Southwest Austin - Dripping Springs Edition | March 2026

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Southwest Austin Dripping Springs Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 12 MARCH 27APRIL 27, 2026

2026 Voter Guide

MoPac South expansion heads to public review

By Brittany Anderson

MOPAC

BARTON SKYWAY

Also in this issue Election: Discover what’s on the ballot May 2 for Dripping Springs voters (Page 11)

In an eort to ease congestion, the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority is proposing building one to two express lanes along MoPac from Cesar Chavez Street to Slaughter Lane, with a wishbone ramp near Barton Skyway. (Matthew Brooks/Community Impact)

Business: Check out how a South Austin string shop supports orchestra students (Page 23)

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Conservation Rebates, Tools, Tips, and more

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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 Manuel Holguin Jr. Haley McLeod Michael Milliorn Hannah Norton Daniel Schwalm Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Joel Valley Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss Abigail Jones Sabrina Musachia

Judy LeBas General Manager jlebas@communityimpact. com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Amareth Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara Austin Market President Travis Baker

Elle Bent Editor ebent@ communityimpact.com

Lindsee Sanchez Account Executive lsanchez@ communityimpact.com

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

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Southwest Austin

• Opened Jan. 8 • My Salon Suite, 7101 Hwy. 71, Unit U-2, Austin • www.amaraluxeheadspa.com 3 Austin Gastroenterology The practice launched its Barton Ridge location, which will consolidate its former James Casey and Southwest clinics into one modern facility. The company hopes to enhance care coordination, streamline services and create a convenient experience for patients by combining the two locations, according to previous reporting by Community Impact . • Opened March 2 • 4544 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste., 620, Austin • www.austingastro.com 4 Hello Dancer The studio features a full schedule designed for young dancers ages 2 months to 9 years old. Parents can look into a range of classes and additional oerings including spring, summer and fall sessions, which will include weekly dance classes for babies, toddlers and children, Baby and Me classes, Mommy and Me classes and independent classes for PreK 3-9 year olds.

• Opened March 7 • 2919 Menchaca Road, Ste. 205, Austin • www.hellodanceraustin.com

Now open

Coming soon

1 The Cosmic Cup The Cosmic Cup opened at Fetch Food Park o Hamilton Pool Road in January, oering coee and tarot readings. The business uses coee grown by women in Oaxaca, Mexico, with tarot readings oered as part of the overall experience, according to the business. • Opened in January • 17499 Hamilton Pool Road, Austin • Instagram: the_cosmic_cup1 2 Amara Luxe Head Spa Owned by local Mae Fu, Amara Luxe is a scalp wellness spa providing customizable treatments. The signature ritual includes Precision Scalp Health, an analysis of hair and scalp conditions to create a customized treatment plan, and The Sensory Experience, personalized treatments under the “waterfall head bath,” hydrotherapy and an acupressure massage.

5 Jersey Mike’s Subs A new location of Jersey Mike’s, where guests can customize sandwiches, is slated to open in the Shady

Hollow Shopping Center. • Opening summer 2026 • 9901 Brodie Lane, Ste. 180 • www.jerseymikes.com

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

6 Airway Dentists A new dental oce is headed to Sunset Valley Village, according to a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Airway Dentists was founded

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF Texas Under One Roof

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by Dr. Kalli Hale and uses an interdisciplinary approach to address breathing and sleep-disordered breathing, according to its website. There is an additional oce in Bee Cave. • 5601 Brodie Lane, Ste. 1325, Austin • www.theairwaydentists.com 7 The Little Gym A new location of The Little Gym, which oers gymnastics to children from age four months to 12 years old, is headed to The Ramble at Goodnight Ranch, according to the gym’s website and a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration. • 9021 Goodnight Ranch Blvd., Ste. 1300, Austin • www.thelittlegym.com/texas-austin-goodnight-ranch

Now open

Coming soon

12 Minimint Pediatric Dentistry Led by local mom and dentist Patricia Robus, Minimint focuses on gentle, modern care for children and teens. The team provides a range of services, including, cleanings, prevention, cavity treatment, emergency care and orthodontics. • Opened Feb. 16 • 3601 Davis Lane, Bldg. 2, Ste. 200, Austin • www.minimintkids.com

13 Snooze, an A.M. Eatery The Snooze, an A.M. Eatery team ramps up to open its fourth Austin location at The Shops at Arbor Trails. Snooze’s menu features a variety of breakfast fares, including classic breakfast plates, biscuits and gravy, omelettes, breakfast tacos and burritos, pancakes, French toast, eggs Benedicts and more. • Opening April 3 • 4301 W. William Cannon Drive, Bldg. H, Ste. 105, Austin • www.snoozeeatery.com

In the news

8 Alamo Austin Air Local HVAC provider Alamo Austin Air is celebrating 20 years of serving the Austin area. The company was founded in 2006 and is owned by Jason Krieg. • 8819 Jim Davis Place, Austin • www.alamoaustinair.com 9 Precision Camera and Video The camera equipment business is celebrating its fth anniversary in Southwest Austin this March. In addition to selling equipment, the team also oers classes and events, such as beginner classes and one-on-one instruction. • 9600 S. I-35 frontage road, Austin • www.precision-camera.com 10 Gabriela’s The Mexican food restaurant has been serving Southpark Meadows for ve years this spring. The menu features margaritas, appetizers, wings, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas and more. • 9600 S. I-35 frontage road, Ste. B-500, Austin • Instagram: GabrielasSouthAustin 11 South Austin Cat Hospital South Austin Cat Hospital, run by Austin’s only board-

certied feline specialist, is undergoing an expansion to oer more space and services. The expansion will include upgraded exam areas and new diagnostic and treatment capabilities. The expansion is expected to be complete by fall of 2026, according to the clinic’s website. • 11215 S. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 109, Austin • www.southaustincathospital.com Smokey Mo’s BBQ The fast-casual barbecue franchise has signed a four- unit area development agreement in Southwest Austin, meaning four new, separate locations. The agreement was signed by Cody and Stephen Cox, who are still in the process of vetting real estate options.

• Address TBD • www.smokeymosbbq.com

Closings

14 GameStop The video game chain recently closed several Austin- area locations, including in South Austin and Cedar Park. GameStop oers new and used video games, trade-ins, trading cards and more. • Closed in January • 500 E Ben White Blvd., Ste. 1000, Austin

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Impacts

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• Opened Jan. 1 • 13341 W. Hwy. 290, Bldg. 2, Ste. 139, Dripping Springs • www.texastrustlaw.com 3 Suds Brothers The locally owned express car wash oers single washes, unlimited wash passes and family plans. • Opened March 11 • 610 W. Hwy. 290, Dripping Springs • www.sudsbrosds.com

Coming soon

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In the news

4 Turcotte Butchers & Delicatessen Owners Erik and Christin Turcotte have served Dripping Springs for ve years. • 100 Commons Road, Ste. 9, Dripping Springs • www.turcottebutchers.com

Dripping Springs

6 The A l ley A new location of the chain tea shop is coming to Ledgestone. The Alley serves a curated selection of teas, freshly prepared tapioca and housemade cane syrup. The business has several locations across Texas, including at 5400 Brodie Lane, Ste. 1010, Austin. • Grand opening March 28 • 12400 Hwy. 290, Ste. 230, Dripping Springs • www.the-alley.us

Now open 1 Ritzy Rexann The store oers an variety of clothing and accessories. • Opened Jan. 13 • 12013 W. Hwy. 290, Austin • www.ritzyrexann.com

Closings

5 Apogee Dripping Springs Apogee will close its doors at the end of this spring. • Closing May 29 • 26650 RR 12, Dripping Springs

2 Texas Trust L aw Brad Wiewel owns the estate planning law rm.

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Government

BY MICHAEL MILLIORN & BEN THOMPSON

Audit probes city consultant usage

Hays County to conduct water study Hays County ocials approved the rst countywide water study since 2011 in January. What’s happening The water study will combine updated data, ood assessments, infrastructure evaluations and resident input to help guide local ocials as they work to support growth and maintain sustainable water resources. Hays County’s population additions increased development pressure over the last decade, while the region faces water challenges like drought conditions and a possible moratorium on some new develop- ment with high water use. The HDR Engineers Inc. study will cost up to $542,360 with nal results expected after an 11-month period. Public updates are anticipated throughout the process.

Consultant spending Consulting services across city departments cost nearly $300 million in less than three years.

$120M $100M $80M $60M $40M $20M $0

$102.64M

$94.69M

$81.97M

A new city audit probed Austin’s frequent use of third-party contractors, including unclear justica- tions and reporting on work that recently cost nearly $300 million in less than three years. “The city may not be able to show why consultant services were needed or how they were used,” Audit Manager Keith Salas said. The overview Contracting with consultants is common in Austin, with Salas noting that “virtually all” city departments are spending on third-party support. The March audit, based on a sample of recent contracts, found the city typically didn’t evaluate whether to complete work internally; often didn’t fully document deliverables or complete per- formance evaluations; and sometimes accepted inaccurate or incomplete follow-up information.

*CITY FISCAL YEARS RUN FROM OCTOBERSEPTEMBER. FY 202425 DATA THROUGH JULY ONLY. SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT 2022-23 2023-24

2024-25*

The approach Salas said auditors determined the city’s nancial services oce should set clearer guidance for departments to conduct needs assessments before seeking third-party help. They also proposed requiring performance evaluations for all contracts and better maintaining relevant documentation. The nance department agreed with the ndings and recommended xes, and plans to update its processes by October, according to the audit.

Austin to start recurring 3rd-party eciency reviews Austin ocials authorized continuous third-party audits of citywide operations and services, a process partly prompted by a failed tax rate election. The gist

“We don’t know of any other city that’s doing it this way where it’s a systemic, citywide, ongoing, independent eciency

The audit will analyze Austin’s government organization, public programs and services, third-party contracting practices, and nancial comparisons to peer cities. Public progress reports will be made at least semiannually, and all project recommendations, results and other information will be posted online. As improvements are suggested, city leaders will have to detail how changes will be made.

assessment or audit. And never before has Austin done this.” KIRK WATSON, MAYOR

The city auditor’s oce is now tasked with start- ing up and overseeing the ongoing “comprehensive eciency assessment” program, to be handled independently by an external consultant.

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Election

BY ELLE BENT

Dripping Springs voters to weigh in on two contested seats

Dripping Springs voters will have the chance to weigh in on two seats on Dripping Springs City Council this May election. This will include council seats Place 1 and Place 2. Mayor Bill Foulds

the nomination to Rob McClelland, who will face o with Angie Unger in November. Looking back Dripping Springs City Council has not had a contested race since May 2021. Keep in mind The May 2 election does not include the primary runo election, which will take place on May 26. What to bring Voters must bring one form of identication: • A Texas driver license • A Texas personal ID card • A Texas handgun license • A Texas election ID certicate • A U.S. military ID card with photograph • A U.S. citizenship certicate with photograph • A U.S. passport

Key Dates to Know

Last day to register to vote: April 2, 2026 Early voting window: First day: April 20, 2026. Last day: April 28, 2026 Mail ballot request deadline (received): April 20, 2026

is uncontested. The breakdown

Dripping Springs City Council is composed of a mayor and ve council members. The ve council places do not represent geographic districts. Each council member is elected at-large and represents the entire community. Voters will elect council members in Places 2 and 4 to serve a two year term. To view Community Impact’s questionnaire with each candidate, see page 12. Also of note Incumbent WM. Travis Crow recently ran in the primary election as for the Hays County Precinct 4 commissioner election as a Republican. Crow lost

Election Day voting hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 2

Sample ballot Dripping Springs City Council, Place 2 Ana Grace Husted Wade King* Dripping Springs City Council, Place 4 Mitch Royer WM. Travis Crow*

*INCUMBENT

SOURCE: HAYS COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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Election

BY SIENNA WIGHT

KEY: *Incumbent

Dripping Springs City Council, Place 2

Why are you running for Dripping Springs City Council? I’m running because Dripping Springs is growing quickly, and we need thoughtful planning to protect what makes our community special. After years of attending council meetings and working on local policy, I’m prepared to help manage growth responsibly, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure city decisions reflect the priorities of residents.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city, and how would you address it? The biggest challenge is managing growth while maintaining infrastructure, water reliability, and quality of life. I support proactive planning, responsible development decisions, and coordination with regional partners. The city must ensure infrastructure keeps pace with growth and make data-driven decisions that protect long-term sustainability for residents and businesses. I would say traffic congestion is a very large challenge but this is primarily on TxDOT to handle. We build smaller city streets anywhere we can like Roger Hanks Parkway and Village Grove to ease congestion, but ultimately it’s on TxDOT to plan the expansion of major arteries.

Ana Grace Husted Occupation & experience: Director of Advocacy and Outreach; City Council Policy Advisor; Legislative Advocacy Statewide/Local; Ordinance Drafting www.anagracefordrippingsprings.com Wade King* Occupation & experience: Safety Coordinator on Oak Hill Parkway Project, 14 years on Dripping Springs City Council

I am running for re-election because it gives me great joy to serve the citizens of Dripping Springs that I have known and/or developed relationships with, over the last 35 years living in Dripping Springs.

Dripping Springs City Council, Place 4

What is the biggest challenge facing the city, and how would you address it? Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.

Why are you running for Dripping Springs City Council? Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.

Wm. Travis Crow* Occupation & experience: Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.

Since moving to Texas 13 years ago, I’ve wanted to be deeply involved in the community. This opportunity allows me to directly serve the city I love, working with and for the people of Dripping Springs to move our community forward while protecting what makes it special.

Keeping pace with the city’s growth is critical. This includes improving roads and traffic flow, strengthening community connection, and addressing infrastructure needs. Water is a major concern, and through responsible planning and collaboration, I believe we can find solutions that meet the needs of our growing community.

Mitch Royer Occupation & experience: Project manager, years of community outreach with nonprofits and churches nationwide, large-scale community event production 512-710-7220

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

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Incumbent Election results breakdown Southwest Austin and Dripping Springs voters weighed in on federal, state and local races in March. These results include local races only. Visit https://communityimpact.com/voter-guide to see results from all contested elections in your community. Winner R Republican D Democrat For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Headed to runoff

6.46% Gavino Fernandez Jr. 35.62% Susanna Ledesma Woody 37.06% George Morales III 20.86% Ofelia Maldonado Zapata Travis County Commissioner, Precinct 4 D D D D 55.95% Mariel Kelley 44.05% Robert Slagle Travis County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2 D D

Hays County Judge

Local Elections

49.14% Ruben Becerra 45.42% Michelle Gutierrez Cohen 5.43% Joel W. Martin

54.50% Alfonso O. Salazar 45.50% Landon Bryan Campbell Hays County Criminal District Attorney D D

D D

Hays County Commissioner, Precinct 4

5.46% Reese Ricci Armstrong 30.72% Amanda Marzullo 6.35% Rick Astray-Caneda III 57.47% Brigid Shea Travis County Commissioner, Precinct 2 D D D D

33.88% WM. Travis Crow 66.12% Rob McClelland

50.56% Angie Unger 49.44% Laurie Brown

SOURCES: HAYS COUNTY, TRAVIS COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Education

BY SIENNA WIGHT & CHLOE YOUNG

Nonprot may take over 3 Austin middle schools Texas Council for International Studies may begin operating Burnet, Dobie and Webb middle schools next school year. 1 Dobie Middle School 2 Burnet Middle School 3 Webb Middle School

DSISD bond projects making progress Dripping Springs ISD ocials will move forward with several bond-funded projects. The overview DSISD is working to renovate campuses. Approved action items on Feb. 23 included: • Construction documents for the Rooster Springs Elementary renovation project • Guaranteed Maximum Price No. 2 for the Rooster Springs Elementary renovation project • Construction documents for the Dripping Springs High School renovation project The funding The renovations were funded by Propo- sition A of the 2025 voter-approved bond, which allocated $76.9 million.

The Austin ISD board of trustees is expected to vote on a three-year contract with TCIS at a March 26 meeting, after press time. The educa- tional nonprot specializes in the International Baccalaureate program and works with Region 1 Education Service Center. The background The nonprot partnership comes after Burnet, Dobie and Webb each received their fourth consecutive F rating in 2025. If a campus receives ve or more consecutive failed ratings, the Texas Education Agency commissioner must close the campus or take over the district. This school year, the district restarted the three middle schools by hiring new principals and teachers who were required to meet certain performance criteria.

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The impact Under Senate Bill 1882, school districts can receive additional funding and a two-year exemp- tion from state accountability interventions by partnering with a charter school or nonprot. TCIS helped San Antonio ISD campuses boost their accountability ratings.

Austin ISD ocials look to cut costs by $39M to reduce budget shortfall

Austin ISD ocials are aiming to reduce expenses over time and increase savings, known as fund balance. What’s happening The district is planning to make $39 million in cuts this scal year to lower a projected $136 million shortfall to $49 million.

The backstory The projected shortfall has increased from $111 million to $136 million after a $26 million land sale didn’t go through this scal year, Chief Financial Ocer Katrina Montgomery said. Community pushback and pending litigation has slowed plans to sell the former Rosedale School campus to a multifamily housing developer.

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Transportation

Development

BY SIENNA WIGHT

BY BEN THOMPSON

Fitzhugh Park buildout continues Development of the Fitzhugh Park com- mercial complex is continuing. The details Spread across multiple buildings, the space is marketed as a project that could house retail, oces, manufacturing facilities, studios and other commercial spaces. Warehouse units from 2,000-20,000 square feet are available across some of the com- plex’s 11 total buildings.

St. David’s breaks ground on southern expansion The $180 million St. David’s South Austin Medi- cal Center expansion broke ground March 2, ahead of construction on the project’s four-story patient tower later this year. The details The new tower will include a 30-bed patient care unit, 20-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit, four new operating rooms with shell space for future OR expansion, an eight-bed pre- and post-surgical unit, a seven-bay post-anesthesia care unit, and new lobby and waiting areas. The development will also feature new utility infrastructure, a sterile process- ing department and shell space for future additions. In March, construction on infrastructure support- ing the future tower kicked o at the medical center located at 901 W. Ben White Blvd., Austin. While some parking has been blocked o due to construction, the hospital’s main and emergency

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Ongoing projects

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department entrances remain open. Campus CEO Charles Laird said the project was specically designed to meet the changing needs of the surrounding community. “As South Austin continues to grow, we’re responding with an investment that expands access to surgical, rehabilitation and inpatient care, while strengthening the infrastructure that supports our clinical teams,” he said in a statement. The expansion is expected to be completed next year, according to St. David’s ocials.

1 Slaughter Lane Corridor Improvements

183 2 Oak Hill Parkway Project: The 7-mile stretch of highway has been undergoing a $677 million facelift since 2021, transforming the existing four-lane, undivided roadway to a six-lane divided highway with new frontage roads, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Update: U-turn lanes over Hwy. 290 are scheduled to open March 24.

Project: Mobility and safety improvements along Slaughter Lane between MoPac and Brodie Lane. Update: As of March 12, there are two lanes open in each direction from MoPac to Brodie Lane, with ongoing construction. Work has begun on the shared-use path westbound from Brodie Lane. • Timeline: 2025-2027 (total project) • Cost: $23 million (total project) • Funding sources: city of Austin 2016 Mobility Bond

CRUMLEY RANCH RD.

MOPAC

• Timeline: 2022-26 (total project) • Cost: $677 million (total project) • Funding source: TxDOT

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BRODIE LANE 4970 W Hwy 290 (512) 366-8260 BEE CAVE 13015 Shops Pkwy (512) 263-9981

SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 S I-35 Frontage Rd (512) 280-7400

DRIPPING SPRINGS 166 Hargraves (512) 432-0186

MoPac South expansion heads to public review From the cover

Breaking it down

How we got here

The 2C conguration features northbound and southbound express lanes from Cesar Chavez to the Barton Skyway via an elevated, wishbone-shaped ramp, which Mobility Authority ocials say will eliminate vehicle weaving and allow for multiple downtown exit options. The conguration also includes two express lanes from Barton Skyway to Convict Hill Road, one express lane from Convict Hill Road to Slaughter Lane, and other improvements, such as a shared- use path connecting the Roberta Crenshaw Bridge over Lady Bird Lake to Slaughter Lane. According to Mobility Authority documents, the agency has incorporated community input collected over the years into 2C’s design, including: • Adding a direct connection at US 290, a col- lector-distributor road from Barton Skyway to Loop 360, and a south-to-north U-turn at Barton Skyway • Lengthening the turn lane leading to the U-turn at Loop 360 • Adding more bike and pedestrian crossings on each side of the corridor, and widening or relocat- ing shared-use paths Mobility Authority documents also state 2C considers emergency vehicle response times, noting current shoulder widths are too narrow for adequate response and could worsen as the region grows.

“While there is much work to be done on gathering and responding to public comments, we look forward to fullling the community request for the Mobility Authority to sponsor this environmental study,” Mobility Authority Executive Director James Bass said. The study utilizes the recommended build alternative 2C conguration that proposes building one to two express lanes in each direction between Cesar Chavez and Slaughter, despite some pushback from the community regarding its environmental and trac impacts. Five other congurations and a no-build alternative were studied, but the Mobility Authority said 2C reects public feedback and is expected to reduce travel delays by 2045.

For over a decade, the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority has spearheaded an $825 million project along 8.77 miles of MoPac South between Cesar Chavez Street and Slaughter Lane. Mobility Authority ocials said MoPac South is consistently ranked among the most congested roadways in Texas. In 2013, the agency and the Texas Department of Transportation initiated an environmental study of the corridor to identify options to improve mobility and safety. While the project has faced various delays in the years since, the Mobility Authority held six open houses before publishing the project’s draft environmental assessment Feb. 13.

MoPac South expansion 1 MoPac at Saughter Lane 2 MoPac at Convict Hi Road 3 MoPac at US-290 4 MoPac at Barton Skyway

360

BARTON SKYWAY

LADY BIRD LAKE

290

ESCARPMENT BLVD.

Elevated express lane ramps

MOPAC

1826

Scan the QR code to see an animated video ythrough of what changes the recommended build alternative 2C would bring to MoPac South between Slaughter Lane and Cesar Chavez Street.

CONVICT HILL RD.

N MAP NOT TO SCALE

SOURCE: CENTRAL TEXAS REGIONAL MOBILITY AUTHORITYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

RENDERING COURTESY CENTRAL TEXAS REGIONAL MOBILITY AUTHORITY

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Stay tuned

Put in perspective

MoPac South travel times in 2045 By 2045, the 2C express lanes could cut northbound travel times by 60% and southbound travel times by 64%. Northbound morning peak hours 2C general-purpose lanes 16 minutes 2C express lanes 8 minutes No-build alternative 20 minutes Southbound evening peak hours 2C general-purpose lanes 17 minutes 2C express lanes 8 minutes No-build alternative 22 minutes

The Mobility Authority’s virtual public hearing for the draft environmental assessment opened March 9 and will run through May 3. The agency also held an in-person public hearing March 24, after press time.

2C is also being evaluated against a no-build, or “do nothing” alternative. According to the Mobility Authority, by 2045 the 2C express lanes would save drivers 12 minutes during northbound morning peak hours of 7-9 a.m. and 14 minutes during southbound evening peak hours of 4-6:30 p.m., compared to the no-build alternative. The general-purpose lanes would save drivers four minutes northbound and ve minutes southbound. Bobby Levinski, senior sta attorney with Save Our Springs Alliance, said construction generates a signicant amount of trac itself, and expanding road capacity only increases vehicle miles traveled. “That’s the opposite direction I think a lot of people are trying to get the city to head, which is ... trying to work towards trac demand management solutions where we can have some alternatives to just highway expansion,” Levinski said. “I think a lot of people are asking, is it really worth it?”

Get involved Community members can provide public comment on the draft environmental assessment through May 3 via the following:

Online at ph.mopacsouth.com

By mail to Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority, c/o MoPac South, 3300 N. IH-35, Suite 300, Austin, 78705 In a three-minute-maximum voicemail at 512-387-5811

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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Events

BY ELLE BENT

Old Settler’s Music Festival Central Texans will gather to celebrate Americana music traditions, enjoy performances and eat local food at the 39th annual Old Settler’s Music Festival. • April 17-29 • $55 and up (tickets) • 18301 RM 1826, Driftwood • www.oldsettlersmusicfest.org Dripping Springs Founders Day Dripping Springs community members will gather together to play games, eat local food, listen to live music and enjoy carnival rides to celebrate the founding of the city. • April 24-26 • Free (admission) • Mercer Street, Dripping Springs • www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/founders-day Introduction to Rainwater Harvesting Attendees will learn from local experts about the benefits of rainwater harvesting and how to start a system at home. • April 28, 1-2:30 p.m. • Free • Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church, 26650 RR 12, Dripping Springs • https://bit.ly/4rzzihu

April

STAPLE! Independent Media Expo The two-day festival will feature more than 100 independent exhibitors showcasing comics, zines, artwork and tabletop games. • April 11-12 • $15 and up (tickets) • 3001 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.staple-austin.org Meanwhile Farmers Market Shop local vendors offering seasonal produce, flowers, pastries and more. • April 12, 10 a.m.-2 pm. • Free (admission) • 3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin • www.meanwhilebeer.com Mama Betty’s Golf Classic The 18-hole tournament will support Flatwater, a nonprofit providing access to mental health services for those affected by a cancer diagnosis. • April 13, 10 a.m. (shotgun start) • $105-$1,500 • 2510 Onion Creek Parkway, Austin • http://bit.ly/4rwrqxn

Sunset Valley Artfest The 18th annual festival hosted by the City of Sunset Valley Arts Commission offers over 120 artisans showcasing their handmade work. In addition, the event features live music, local food trucks and an area for children’s interactive activities. • April 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Toney Burger Center, 3200 Jones Road, Austin • www.sunsetvalley.gov/visitors/sunset-valley-artfest

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Events

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Dripping Springs changes festival for 37th annual Founders Day From April 24-26, Dripping Springs community members will gather together to play games, eat local food, listen to live music and enjoy one of the city’s biggest annual celebrations. Although the festival will look a little dierent this year, city ocials say that they’re keeping “tradition alive.” What you need to know The biggest change to the festival is the parade. While previous years have featured a driving parade with oats, a walking parade will take its place this April. Mayor Bill Foulds said this change was made due to safety concerns. Narrow roads, increased participants and other factors were noted as potential safety risks by city ocials. Foulds said this isn’t a permanent change. City ocials are considering dierent options to bring back the oat parade in future years. What else The carnival will also look dierent this year, relocating to Dripping Springs ISD property, across from city hall. “It’ll go further back so it’ll be a bigger carnival, which will be nice,” Foulds said in a podcast about the changes. What they’re saying Community response has been mixed, with many residents expressing disappointment with the change to the parade. Foulds said he shares their frustration, but that the safety is top priority.

Founders Day Festival will be held April 2426.

PHOTOS COURTESY GOODJAY DESIGNCITY OF DRIPPING SPRINGS

Founders Day road closures

WALLACE ST.

MERCER ST.

290

SAN MARCOS ST.

BLUFF ST.

COLLEGE ST.

The carnival portion of the festival will be larger this year, according to Mayor Bill Foulds.

www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/founders-day

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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Nonpro t

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Old Settler’s celebrates Americana music What started as a one-day bluegrass event in Round Rock has grown, rebranded and relocated several times over the years. Despite these shifts, the mission of Old Settler’s Music Festival has remained the same: to bring a legacy of Ameri- can roots music to a new age of listeners while preserving a strong culture of community. From April 17-19, Central Texans will gather to celebrate Americana music traditions, enjoy performances and eat local food at the 39th annual Old Settler’s Music Festival. The big picture Old Settler’s is a nonprot organization. As part of the foundation’s mission, the festival hosts a youth talent competition every year. Participants receive mentorship from music-industry profes- sionals and the opportunity to build their con- dence on stage. Winners are invited to perform at

Old Settler’s Music Festival organizers will welcome guests to the 39th annual festival from April 1719.

COURTESY ALEJANDRA GUTIRREZOLD SETTLER’S MUSIC FESTIVAL

the festival the following year. “We’re very proud of this program,” Old Settler’s Music Festival President Betsy Boone said. “It’s a great way to help our youth and to support their career in the music industry.” Digging in deeper Attendees can camp for the weekend or go out for the day with a day pass to Camp Ben McCulloch. The festival also oers tent rentals and RV hookups.

1826

967

150

18301 RM 1826, Driftwood www.oldsettlersmusicfest.org

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Business

BY DACIA GARCIA

The business sells and repairs cellos, basses, violins, violas, ddles and ukuleles.

Owner Todd Sloan joined the business in 2011 and purchased it from his father in 2012.

PHOTOS BY DACIA GARCIACOMMUNITY IMPACT

Westbank String Shop strengthens orchestra legacy

For over three decades, Westbank String Shop has provided local students with aordable options to continue their music journeys. From partnering with school orchestra programs and oering scholarships to students, owner Todd Sloan has made it his mission to make an impact in the growing orchestra world. A family aair Sloan’s father, David W. Sloan, launched the business out of his garage before relocating to its current location on Menchaca Road. David was inspired to expand the options for kids looking to step into the classical music scene. After retiring from his role as the orchestra coordinator for Westlake High School, he took courses at New Hampshire School of Violin Making and started the business by buying German violins from pawn shops around town. In 2011, Sloan joined his father at the business and purchased the shop from him a year later when his father retired. “We’ve devoted all this time into growing and being the best value,” Sloan said. “We serve families and kids. We don’t serve teachers. We don’t serve school systems. That’s a really big part of who we are.” Learn more The space features a rent-to-own program where for 10 months 100% of a customer’s payment goes toward the full-size instrument and after this time

period, 70% of the payment will go toward the instrument until the customer owns it or buys it out. The shop also partners with the University of Texas String Project, Texas State String Project and the University of Texas jazz program. Sloan said they also underwrite all of the string work for Huston-Tillotson University. During the coronavirus pandemic, the shop lost 74% of its business and is now back to its num- bers before 2020. “I’m proud of that really,” Sloan said. “We work hard on this end to keep kids excited and keep them digging what they’re doing—hoping that just continues to grow.” The impact As customers walk into the shop they can expect to nd violins, violas and ukuleles hanging throughout the lobby with cellos and basses perched on display. Accompanying the instru- ments are an assortment of letters and drawings expressing appreciation for Sloan’s services helping students in the area. While playing a gig at The Continental Club, Sloan was approached by a former customer and student who shared how he impacted her life. “She came over with a friend and we started talking and she goes, ‘You’re the reason that I’m an orchestra director,’” Sloan said. “ She came in 10th grade to quit because she didn’t like her director and I talked her into sleeping on it.”

The business was founded by David W. Sloan in 1995 with his son purchasing the business in 2012.

The shop displays many notes from current and past students that have used their services.

WEST GATE BLVD.

6301 Menchaca Road, Austin www.westbankstringshop.com

SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Short-Term Rehab and Long-Term Care Helping Austin get back to living life at its fullest

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Real estate

Less Southwest Austin and Dripping Springs homes sold in February 2026 compared to February 2025, according to Unlock MLS data. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

February 2025 February2026

+8.3%

-66.67%

-8.7%

+6.25%

78735

78736

78737

78739

360

78749

MOPAC

Median home sales price

78735

78736

February

2025

2026

78745

815,000 419,900 696,650 817,500 450,000 427,000 552,500 594,495

725,000 475,000 695,000 750,000 460,500 402,500 589,900 599,900

78735 78736 78737 78739 78745 78748 78749 78620

78748

78737

78739

Southwest Austin - Dripping Springs

February

2025

2026

New listings

+34.4% Average days on the market

360

351

-48.33%

-21.88%

+140%

Closed sales

191

176

Homes under contract

243

254

78735

78736

78737

78739

Total dollar volume sold

$122.45M $107.11M

Homes sold by price point in February

Median sale price

$565,000 $564,999

78735

78736

78737

78739

$900,000+

$700,000-$899,999

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

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

<$299,999

SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

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