and Southeast Metro Park. The biggest chunk of the proposition—$200 million—will go toward acquiring green space and securing conser- vation easements in the following areas: • Cow Creek • Gilleland Creek

For Against Parks and road funds pass

75.78%

Proposition A Parks

• Lake Travis • Onion Creek • Pedernales River • Post Oak Savannah Springs • Wilbarger Creek

77.11%

“We’re gonna see in [December] movement to acquire some pretty significant tracts of land as a result of this bond passing ... they’re going to move on quickly,” Commissioner Brigid Shea said.

Proposition B Roads

TRAVIS COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

From the cover

Austin police embrace local business owners’ call for security

How we got here

Current situation

Downtown response times Below are APD’s response times to priority 3 calls which are for nonemergencies, such as shoplifting.

Henderson said APD’s shortcomings are due to a staffing “crisis” that has persisted for years. The department is budgeted for 1,812 officers, and they had 1,483 as of Nov. 2. Short-staffing led APD to pause responding to nonurgent calls in 2021 and regularly pull homicide detectives away from their duties to patrol downtown, officers said. APD is also seeing fewer cadets make it through to graduation, Henderson said. Many cadets drop out because they will not be able to telework, Henderson said. Others leave over the extensive background check, or they fail the polygraph, physical, academic or drug tests.

In late September, Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson ordered four to six more police officers to patrol hot spots downtown. Officers are also encouraging businesses to report crimes every time they happen and have offered help vetting private security companies. The changes are in the early stages, and some business owners are feeling their impact more than others. “My staff feels like they’re a nuisance when they call in, so I don’t think they’re feeling like there’s any particular camaraderie or support,” Hahn said. “I know my staff feels defeated and like there’s nothing to be done.” Luci Rau, store manager at Royal Blue Grocery’s Congress Avenue location, said she feels optimistic about the new patrols. “Communication is a lot more smooth; response time is a lot quicker than it was in the past,” she said.

Priority 3 calls Jan.-March 2022

64:13 min.

April-June 2022

74:26 min.

July-Sept. 2022

64:18 min.

Oct.-Dec. 2022

61:05 min.

Jan.-March 2023

60:34 min.

April-June 2023

64:59 min.

July-Sept. 2023

of most recent training cohort dropped out 44%

2 years without nonurgent call response

300+ officer vacancies

57:33 min.

SOURCE: AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE Mobility Authority

Navigating the tolling landscape can be complicated. We’re the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority, and we’re here to help you understand important pieces of the tolling puzzle, like what we do and how your toll bill works.

The Mobility Authority is not the only toll operator

Late payment fees do apply

•Online at www.PayMobilityBill.com •By phone by calling (512) 410-0562 •By mail •In person at one of our convenient locations including the newly opened Ridgepoint location, or at one of several participating stores like HEB or Walmart* •Scanning the QR code on your bill Don’t have an electronic tag? We offer several convenient ways to pay.

Payment options:

The Mobility Authority is not TxTag

We accept a variety of electronic tags

Phone

Online

There’s a reason you might get a bill in the mail even if you have an electronic tag

There are payment options everywhere

XX.XX BILL

XX.XX

Mail

Keep your electronic tag account in good standing

We use your address on file with the Texas DMV for bills

QR Code

Disclaimer: For more information on where you can pay your bill in person, visit MobilityAuthority.com.

Learn what to do when you sell your car

In-Person

Using the Pay By Mail program costs you more

WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP

To learn more fast facts about paying your Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority toll bill, visit us at MobilityAuthority.com/tolling101.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY KATY MCAFEE

The breakdown

What’s next

While APD remains short-staffed, a key player in Austin’s character— the Downtown Austin Alliance—is ramping up its efforts to keep downtown safe. The DAA members don’t want to be seen as first responders, Brice said, but the group is doing daily cleanups downtown and advocating for ordinance enforcement. “When you have an environment that looks like it’s well cared for, looked after [and] provided for, people behave differently in that type of environment than they do in areas that don’t appear to be looked after,” he said. “It did not take long at all for [cleanups and increased patrols] to have a visible impact on improving conditions downtown and the perception of safety improving as well.”

said Bill Brice, senior vice president of investor relations at the Downtown Austin Alliance—an advocacy group for downtown businesses and property owners. “And it doesn’t take too many repeated attempts experiencing that for somebody to just say, ‘I’m not even going to waste my time anymore.’”

While some business owners reported a rise in petty crime, APD data shows vandalism, shoplift- ing, burglary and robberies have slightly decreased. Henderson said APD data might be skewed, as victims do not always call 911 or self report. “There are times when people call 911 and they’re on hold for an inordinate long period of time,”

Reported shoplifting citywide

-60%

3,500

“I’m constantly trying to have to ask [my staff] to call the police even though we know we won’t necessarily get a response in a timely manner. At least then there’s a report issued and [APD] know that they need to continue their efforts on our block.” TEGHAN HAHN, WILD ABOUT MUSIC CEO

2,625

1,750

875

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023*

*DATA IS THROUGH OCTOBER 2023

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Real estate

Median home sales price

October 2022

October 2023

Residential market data

Year over year median home prices and sales were mixed across the 12 ZIP codes in Central Austin, according to the Austin Board of Realtors.

2022

2023

2022

2023

78701

78723

+4.3%

-3.08%

$612,500

$590,000

$587,500

$608,750

78702

78731

-3.33%

+2.32%

$725,000

$972,000

$750,000

$950,000

360

78703

78751

-28.57%

-20.12%

$1,125,000

$665,000

$1,575,000

$832,450

183

290

MOPAC

78704

78752

-12.54%

$739,000

$453,500

$844,999

$453,500

78701

78702 78722

78703

78704

78705

78723

78731

78751

78752

78756 78757

78705

78756

+37.08%

-8.97%

$390,000

$844,261

$284,500

$927,500

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS 512-454-7636 WWW.ABOR.COM

78722

78757

-27.18%

+22.70%

$451,500

$754,000

$620,000

$614,500

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

2023 Armadillo Christmas Bazaar The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is an arts and music festival with over 200 artists and 36 musical acts. • Dec. 15-23, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily • $12 (one-day ticket), $60 (season ticket), free (kids 12 and under) • Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road • www.armadillobazaar.com Peppermint Parkway The drive-thru event is adorned with millions of lights, plenty of holiday scenes and a petting zoo. • Through Dec. 30, 6-9 p.m. (parkway), 5-10 p.m. (Peppermint Plaza) • $40-$99 (admission, per vehicle) • 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin • www.peppermintparkway.com ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Zach Theatre Nonprofit Zach Theatre will present its family-friendly adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic holiday story featuring the Cratchit family and Ebenezer Scrooge, "A Christmas Carol." • Through Dec. 31, times vary • $25 and up • The Topfer at Zach Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.zachtheatre.org

December

Blue Genie Art Bazaar The 23rd annual Blue Genie Art Bazaar will feature nearly 200 regional vendors selling handmade items such as art, jewelry, pottery, clothing and more. • Nov. 17 - Dec. 24, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (Closed 6 p.m. on Dec. 24) • Free Senderos del desierto II This exhibit will feature art from painter Salvador Rodriguez, who uses his research of the history of ecosystems to highlight Texas deserts. Rodriguez will give an artist talk and there will be a reception in December. The exhibit will be open from Nov. 11-Dec. 16. • Artist reception, Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m.; artist talk, Dec. 13, 7-9 p.m. • Free • Julia C. Butridge Gallery, 1110 Barton Springs Road, Austin • www.austintexas.gov/department/ • 6100 Airport Boulevard, Austin • www.bluegenieartbazaar.com

‘The Nutcracker’ by Ballet Austin Ballet Austin will present its 61st production of “The Nutcracker” with live accompaniment by Austin Symphony Orchestra. Opening weekend will offer extras such as free holiday family photos by a professional photographer, Nutcracker-themed selfie stations, a sweets package and more. • Dec. 2-23, times vary • $15-$125 • The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W.

Riverside Drive, Austin • www.balletaustin.org

AARP champions more housing options in our community. Everyone deserves a place to call home. AARP worked with Austin leaders on zoning rules that create new housing options. After an AARP survey, we discovered a majority of Americans want to live in walkable neighborhoods that offer a mix of housing and transportation. We’re proud to have fought for the passage of the HOME resolution, the first step in making that dream a reality. AARP Austin will continue to work hard to enable you and your family to stay in your home for a lifetime.

Explore your options at aarp.org/austin

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Dining

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Muse Fusion + Sushi oers the Birds Nest featuring stued baked avocado for $13.

COURTESY MUSE FUSION + SUSHI

Muse Fusion + Sushi oers a variety of sushi rolls including the Sexy Tuna Roll with shrimp tempura, kanikama, tuna, unagi sauce and spicy mayo for $14, and the Happy Roll with barbecue eel, salmon, sriracha and masago for $13.

COURTESY STACY KENYON

Austin’s Muse Fusion + Sushi rolls with the punches

Ethan Huynh and his daughter, Ava, moved to Austin in 2019 to be near family and grow in his career.

The team makes their sauces in-house and works to nd the freshest ingredients while keeping costs to a minimum for the customer. “Our restaurant is small but mighty,” Huynh said. “Our prices are unmatched for the quality, variety and service we provide.” What’s on the menu? Muse oers a variety of options from sushi rolls to sashimi, bento boxes and Japanese-style dishes. “I love focusing on detail, avor, pairing and presentation to create something unique,” Huynh said. “It is my wish that our customers will always experience our care and commitment through our food.”

Owned and operated by Austinite Ethan Huynh, Muse Fusion + Sushi opened in South Austin in 2022 and persevered through lingering pandemic obstacles. Looking back Originally from Louisiana, Huynh and his daughter, Ava, moved to Austin in 2019 to expand his career in the service industry. He said the early days of Muse were lled with long hours due to a worker shortage following the pandemic. However, Huynh said he’s been developing his skills since the age of 12, when he discovered that food can be an artistic expression. What’s special about it?

COURTESY MUSE FUSION + SUSHI

290

4211 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. A-3, Austin Instagram: Musefusionsushi

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Community

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Volunteer Guide

2023

Learn more about volunteer opportunities in Central Austin. For specific volunteer requirements, contact the organization directly. This list is not comprehensive.

individuals, groups, and businesses • P.O. Box 6160 Austin • 512-47-1566 • www.austinparks.org

various flexible programs. • Sample activities: assemble kits, run a phone bank, organize storage • 6207 Sheridan Ave., Austin • www.anybabycan.org Assistance League of Austin The nonprofit offers philanthropic programs, including helping individuals transitioning from homelessness to resettling and stocking a toy cart with gifts for children at Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas. • Sample activities: working at the organization’s Thrift House, which provides funds for the programs. • 4901 Burnet Road, Austin • www.alaustin.org

Animal and environmental services

Austin Pets Alive This nonprofit organization is an animal rescue group that creates programs to promote and provide the resources and education needed to eliminate the killing of companion animals. • Sample activities: dog walking, fostering pets, caring for cats, assisting in the medical clinic, digital marketing, data entry • Main location: 1156 W. Cesar Chavez, Austin • www.austinpetsalive.org

Austin Animal Center Austin Animal Center is a city-run no-kill shelter and operates by appointment only. • Sample activities: greet adopters at the shelter, provide outreach, provide medical assistance. • 7201 Levander Loop Bldg. A, Austin • www.austintexas.gov/austin-animal-center Austin Parks Foundation Austin Parks Foundation partners with the community to make public parks, trails and green spaces better through volunteerism, programming, advocacy and financial support. • Sample activities: Volunteer opportunities for

Education and family

Any Baby Can The Central Texas nonprofit partners with families to overcome obstacles and achieve well-being through

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