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Lake Travis Westlake Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 3 APRIL 24 MAY 22, 2025
Enhancing safety
6.4-mile median project slated for Hwy. 71 to reduce accidents
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The median project will add raised medians along a 6.4-mile stretch of Hwy. 71. MATTHEW BROOKS COMMUNITY IMPACT
As you embark on this amazing journey, know that we’re by your side for every moment. We’re here to keep you calm, make you comfortable and remind you just how strong you are. This is your moment. You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions. Data as of December 31, 2023, based on sales volume, luxury sales volume, closed sales, co-op sales, unit sales, market share, or luxury market share depending on the ranking criteria for each specific region included and that region’s MLS data. Market Share data pulled from the ABOR/MLS report. 1/1/2024 to 6/30/2024. Based on total number of sold single family residences sold at $3,500,000 and above. Results deemed accurate but are not guaranteed.
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
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Beth provides concierge-level service to sellers, skillfully navigating the intricacies of the luxury home selling experience, and always striving to secure the best outcome for her clients.
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hello YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST neighbor YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
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Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
I Live Here | I Work Here | I Get Results Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
Woods III | 1914 Chalk Rock Cove $2,425,000 | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 5,394 SF 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
8507 CHALK KNOLL DRIVE WOODS II | Golf course & views
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
AUSTIN’S LUXURY REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS
YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. The Drewett family, Texas natives and deeply rooted in family values, have called Austin home for over three decades. The Drewett Group proudly stands as a pinnacle in Austin’s real estate scene focused on luxury homes, lakefront properties, land and investments. This distinction is exemplifi ed through their enduring relationships, private networks, exclusive memberships, and their profound understanding of both the local and luxury real estate markets. REALTOR ® REALTOR ® REALTOR ®
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
Calera | 8625 Calera Drive $3,850,000 | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 6,075 SF 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
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2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
REALTOR ® REALTOR ®
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
REALTOR ®
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8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES 8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. Neighborhood Market Repor ts ational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. ational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. mpiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All ng the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, censed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES Amarra | 8701 Acuarela Court $5,750,000 | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 5,205 SF 8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All er. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, Opportunity.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR
ct to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal,
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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4 Naatu Indian Food The food truck serves Indian dishes such as tikka masala and butter chicken along with snacks, desserts and drinks. • Opened March 14 • 6901 RM 620, Austin • www.naaturestaurant.com 5 Strider Reclaimed Goods The store sells curated vintage and modern clothing, art, accessories, hard goods like furniture and more. Owners Jackie and Caleb Goodaker-Craig source from private collectors, thrift stores, yard sales and online. • Opened March 1 • 7500 Hwy. 71, Ste. 108, Austin • Instagram: strider.atx 6 BellaKate Owned by Carol Underwood and Betsy Riley, the clothing boutique offers fashion collections from up-and-coming designers as well as gifts and custom gift wrapping. • Opening in April • 12700 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. G-155, Bee Cave • www.shopbellakate.com LoopDeco The bulk item and furniture removal company provides in-home and in-office removal for furniture, appliances and other home goods to the Austin metro and surrounding areas. • Opened Feb. 1 • www.loopdeco.com
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coloring, alongside brow services, airbrush tanning and skin rejuvenation, according to the business’ website. • Opened Feb. 10 • 12701 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. O-110, Bee Cave • www.lashandcompany.com/tx-austin 3 The Picklr Austin West The venue features 11 courts—including championship courts, XL courts and regulation courts—tournaments and drop-in play, a stretch and recovery zone and other amenities such as locker rooms, showers, lounges and
Now open
Coming soon
1 Conscious Kitchen ATX Owned by chefs and holistic health practitioners Nikki and Sara Siso, the organic, raw and plant-based kitchen offers a health-focused menu with items such as veggie burgers, quiche, falafel and pizza, as well as sweet options like key lime cheesecake, apple pie and macaroons. • Opened March 29 • 3620 Bee Caves Road, Ste. C, West Lake Hills • www.consciouskitchenatx.com
7 Old Saigon Vietnamese Bistro The menu for the family owned business will feature a variety of pho, ramen, dumplings and dry noodle bowls. Boba tea and desserts like mango sticky rice and fried banana will also be offered. • Opening late April • 2900 N. Quinlan Park Road, Austin • www.oldsaigonvbistro.com
court reservations. • Opened March 22 • 8201 N. RM 620, Ste. 130, Austin • www.thepicklr.com/location/austin-west
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BY BRITTANY ANDERSON, GRACE DICKENS & KAROLINE PFEIL
8 Bondi Bowls The national food truck chain will offer acai bowls, smoothies, juices and granola.
Coming soon
What's next
• Opening early June • 5145 RM 620, Austin • www.bondibowls.com
9 Frost Bank Financial Center A groundbreaking ceremony was held March 28 for the new financial center, with construction completion estimated to take place in July and a grand opening expected to take place later this year, a Frost Bank marketing representative said. • Opening late 2025 • 1408 S. RM 620, Lakeway • www.frostbank.com
13 Rowan The piercing salon in the Village at Westlake shopping center will allow customers to purchase piercing services provided by licensed nurses as well as a variety of hypoallergenic gold and silver jewelry. • Opening early summer • 701 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Ste. D-470, West Lake Hills • www.heyrowan.com
15 Cava The Mediterranean food chain offers a variety of salad and rice bowls, pita wraps, and sides. A permit for the new location’s mobile pickup window was approved at a Bee Cave City Council meeting. Developer Bill Walters said his goal was to open the location by the end of 2025. • S. RM 620 and East Ladera Boulevard • www.cava.com
Expansions
10 MorninGlory A new patio will soon open at the restaurant to provide a shaded outdoor space for customers to enjoy their food. • Opening late April • 2121 Lohmans Crossing Road, Ste. 500, Lakeway • www.morninglorytx.com
In the news
11 West Austin Chamber of Commerce Founded April 3, 2010, the West Austin Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its fifteenth year of serving local businesses. The organization’s mission is to connect, support, and advocate for the West Austin business community through luncheons, events and more, according to its website. • 7710 N. RM 620, Bldg. 13-D, Ste. 121, Austin • www.westaustinchamber.org 12 Kale Me Crazy The restaurant celebrated its fifth anniversary on March 5. The franchised health food restaurant serves health-focused items such as poke bowls, açaí bowls, wraps and toasts, as well as drinks such as cold pressed juices, smoothies and wellness shots.
• 8300 N. RM 620, Austin • www.kalemecrazy.net
1975 by Andy Cotton and John Meddaugh. Customers can find a variety of traditional subs, including roast beef and meatball, alongside signature subs. • Various locations across Lake Travis-Westlake • www.thundercloud.com
14 Ascension Seton Medical Center Marking 50 years of care, local leaders gathered in March to celebrate Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin’s milestone anniversary. Opened in 1975, Ascension Seton is a full-service hospital providing 24/7 emergency care. It is home to a comprehensive Level I stroke center and a Level IV trauma center. • 1201 W. 38th St., Austin • www.healthcare.ascension.org Thundercloud Subs Austin-grown Thundercloud Subs celebrated its 50th anniversary on March 23. The business was founded in
Closings
16 Forever 21 The affordable clothing store for men and women filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time and will begin closing its U.S. stores, according to a March 16 news release. The Barton Creek Square location remains open but is expected to close gradually. • 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy. M06A, Austin • www.forever21.com
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
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Government
BY KAROLINE PFEIL
Future of new resort in ux
Development timeline
The details
2022
The White Rocks resort is located within the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve and features 600 residential units with condos and a luxury hotel. Although a proposed 10,000-seat amphitheater was mentioned in a March 27 email from devel- opers and appears to be displayed in the White Rocks’ digital brochure and website, developers at the meeting said the project was not included in current plans. The Barton Creek Habitat Preserve contains over 4,000 acres of land dedicated to protecting the natural habitat of endangered species like the golden-cheeked warbler and preserving the Barton Creek Watershed, per The Nature Conservancy. At the meeting, members of the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance and several local residents argued against approval of the new wastewater permit.
Feb. 16: city of Austin’s rejects Violet Crown Amphitheater water/wastewater request
2023 September: Violet Crown Amphitheater originally anticipated to open 2024 May 20: White Rocks Entertainment LLC submits wastewater permit request 2025 March 7: Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance submits comments against White Rocks development March 25: Bee Cave council members speak out against project April 8: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality holds meeting to consider permit request June-July: TCEQ addresses all permit comments; decision release TBD SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMUNITY IMPACT
A new luxury hotel and residential resort development just east of Bee Cave’s city limits is receiving opposition from city o cials and Travis County residents due to concerns regarding the development’s environmental impact. On April 8, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality held a public meeting to discuss permitting for the new White Rocks resort put forward by developers at White Rocks Entertainment LLC. The development appears to be a new iteration of the Violet Crown amphitheater project, according to details provided in previous water permit requests. The proposed 70-acre resort is being developed by local builder Chris Milam whose company, IDM, is also responsible for projects like the Hill Country Galleria, per an email shared with Community Impact by the White Rocks development team.
What’s next
No decision regarding the permit’s approval or denial was made at the April 8 meeting. TCEQ will respond to all formal comments made online and at the meeting in the next 45-60 days, o cials said. Although the development lies outside of Bee Cave city limits, the city passed a resolution voicing its opposition to White Rocks at a council meeting held March 25. Council member Kevin Hight explained that the city opposes the development due to environmental concerns as well as light pollution. Mayor Kara King also stated local infrastructure could not accommodate the development.
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“Hopefully we can send a message to the regulatory bodies that we don’t have the infrastructure to support this.” KARA KING, BEE CAVE MAYOR
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Proposed White Rocks development
Developers associated with the Violet Crown and White Rocks projects have not responded to requests for comment as of press time.
BARTON CREEK COUNTRY CLUB
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SOURCE: TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMUNITY IMPACT
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Government
BY HALEY MCLEOD & KAROLINE PFEIL
Lakeway approves rst baby box in Central Texas Lakeway will soon install the rst Safe Haven Baby Box for surrendered newborns in Central Texas, following a City Council decision made March 17. The overview The baby box program, administered by Safe Haven Baby Boxes, aims to assist mothers in crisis and prevent illegal newborn abandonment, according to the organization’s website. While Safe Haven laws dictate that any Texas hospital, re station or emergency medical station are options for safe surrender of infants, the baby box is an additional alternative available under the law. Surrendered infants can be placed within a temperature-controlled deposit box, often called a baby box or baby hatch, which provides oxygen and features an external locking mechanism. Typically, these boxes are located at re stations,
Bee Cave creates new subcommittees Bee Cave is creating new subcommittees to advise City Council on development and historical preservation of the city. The City of Bee Cave has created and appointed members to a new Hill Country Galleria subcommittee, which will review rezoning requests and other matters related to the Hill Country Galleria. Also established at council’s March 11 meeting was a historic preservation subcommittee, which will be tasked with documenting and preserving Bee Cave history. The overview Mayor Po Tem Andrew Clark stated that city hotel occupancy tax funds could be used for historical preservation e orts, and that the committee could provide guidance to council on usage of these funds.
The Safe Haven Baby Box provides an anonymous, safe way for individuals to surrender infants 60 days old or younger.
and local police are automatically sent an alert when an infant is placed within the box, Mayor Pro Tem Gretchen Vance said. The baby box, originally put forward by Austin resident Brooke Waugh and set to be installed at Pedernales Fire Station 802, will be the rst of its kind in Central Texas, Vance said March 17.
Austin Infrastructure Academy aims to bolster jobs Workforce Solutions Capital Area launched the Austin Infrastructure Academy on March 26, a “person-centric” career development program. Diving in deeper
"The Austin Infrastructure Academy is taking a holistic approach, o ering customized training and certi cation programs that align with the employers’ and job-seekers’ needs." ANDY BROWN, TRAVIS COUNTY JUDGE
Workforce Solutions Capital Area CEO. The Austin Infrastructure Academy is being initially funded through previously allocated city dollars. As part of its $5.9 billion budget for scal year 2024-25, Austin o cials vouched for $5 million to launch the academy. Austin Community College also allocated $200 million in 2022 bond funds for a 76-acre campus in Southeast Travis County.
The academy will provide a new hub for job seekers that integrates recruitment and training for prospective employees in Austin’s mobility and infrastructure sector, said Tamara Atkinson,
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
Education
BY CHLOE YOUNG
LTISD now reviewing applicants for superintendent search
The search for Lake Travis ISD’s new superin- tendent continues as applications for the position closed April 11. The district is looking for a new leader following the resignation of former Superintendent Paul Norton, who was placed on a paid administrative leave by the board in late December. The board reviewed the candidates in closed session April 15,
In an anonymous survey, 396 respondents ranked the importance of the following qualities in the next superintendent of Lake Travis ISD.
Not important
Somewhat important
Important
Very important
Extremely important Able to make & defend difficult decisions
Strong communicator
Champion for families & community
Experienced educator
Approachable & visible
after press time. Diving in deeper
JG Consulting representatives held 27 virtual and in-person meetings to garner feedback with various community groups, according to the firm’s report. The firm met with district staff, students and parents as well as community leaders and organiza- tions, including mayors, City Council members and chambers of commerce. Feedback across various groups focused on seeking leadership, communication, relation- ship building, financial expertise and academic
SOURCE: JG CONSULTING/COMMUNITY IMPACT
excellence in a superintendent, alongside traits like integrity and accountability. The background At a Dec. 17 special meeting, the board voted to place Norton on a paid administrative leave and launch an investigation after reviewing a report
containing allegations of misconduct. Norton submitted his resignation Feb. 1. What’s next The board will conduct two rounds of interviews, according to the job description. The district is expected to name a lone finalist by May 1.
“I’m running for re-election because I am deeply committed to Eanes ISD and believe every student deserves an exceptional education. We may be the best district in Texas, but we still face challenges. Now more than ever, we need experienced leadership to navigate these challenges and secure the future of our district. I have consistently demonstrated the knowledge, dedication, and experience needed to advocate for our students, support our teachers, and protect taxpayer interests. I would be honored to earn your vote!” - Heather Endorsed by 100’s of Eanes parents, neighbors, and educators. Visit heatherforeanes.com for more information. Keep Eanes the #1 district in Texas by re-electing Heather Sheffield EARLYVOTING: 4/22 - 4/29 ELECTION DAY: MAY 3RD
Parents and guardians of students in K-12 grade new to Lake Travis ISD for the 2025-2026 school year may enroll their child online at LTISDSCHOOLS.ORG/ENROLLMENT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY BRITTANY ANDERSON, SAM SCHAFFER & CHLOE YOUNG
LTISD pushes 2nd high school forward amid enrollment concerns The Lake Travis ISD board of trustees took the next steps in building a second high school at the March 26 board meeting, while some trustees have raised concerns about opening the campus amid declining enrollment. The board approved American Constructors as its contractor to build High School No. 2 off Reimers-Peacock Road near Hwy. 71, but would not have to move forward with construction until the guaranteed maximum price was approved at a later date, said Pam Sanchez, assistant superinten- dent for business services. The board also approved a $11.88 million contract with Liberty Civil Construction for devel- oping Reimers-Peacock Road near the campus, Sanchez said.
Leander ISD adopts abstinence curriculum Leander ISD at its March 13 meeting approved a new human sexuality curric- ulum that will go into effect for students beginning in May. The curriculum will teach abstinence as the only 100% effective way of preventing pregnancy and as the preferred choice of behavior. What you need to know The human sexuality curriculum is for grades 7-9, and parents or guardians must opt their students into the program if they want them to participate, according to the presentation. The curriculum includes four to six lessons per grade level, and it meets the laws and standards required of sexuality curric- ula in Texas, according to the presentation.
Lake Travis ISD ten-year historical enrollment
11,010
12K
10K
8,833
8K
6K
0
SOURCE: POPULATION AND SURVEY ANALYSTS, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The backstory Last year, the board voted to reduce the capacity of High School No. 2 from 2,000 to 1,500 students in light of new demographic data that showed the district’s projected high school enrollment would decline by 500 students.
EISD to require middle, high school student ID badges Eanes ISD middle and high school students will be required to wear student identification badges starting during the 2025-26 school year as part of a new safety measure. Kristy Sailors, assistant superintendent of Some context EISD had a school safety audit in 2023 and was recommended to implement middle school and high school ID badges, Sailors said.
How it works • Students required to wear badge when using school facilities, including district transportation • Badge must be easily visible • Failure to wear badge may result in disciplinary action and denied entry • Temporary badges may be issued if a badge is lost, but multiple offenses will result in a replacement fee
The badges will include a student photo and the school year, and will be deactivated once the year is completed or if they are lost, Sailors said. Funding for the badges comes from the 2023 bond.
operations and technology, provided the board of trustees with information on the new badges during the March 25 board meeting.
SOURCE: EANES ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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13
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
6.4-mile median project slated for Hwy. 71 to reduce accidents From the cover
Hwy. 71 Safety Improvement Project
The overview
Project limits Planned median openings #
BEE CREEK CREEK RD.
Running through the heart of Bee Cave, Hwy. 71 functions as the main connector to several cities in the Lake Travis region. As population sizes have increased in the area, tra c and crashes on major roads have as well. Eight tra c fatalities have been recorded in the city since 2015, according to the Texas Department of Transportation, with a total of 255 car accidents and two fatalities in 2023. In an e ort to decrease crashes and tra c fatalities on Hwy. 71 speci cally, TxDOT o cials have put forward the State Highway 71 Safety Improvement Project, which implements raised medians on a 6.4-mile corridor between Bee Creek Road and Uplands Ridge Drive in Bee Cave. Some city o cials, however, have voiced concerns about worsening tra c, with Bee Cave Police Chief Brian Jones expressing that additional tra c could impact police response times. “If tra c is even farther backed up, how are we going to get there in a timely fashion?” Jones said.
SERENE HILLS DR.
1
2
620
VAIL DIVIDE
CORAL STONE WAY
3
PEDERNALES SUMMIT PKWY.
4
CAPROCK SUMMIT DR.
5 6 7
8 9
WILLIE WAY
BEE CAVE CAVE PKWY.
10
SWEETWATER VILLAGE DR.
N. JOINT ACCESS RD. PALERMO PALERMO DR.
BEE CAVES RD.
ACACIA DR.
71
11
12 13
14 15
16
HAMILTON POOL RD.
GREAT DIVIDE DR.
17
UPLANDS RIDGE DR.
SPANISH OAKS OAKS CLUB BLVD.
© GOOGLE EARTH
N
1 Bee Creek Road 2 Pedernales Summit Parkway 3 Caprock Summit Drive 4 Serene Hills Drive/ Sweetwater Village Drive 5 Acacia Drive 6 Coral Stone Way
7 Vail Divide 8 North Joint Access Road 9 Palermo Drive 10 Future intersections 11 Bee Cave Parkway/ Hamilton Pool Road 12 Entrance to baseball fields
13 Great Divide Drive 14 Spanish Oaks Club Boulevard 15 RM 620 16 Bee Caves Road 17 H-E-B front entrance
SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
Bee Cave Hwy. 71 crashes
Diving in deeper
175
By implementing raised medians on this stretch of Hwy. 71, TxDOT officials estimate that crashes may be reduced by up to 39%. Current plans detail 17 protected median breaks, providing drivers access to shops and businesses along the side of the highway. Break locations were created with input from Bee Cave residents shared at TxDOT’s open house meeting Oct. 17, TxDOT Public Information Officer Antonio Lujan said.
Data collected by TxDOT shows that crashes along Hwy. 71 in Bee Cave have increased over time, from 124 in 2019 to 151 in 2022. Sideswipe crashes, involving two vehicles flowing in the same direction of traffic, increased by 15% during this time span, and nonintersection crashes increased by 10%, according to a presentation shared by TxDOT engi- neer William Semora Jr. at a Bee Cave City Council meeting last fall.
150
125
100
0
2019 2020 2021
2022
SOURCE: TXDOT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY KAROLINE PFEIL
Raised medians on RM 620
What they’re saying
The response
Several median break locations were added following public feedback, but some residents are concerned about the current plans. Falconhead neighborhood resident Geoff Perlman compared the project to Lakeway’s 1.4-mile median project on RM 620. “[RM] 620 is far more dense in terms of businesses than [Hwy.] 71,” Perlman said. “The council and the chief of police seem very concerned about traffic getting worse as Bee Cave’s population grows.” Others, such as Melissa Takamatsu, owner of collision repair center Epps Body & Paint, argue that medians will provide benefits.
Semora said at a March 11 special council meeting that the department’s highest priority is safety, followed by mobility. “The [Hwy.] 71 traffic study that we did, it did a very in-depth dive on statistics, heat maps, where the crashes were, what types of crashes, the severity rate,” Semora said. “What you see is that medians aren’t always the easiest to implement but what you see is they have the best long-term return for severe crashes.” When the city of Bee Cave requested help from TxDOT to reduce crashes and fatalities in the Bee Cave corridor of Hwy. 71, TxDOT decided that, based upon its 2019-22 traffic study, medians would be the best solution. Since then, traffic has increased in the city, likely leading to the increased complaints regarding traffic, council member Andrea Willott said. “We’re just trying to deliver on a safety need,” Semora said. “If the city is saying that we wanted it back then but we don’t want it anymore, then administration has to hear that, and it has to come from council in writing.” No written opposition to the project has been issued by the city as of press time.
I run a collision repair shop, I don’t need any more business. If I wanted more business, I’d say, ‘no, forget the medians, that’s fine.’ ...
No, [the current traffic flow] is bad news for everybody. MELISSA TAKAMATSU, OWNER OF EPPS BODY & PAINT
PHOTOS BY KAROLINE PFEIL/COMMUNITY IMPACT
RM 620 crashes
What’s next?
In comparison
Number of crashes, 2020 Number of crashes, 2024
Following public and City Council feedback, the Highway 71 Safety Improvement Project is continuing to move forward, with work expected to begin in late summer or fall and last from 10-12 months. “We ask for the public’s patience during construction—this project will ultimately solve safety and mobility concerns community members have brought up,” Lujan said.
In Lakeway, a similar initiative by TxDOT was completed in 2020, adding raised medians to a 1.4-mile stretch of RM 620 between Bella Mon- tagna Circle and Lohmans Crossing Road. Senior Planner Charlie Sullivan said that the project was implemented in response to high traffic volume and crash rates in the corridor and as a prepara- tory step for the larger RM 620 widening project, which is expected to begin in 2028 following delays related to funding prioritization. Results of the project show that crashes have been more evenly distributed along the road rather than centralized at specific “hotspots,” Sullivan said. “Comparing 2020 data to 2024, traffic volumes increased by 33%, but the number of crashes increased by only 8%,” Sullivan said. “So in general, the data shows that the median proj- ect has been a modest success: The intensity of Lohmans Crossing as a crash hot spot has decreased, crashes are more evenly distributed, and crashes have increased at a slower rate than traffic volumes.”
Lakeway Blvd. 4 9 Lohmans Spur 2 0
Lohmans Crossing
Project timeline Fall 2024 • TxDOT public workshop Spring 2025 • Revision of plans finalized Fall 2025 • Construction starts Fall 2026 • Construction ends
32
24
Flintrock
10
13
Medical Pkwy. 8
15
SOURCE: TXDOT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF LAKEWAY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
15
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
Transportation
BY HALEY MCLEOD & KAROLINE PFEIL
New safety projects approved for Bee Cave Parkway, Bee Caves Road Pedestrians on Bee Cave Parkway and Bee Caves Road will soon see safety improvements made to these streets following a March 25 agreement between Bee Cave and the Texas Department of Transportation, or TxDOT. The details According to a map of the project shared at the meeting, pedestrian sidewalks will be added to the south side of Bee Cave Parkway, from Market Street to Bee Caves Road. Additionally, a sidewalk will be added to the south side of Bee Caves Road from the exit near Starbucks to Tennison Hill Drive. At the intersection of Bee Cave Parkway and Bee Caves Road, a striped crosswalk with a pedestrian push button and associated beacon will also be added.
TravCo aims to reduce traffic deaths, injuries Travis County commissioners approved a goal of achieving a 50% reduction in roadway fatalities by 2035 and 100% by 2050 on March 11. Explained The Safe Streets for All initiative aims to eliminate serious traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Also referred to as Vision Zero, the county is currently developing its safety action plan. The current study area includes all of Tra- vis County with a focus on unincorporated areas, as well as partnering jurisdictions within the county, including Rollingwood, Lakeway, West Lake Hills and others. The final draft of the Travis County safety action plan is expected to be submitted to commissioners by May for final approval.
Proposed pedestrian sidewalk area Proposed pedestrian crosswalk and signal
TENNISON HILL DR.
71
N
Bee Cave will be responsible for 10% of the $959,650 construction cost and will also contrib- ute $280,000 to the development of construction plans, which includes surveying and design services, according to city documents. What’s next? The project must be put out for bid by Dec. 1, 2026, according to city documents.
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ
Reimers Observatory marks 10 years
What else
Reimers Observatory was funded through a county bond project, according to the observatory website. Located beyond western Travis County, the observatory at 23610 Hamilton Pool Road has a 25-inch telescope and a 15-inch telescope. The observatory o ers about 100 programs per year. Reservations are required at https://parks. traviscountytx.gov.
The Reimers Observatory at Reimers Ranch celebrated 10 years of stargazing and astronomy education in March. Travis County Commissioner for Precinct 3 Ann Howard said the observatory provides visitors an opportunity to learn about the sky above them. “This observatory has not only deepened our understanding of space, but it has also inspired countless visitors to view the heavens with awesome wonder,” she said. Travis County and the Travis County Parks Foundation held a celebration March 29, featuring stargazing, educational activities and presentations by astronomers. Opened in 2015, the observatory has o ered visitors a space to view starry skies and participate in educational programming, including discussions on constellations, planets, the Milky Way and more.
The Reimers Observatory is located within Milton Reimers Ranch Park.
“For the past 10 years, Reimers Observatory has been a beacon of discovery here in Travis County.” ANN HOWARD, TRAVIS COUNTY PRECINCT 3 COMMISSIONER
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MILTON REIMER’S RANCH RD.
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17
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
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Let the rain do the work
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18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Environment
BY KAROLINE PFEIL
As drought continues in the Lake Travis-Westlake area, local o cials as well as re departments in the region are supporting regional endeavors to mitigate and respond to res as well as sharing advice on community preparedness methods. Lake Travis Fire Rescue, or LTFR, services the cities of Lakeway and Bee Cave, as well as other Travis County localities like Steiner Ranch. Currently, the Lake Travis region is in a Stage D-3 drought, or extreme drought, according to the Southwestern Travis County Groundwater Conservation District. “Drought is certainly one of the biggest drivers of our wild re risk,” LTFR wild re mitigation specialist Dustin Dunn said. O cials stress wild re readiness
The risk
A burn probability map shows the likelihood of a wild re burning a speci c location in a set time frame, usually one calendar year or wild re season, according to Texas A&M Forest Service.
Spicewood
LAKE TRAVIS
Least
Lakeway
West Lake Hills
Bee Cave
Rollingwood
Most
N
SOURCE: TEXAS WILDFIRE RISK ASSESSMENT, PYROLOGIX 2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT
Property re mitigation
The details
One more thing
Remove dead vegetation
Bee Cave is working to enforce its re code, and encouraging residents to report any violations, Mayor Kara King said. The city also works to main- tain vegetation and mitigate re in public spaces through a variety of programs. In Lakeway , the city participates in a hazard mitigation plan every ve years. The city is currently deciding on how to use $1.4 million in FEMA funds distributed in February, and allocating a portion for wild re mitigation is under consideration, Emer- gency Management Director Waheeda Yousofzoy said. In West Lake Hills , city-wide assessments by Firewise are conducted every three years, after which a safety plan is established. Rollingwood is
In terms of re response, Bee Cave and Lakeway employ a messaging system known as Voyent Alert to notify residents of res or emergencies in the area. LTFR’s emergency noti cation system is Warn Central Texas, which provides similar alerts to residents of 10 counties in Central Texas. While both cities are serviced by Warn Central Texas, West Lake Hills also hosts its own emergency alert system through the myAlerts app, which warns users of disasters as well as nonemergency incidents that impact residents. Similarly, Rollingwood utilizes Rave Mobile Alerts to inform residents of any local emergencies, weather events or other important updates. Where to sign up Bee Cave & Lakeway: • www.voyent-alert.us/community/#registration Rollingwood: • www.rollingwoodtx.gov/administration/page/ community-alerts West Lake Hills: • www.westlakehills.org/383/Alerts-Noti ications Travis County: • www.warncentraltexas.org/communities/ travis-county
Replace wood chip mulch with rock
Replace eaves made of ammable materials
Clear gutters
Trim vegetation near home
SOURCE: LAKE TRAVIS FIRE RESCUE COMMUNITY IMPACT
part of Travis County’s Emergency Management Basic Plan, and less public space means focus on private land is key to mitigating re risks, ESD 9 Fire Chief David Wilson said.
What else?
We’ve changed our approach to not just being responsive. I think this is the key—not just being responsive, but being proactive. Trying to get ahead of this before it’s actually a problem. ROBERT ABBOTT, LTFR FIRE CHIEF
Fire mitigation e orts in the region have strengthened since 2011, when Steiner Ranch faced an evacuation order which revealed the area’s lack of adequate roads and infrastructure for emergency situations. In addition to the development of residential re codes, re response capability has been strengthened in the region, with sta ng levels
increased, additional equipment and land, sea, and air resource capabilities added, LTFR Fire Chief Robert Abbott said.
19
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
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