South Central Austin Edition | April 2025

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

South Central Austin Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 1 MAY 130, 2025

Swim season shrinks As drought deepens, local swimming holes feel eects

INSIDE

Also in this issue

Lost Creek, a popular swimming spot just west of Austin, draws locals looking to cool o as summer temperatures approach. (Haley McLeod/Community Impact)

Austin ISD considers school closures—learn more Education

Page 16

Discover our local guide to spring cleaning this season Community Page 18

LEARN ABOUT AUSTIN’S Water Quality We’re Continuously Sampling and Testing

Austin Water collects and tests samples at our treatment plants and across our water system multiple times a day, every day, for bacteria, and chemicals that could pose a risk to our customers. Our top priority is to ensure our water is safe and satisfying to drink. We have taken steps to protect drinking water safety and quality in key areas that include: 6 Protecting Vital Infrastructure 6 Enhancing Treatment Reliability 6 Ensuring Quality Control in Storage, Pressure and Pipes 6 Increasing Treated Drinking Water Testing An expanded snapshot of our rigorous quality controls is posted on our website as well as in our annual Drinking Water Quality Report. Find the 2024 Consumer Confidence Report online at the link below , or call 512-972-0155 to receive a copy by email or mail. Austin Water’s annual consumer confidence report describes the overall quality of water from its raw collection and storage to the treated purity at your tap. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that all drinking water suppliers provide a water quality report to their customers on an annual basis.

Austin Water Quality Report 2024 AUSTINWATER.ORG/WATERQUALITY Para una versión en Español llame al 512-972-0155.

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SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Jonathan Mason, DO Sports Medicine Specialist, Musculoskeletal Institute

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About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Jacquelyn Burrer Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Jamie Moore Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Abigail Hines Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Schaer

Krista Box General Manager kbox@ communityimpact.com

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

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Impacts

North Central Austin

NORTH AUSTIN

BY ELLE BENT, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & HALEY MCLEOD

• Relocating in summer • 11055 N. I-35, Austin • www.ntrocks.com

Coming soon

N. I35 FRONTAGE RD.

In the News

5 Thundercloud Subs Austin grown Thundercloud Subs celebrated its 50th anniversary in March. The business was founded in 1975 by Andy Cotton and John Meddaugh, with its rst location on Lavaca Street. • Locations vary • www.thundercloud.com 6 Chili’s Chili’s celebrated its 50th anniversary in March. The franchise was founded in Dallas in March 1975 and has now expanded to over 1,600 locations in 28 counties.

MOPAC

2 Citizens A new all-day, Australian-style cafe will oer breakfast, lunch and dinner. The new location on Burnet Road marks the brand’s rst location in Austin. Co-owner Justin Giurida said it’s a spot where guests can start their day with avocado toast and end it with an espresso martini. • Opening in April • 4818 Burnet Road, Austin • www.citizensofbreakfast.com

290

BURNET RD.

• Locations vary • www.chilis.com

E. 53RD ST.

7 Foreign & Domestic The farm-to-table restaurant is celebrating 15 years in the North Loop area this spring. Founded in 2010, the restaurant focuses on locally sourced and sustainable food. The menu rotates seasonally and features dishes crafted from local, farm-fresh produce. The wine list includes selection from organic and small family-run vineyards. • 306 E. 53rd St., Austin • www.fndaustin.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE

3 Harper Sage After ve years of online sales, Harper Sage opened its agship brick-and-mortar women’s clothing store. • Opened in March • 4803 Burnet Road, Austin • www.harpersage.com

Closings

8 Thom’s Market After 18 years, the local grocer will surrender its three locations this month. Owner Bill Thomas is retiring and a new retailer will be taking over the storefronts. • Closed April 20 • 1418 Barton Springs Road, Austin; 160 E. Riverside Drive, Austin; 5901 Burnet Road, Austin

Now Open

Relocations

1 Kyoko Coee Patrick Lyle’s Kyoko Coee is a Japanese-inspired micro coee shop based out of a converted retro Honda minivan parked near the Highland Collective. • Opened in January • 6401 Airport Blvd., Austin • www.kyokocoffee.com

4 Nature’s Treasures Metaphysical store and rock shop Nature’s Treasures has started its relocation process, set for sometime this summer. For now, the business is still operating out of its original location at 4103 N. I-35, Austin.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Impacts

Downtown/West Campus

BY ELLE BENT, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & HALEY MCLEOD

Coming soon

Now open

6 Swedish Hill The Austin cafe, deli and bakery announced its fourth location will open downtown this fall. The business has a location in West Lake Hills, a smaller cafe on West Sixth Street and is working on other developments. • Opening this fall • 415 Colorado St., Austin • www.swedishhillaustin.com 7 Zeds Real Fruit Ice Cream The New Zealand-style ice cream shop will serve its blend of soft-serve vanilla ice cream mixed with fresh fruit. Zeds was originally founded in Oregon by The University of Texas at Austin graduates Matt Potter and Caleb Schmidt. • Opening in May • 2727 Exposition Blvd., Ste. 128, Austin • www.zedsicecream.com

WHEELER ST.

EXPOSITION BLVD.

WESTOVER RD.

3 Golden Boy The lunch spot landed at the Fareground Austin food hall in March, serving a rotation of seasonal dishes for midday eats. Led by James Beard and Michelin-trained chef Nick Middleton, the menu features lunches including bao, bowls and salads. • Opened in March

5 3 2

DRISKILL ST.

Relocations

• 111 Congress Ave., Austin • Instagram: goldenboyfood

8 Feels So Good The retailer and screen printing shop closed its Alpine location after five years due to an increase in rent, according to a social media post from the business. Feels So Good will now have a separate retail location from the production facility, where custom orders can be picked up at 9204 Brown Lane, Austin.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

4 Bungalow The bar reopened this spring about three years after it closed due to a high-rise development, according to a social media post. Bungalow returned to Rainey Street, down the street from its old location at the former Icenhauers spot. • Opened March 23 • 83 Rainey St., Austin • www.bungalowaustin.com 5 JABS Burgers and Fries The burger joint, formerly known as Peace, Love and Burgers, is now open at the Fareground Austin off

Now open

• 609 E. 7th St., Austin • www.fsgprints.com

1 Yoyo’s Hotdog The Houston-based hot dog restaurant is now open in the Dobie Food Court at The University of Texas at Austin. • Opened March 2 • 2021 Guadalupe St., Ste. 100, Austin • Instagram: yoyoshotdogshtx 2 Aburi Oshi Sushi The flame-seared sushi restaurant is now open at the

In the news

9 Wheatsville Food Co-op Wheatsville Food Co-op is preparing to shutter its location on Guadalupe Street sometime in late 2026. The news comes as company leaders announce a $4 million community-funded campaign venture to support future co-op grocery store locations in North Austin, an “evolution of Austin’s grocery economy,” a news release from the company states. • 3101 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.wheatsville.coop

Fareground Austin. • Opened in March

Congress Avenue. • Opened in March • 111 Congress Ave., Austin • Instagram: @eatjabs

• 111 Congress Ave., Austin • www.aburioshisushi.com

ARC Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) specialists provide diagnosis, treatment, and surgeries for chronic conditions such as: Ear, nose & throat care for the whole family

• Chronic sinusitis • Hearing problems • Sleep apnea & snoring

• Thyorid issues • ENT pediatric care • And more!

ARCentdoctor.com

SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Impacts

South Central Austin

BY DACIA GARCIA, SARAH HERNANDEZ & HALEY MCLEOD

Wanderlust Wine Co. The cafe opened its first location on Shirley Avenue in North Austin in January and serves only matcha drinks. • Opened Feb. 15 • 1601 Barton Springs Road, Austin • Instagram: lovelampmatcha

MOPAC

Now open

Coming soon

6 Lavender & Lemonade Lavender & Lemonade, from owner Aisha Devrouax, will be a “fusion space” offering made-to-order lemonade and limeade drinks with fresh fruit, coffees and teas, grab-and-go food items and a stem bar where guests can make personalized flower bouquets. • Opening in late summer • 2209 S. First St., Ste. 105, Austin • www.lavenlem.com

3 Dish Society The local farm-to-table all-day cafe opened in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood following the success of its first Austin location in the Mueller neighborhood in 2023. Owned by Aaron Lyons, Dish Society serves brunch, lunch and dinner using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from local farmers, producers and ranchers. • Opened March 25 • 1600 S. First St., Ste. 110, Austin • www.dishsociety.com

MENCHACA RD.

290

Relocations

WOODBURY DR.

7 Monkey See, Monkey Do! After 20 years on South Congress Avenue, toy shop Monkey See, Monkey Do! will relocate to Menchaca Road near South Lamar Boulevard, a move owner Brandon Hodge said is “voluntary and celebratory.” The novelty shop features a selection of toys, knick-knacks, games, apparel and more. Hodge also owns Big Top Candy Shop on South Congress, which is not relocating. • Relocating May 2 • 2810 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.instagram.com/msmdsoco

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• Opened March 8 • 1701 South Lamar Blvd., Austin • Instagram: dulcefridaatx

Now open

1 Banyan & Bamboo Day Spa & Med Spa The spa offers a range of beauty treatments, including facials and massage therapy. Owner Jennifer Rushing bought the existing day spa, Austin Urban Retreat, last year and has rebranded and relaunched it. • Opened April 2 • 3005 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. D112, Austin • www.banyanandbamboo.com 2 Dulce Frida The gelato trailer from owner Francisco Rosales opened its first brick-and-mortar location, serving Italian ice, lemonade, breakfast tacos and pancakes.

4 Mage’s Sanctum Local gaming and hobby store Mage’s Sanctum has reopened in a new location after closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The store carries everything from board games to card games and hosts events such as regularly scheduled Magic The Gathering tournaments. • Opened March 1 • 3924 Woodbury Drive, Ste. A, Austin • www.magessanctum.com 5 Love Lamp Matcha The matcha shop opened its second location above

In the news

SIMS Foundation The Austin nonprofit organization will celebrate its 30th anniversary in May. Founded in 1995 in memory of Austin musician Sims Ellison, the SIMS Foundation provides mental health and substance use recovery services and support for musicians, music industry professionals and their families. • www.simsfoundation.org

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290

Impacts

East Austin

BY ELLE BENT, SARAH HERNANDEZ & HALEY MCLEOD

EAST AUSTIN

Relocations

E. 46TH ST.

Now open

5 Sunshine Vinyl The local record store from Luca Kisielius is relocating to a new shared space with Pershing East Coffee and The Concord Botanical Cafe & Dispensary. Sunshine Vinyl opened in June at 1601 E. Fifth St., Austin, and offers new and used vinyl across a variety of genres. The business will celebrate with a grand reopening in May. • Relocating May 3

• 2501 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.sunshinevinyl.co

In the news

183 3 Parish Barbecue The barbecue food truck from pitmaster Holden Fulco opened in the backyard of Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches. Fulco is a former manager of Interstellar BBQ, who spent seven years at Franklin Barbecue and helped open Pinkerton’s Barbecue in downtown San Antonio. Pitmaster Jake Haygood is also on the team, with experience from Terry Black’s BBQ and Interstellar BBQ. • Opened March 28

6 HOPE Outdoor Gallery After closing six years ago near 24 Diner off North Lamar Boulevard, the graffiti art park will reopen in a 18-acre location near the Austin airport. The site will include a cultural events center, art park, technology gallery, cafe, art and more. • Near intersection of Dalton Lane and Giraffe Pen Road • www.hopecampaign.org/hope-outdoor-gallery

HERGOTZ LN.

• 3220 Manor Road, Austin • www.parishbarbecue.com

2 5

Closings

MAP NOT TO SCALE

7 U-Haul The retail, moving and storage center closed after 20 years in business due to the I-35 expansion project, according to a news release. Other U-Haul locations offering similar services are located at 4021 N. I-35, Austin, or 5412 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin. • Closed March 31 • 1032 E. 46th St., Austin • www.uhaul.com 8 Cafe Corazon ATX The cafe, known for its specialty coffees and cookies, permanently closed in April, citing multiple reasons including rising costs. Cafe Corazon opened in January 2024. • Closed April 12 • 1701 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Ste. 103, Austin • https://cafe-corazon.square.site 973 130 TOLL

Vinyl. The business offers beverages that can be infused with CBD, caffeine, THC and more, as well as products containing CBD or THC. The cafe can also be found off East Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. • Opening May 3

Coming soon

1 The Back Nine Golf Local golfers will soon get to play some of the world’s best golf courses virtually at The Back Nine’s first Austin location. The local franchise is owned by Vincent Cipriano, who said he wanted to create a “third space” for people passionate about golf. • Opening in May • 2023 Airport Blvd., Austin • www.thebackninegolf.com/eastaustintx 2 The Concord Botanical Cafe & Dispensary A second location of The Concord is opening this May, in a shared space with Pershing East Coffee and Sunshine 71

• 2501 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.ridetheconcord.com

4 Breeze Oral Care A new dental office from Breeze will open in East Austin, offering only hygienic care. Other offices are located off South Lamar Boulevard and North Lamar Boulevard. • Opening in summer • 1300 E. Fifth St., Ste. C, Austin • www.breezeoralcare.com

SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Let us help you Austin ISD 2025-26 Enrollment is open? Did you know

Drop by to explore our schools and programs and enroll here!

ON VIEW THROUGH April 24 , 2025

austinisd.org/enroll

Ernest Smith (Tonawanda Seneca, Heron Clan, 1907-1975), Progress, 1935. Courtesy of RMSC, Rochester, NY

Sponsored by the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Hall Fund.

The Bullock Museum, a division of the Texas State Preservation Board, is funded by Museum members, donors, and patrons, the Texas State History Museum Foundation, and the State of Texas.

This exhibition has been organized by The New York Historical. Lead support for Acts of Faith: Religion and the American West is provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Major support is provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Research for this exhibition was supported by the Terra Foundation for American Art.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON

Austin now requires AC for all housing All Austin residents are now required to have access to air conditioning in their homes or apartments. The big picture There is currently no statewide standard for housing in Texas to oer residential cooling. While some cities have adopted their own air conditioning rules, the city of Austin didn’t yet review of dozens of cases handled from 2021-22 is a rst in the city, and nationwide, meant to improve police work including interactions with victims. Similar processes and public reporting will now take place annually. “We hope our proactive approach and ongoing eorts to improve the experience and outcome for sexual assault survivors will serve as an example to other units and agencies throughout the nation,” Police Chief Lisa Davis wrote in March. The approach A recent audit of APD’s sexual assault responses called for the case analyses, alongside dozens of other updates. City ocials boosted funding for APD responses and victim services in 2023 including $100,000 for the rst case review. EVAWI credited aspects of APD’s investigations based on “unprecedented” access to case les, and proposed revisions to training, documentation, data collection and communications. Hanna Senko—a plainti the city settled with Austin sex crime reforms ongoing after in-depth case review An inaugural review of Austin sex crimes cases is leading to several improvements to police investigations. What happened The analysis conducted by nonprot End Violence Against Women International followed extensive scrutiny of APD’s mishandling of sex crimes and a nearly $900,000 legal settlement with survivors. Austin Police Department leaders said the

Public defenders seeking higher pay Members of the Travis County Public Defender’s Oce told county commission- ers that their initial Counsel at First Appear- ance, or CAFA, investment isn’t enough as sta pay is lower than similar positions in Central Texas and statewide. What happened CAFA—representation post-arrest and during bail-setting regardless of ability to pay—has moved through stops and starts in recent years. County ocials earmarked $15.5 million to expand the program this scal year, funding dozens of new positions. Legal sta packed a late March commis- sioners court meeting to voice concerns over aspects of CAFA’s recent implementation, with public defense advocates said pay dynamics devalue their work. Georey Burkhart, county executive for Community Legal Services, said his oce could use funding from unlled positions to raise salaries and address pay disparities.

Road to reform The Austin Police Department’s work with sex crimes cases has been under city and third-party scrutiny for years.

2019

Jan. 2019: Audit nds Austin police improperly closed rape cases, City Council calls for third-party police review

2020

Jan. 2024: City ocials publicly apologize for mishandling cases Sept. 2023: Council funds case review, Sex Crimes Unit audit Early 2023: Collective Sex Crimes Response Model project launches to oversee reforms Nov. 2022: Third-party evaluation recommends more than 100 changes for sex crime investigations Jan. 2022: Council approves $875,000 settlement with sexual assault survivors with improvement plan

2022

2023

2024

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

who’s now helping to oversee local reforms—noted the signicance of the changes for victims. “For any sexual assault survivor, going through the process of reporting can be dicult regardless of how much implementation that we put in place for improvement,” she said. “It’s things like this case review that’s going to ensure that that can occur for every survivor that comes forward, and continue to improve year over year.”

“The future of indigent defense in Travis County is kneecapped when we cannot retain and develop great attorneys.” AMALIA BECKNER, TRAVIS COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

have one in place. Amid record heat in summer 2023, ocials asked to lay out new rules ensuring all Austinites can keep their homes cooled to comfortable and safe levels. Last year, local hospitals handles nearly 900 emergency room visits for heat-related illness and a total of 15 people dies due to heat over the course of the summer, according to Austin Public Health. The details Austin property owners must provide equip- ment to keep indoor temperatures at least 15 degrees cooler than outside, and below 85 degrees

at all times, in every habitable room of existing housing units. They’ll also be required to keep air conditioning systems and related equipment in working condition. City sta will work with property owners on meeting the new requirement, which will go into eect this summer. Sta also said the change will not signicantly aect housing aordability or development costs in the city. Residents who believe a building is out of com- pliance can le complaints through Austin 3-1-1 for investigation by the Development Services Department’s Code Compliance team.

SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Water WATER SAVIN

WaterWise Landscape Rebate 6 Austin Water customers who replace a minimum of 200 sq feet of healthy turf grass with native plant beds may be eligible for $100 per 100 square feet, up to $3,000 in rebates. Landscape Survival Tools Rebates 6 By using a combination of mulch, compost and core aeration of your lawn, you will be prepared for the damage that an Austin summer can do to your yard. These techniques will ensure that water stays on your yard, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation.

y Compost: 2 cubic yards or 54 cubic feet Rebate $50 y Mulch: 2 cubic yards or 54 cubic feet Rebate $40 y Core aeration service for entire front and/or back lawn area (equipment rental is acceptable) Rebate $30 y Maximize your rebate by doing all three $120

austinwater.org

WaterWise Rainscape Rebate 6 The Rainscape Rebate Program helps residents install landscape features (berms, terraces, swales, rain gardens, porous pavement, etc.) to keep and beneficially use rainwater on the property. The rebate pays $0.50 for every square foot (100 sq. ft. minimum) converted, up to $1,500 per property. Rainwater Harvesting Rebate 6 Rebates of $0.50 per gallon capacity for non-pressurized systems or $1.00 per gallon capacity for pressurized systems up to a maximum rebate of $5,000 are available for rainwater harvesting systems. Irrigation Upgrade Rebate 6 Customers may receive up to $1,000 in rebates for making improvements to their existing irrigation systems to increase water efficiency. New irrigation systems and expansions to existing systems are not eligible. rWise NG REBATES

Conservation Rebates,Tools, Tips, and more

Government

BY BEN THOMPSON

The city of Austin could face budget deficits of tens of millions of dollars over the next five years, while residents are likely to face rising taxes and other charges. New information shared ahead of the summer budgeting process projects annual budget gaps growing to $80 million by fiscal year 2029-30. A deficit of $6 million in the current fiscal year is already anticipated thanks to lower-than-expected sales and alcoholic beverage tax collections. The forecast was based on a slowdown in local job creation and new development, the end of federal stimulus money, and other factors like inflation and signs of an economic slowdown, according to city finance staff. Another near-term impact is a likely dip in total property values across Austin, based on preliminary reporting from the Travis Central Appraisal District. A record number of appraisals are also being protested and property value growth is slowing, city staff said, leading to tens of billions of dollars less in taxable value for FY 2025-26 compared to this year. City Council members responded to the “sobering” and “concerning” financial report during an April 8 review by noting the challenges they’ll face in maintaining city services. On top of local trends, they also pointed out Austin’s mounting losses of federal funding and the need to support local initiatives amid those cuts. Austin expecting fund gaps; costs could rise

The approach

City costs

The typical Austin homeowner is projected to pay roughly 25% more in city property taxes, fees and utility charges by 2030.

With sales tax revenue already lower than expected, and a potential drop-off ahead if consumer spending falls off, Budget Office Director Kerri Lang said “tough decisions” could lie ahead. City Manager T.C. Broadnax said financial staff are continuing to refine their projections and work to reallocate funding in line with City Council and community goals. “Given the uncertainty in the global and national economy and the effect of property tax caps, we knew we’d be facing headwinds this year. We’ve prepared for them and will adjust as necessary,” he said in a statement. His budget will be presented in July before review and council consideration in August.

Property taxes

Utility charges, city fees

$8K

$6K

$4K

$2K

NOTE: ESTIMATES BASED ON ANNUAL MEDIAN HOME VALUES AND TYPICAL UTILITY USE.

General fund deficits Austin could face gaps of tens of millions of dollars in the city budget for public safety, parks, libraries and housing.

Looking ahead

State law blocks cities from raising more than 3.5% in additional property taxes year-over-year, aside from any newly-added value. However, tax rates generating revenue beyond that cap can pass with voter approval. Austin hasn’t yet needed a tax rate election, or TRE, but city officials and staff have been pointing to the likelihood of one on the horizon—and continuing every four years. City Council plans to pass a formal TRE policy in May before setting any potential election dates.

Revenue

Spending

2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30

$0 / $1.4B $1.5B $1.6B $1.7B $1.8B

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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State

BY BEN THOMPSON & CHLOE YOUNG

5 legislative updates from Central Texas lawmakers

State lawmakers have nished ling all bills three months into the 2025 legislative session. Hundreds of bills have been assigned to committees, where lawmakers are reviewing legislation and hearing public testimony. The Texas Senate has passed bills that are headed to the Texas House for consideration. These legislative proposals—many of which are authored by Central Texas lawmakers—could become law if passed by both chambers and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott. 1 Guaranteed income ban advancing Several Texas counties and cities, including Austin, have launched programs oering unrestricted payments to select residents. House Bill 530 from Rep. Ellen Troxclair, R-Lakeway—one of three bills led to ban such programs—was heard during a March 18 House committee session. Troxclair stressed her opposition to the “misguided” initiatives. She said her ban would discourage government dependency and prevent the redistribution of taxpayer dollars. Past guaranteed income recipients and policy advocates argued for the programs, saying nancial support can improve lower-income Texans’ quality of life and career prospects. Bill supporters said no-strings-attached funding can stop recipients from seeking work and shouldn’t be a local government priority.

3 Bills aim to promote healthy school meals

2 State cryptocurrency reserve passes Senate

House Bill 1290 by Rep. Caroline Harris Davila, R-Round Rock, would ban school districts from using seven food additives in free or reduced- price meals for students. On March 12, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 314, an identical bill to HB 1290 that would ban 14 food additives.

In early March, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 21 by Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, to create the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The reserve would allow the Texas Comptroller to acquire, sell and manage state investments in Bitcoin and cryptocurrency with a market capitalization of at least $500 billion. The reserve would operate as a special fund outside of the state treasury where lawmakers could allocate money through legislation. With the Legislature’s approval, the comptroller could transfer money from the reserve to the state treasury. “The bill allows Texas to diversify our investment approach, participate competitively in the digital nancial economy, and leverage the benets of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies,” Schwertner said at a Feb. 18 committee hearing.

4 Eorts to fund behavioral training for teachers underway Rep. James Talarico’s, D-Austin, House Bill 222 would allow school districts to use funding from the school safety allotment to train educators on behavioral management in the classroom. School safety allotment uses A district’s school safety allotment can currently go toward:

“I think the state of Texas should have the option of evaluating the best performing asset

Securing school facilities

Employing school police or security ocers Mental and behavioral health support

over the last 10 years.” SEN. CHARLES SCHWERTNER, RGEORGETOWN

Active shooter and emergency response training

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATURECOMMUNITY IMPACT

“Having any person without air conditioning in Texas is wild. ... That this is not just housing, but government housing, that makes it 10 times worse.” REP. DIEGO BERNAL, DSAN ANTONIO

5 New AC standards oated for aordable housing

Aairs’ reviews of funding applications for income- restricted housing; those whose projects aren’t equipped with air conditioning would score lower. Bernal said the update is needed as Texas’ most vulnerable can live in public housing with “inhumane” conditions in high temperatures, and as thousands of government-subsidized housing units statewide currently aren’t cooled.

Rep. Diego Bernal’s, D-San Antonio, House Bill 211 would encourage air conditioning in state-supported aordable housing. Bernal’s bill would make cooling a key consideration in the Texas Department of Housing and Community

SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Education

BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ

AISD considering school consolidations Austin ISD officials are considering consoli- dating schools as a potential option to combat ongoing budget challenges, Plans for the consolidations are still being discussed. Voting for consolidation will happen December 2025. What you need to know Elementary schools with less than 500 students and middle schools with less than 750 students could be considered in the plan. That includes an

Some students to change bus pick-up Some Austin ISD magnet and choice-pro- gram students will no longer have neighbor- hood bus pick-up as the district transitions its transportation routes, according to a news release. What you need to know The schools who will use a “hub model” for transportation include Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders, Kealing Magnet School, Lively Magnet School and Liberal Arts and Science Academy. Students will be picked up at their nearest AISD middle or high school, called their “hub,” instead of their neighborhood. The policy starts in the 2025-26 school year. Families can find their hub at the AISD Transportation Hub Spots Locator website.

estimated 49 schools in the district to be consid- ered, AISD officials said. However, district officials said all 49 schools being consolidated is only a theoretical estimate that produces the maximum amount of savings, not the “realistic” amount of campuses that could be consolidated if the board approves the action. AISD officials were unable to provide the names of schools that could be considered for consolida- tion as of press time. Consolidating schools could lead to better school utilization, district officials said. There is an average of 600 students in AISD school campuses, compared to higher numbers of students at other comparable districts in Texas, according to a Gibson Consulting Group audit.

School utilization by percentage of student seats filled Elementary High school Middle school

Filled seats

Open seats

District-wide

29%

71%

36%

64%

15%

85%

27%

73%

SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Welcome to Whisper Valley, the master-planned community of the future! Where sustainability meets healthy living to create a lifestyle like none other. Where residents enjoy life’s finest pleasures– over 600-acres of parks, trails and organic gardens, a resort pool, fitness center, dog park and playgrounds. And where friendships are nurtured through community events, activities and lifestyle programming built on shared values. Come explore our enriching lifestyle at Whisper Valley today. Just 20 minutes from downtown in East Austin.

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Good for you. Good for the earth.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

New initiative aims to eliminate traffic deaths March 11, Travis County commissioners approved a goal of achieving a 50% reduction in roadway fatalities by 2035 and 100% by 2050. Explained The Safe Streets for All initiative—which has been adopted by cities and transportation agencies across the nation—aims to eliminate traffic-related serious 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 Travis County with a focus on unincorporated areas, as well as partnering jurisdictions within the county. Developing this plan will open doors for future funding from the U.S. Department of Transporta- tion, Commissioner Ann Howard said. The federal grant program is providing $5 billion over a five- year period toward local road safety efforts. The

Project Connect needs contractor

TravCo crashes

Distracted driving

Under the influence

Speeding

3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000

Austin Transit Partnership issued a multibillion-dollar request for design and construction firms Feb. 5. ATP anticipates receiving inquiries from engineering firms worldwide. The contract is estimated to be $3 to $4 billion dollars. The agency’s procurement team will assess procedures, timing and draft con- tracts during the formal vetting progress to begin in June.

500

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

SOURCES: TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

program is expected to continue until 2026. The final draft of the Travis County safety action plan is expected to be submitted to commissioners by May for final approval. Some of the top concerns revolved around speeding, distracted and aggressive driving, the initiative’s project manager Dan Malson said.

“...We are trying to be as collaborative with the industry as possible.” BRAD CUMMINGS, ATP’S SENIOR VP OF PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

Get Ready .

Stay Ready .

Central Texas weather is unpredictable. Thunderstorms, flooding and extreme heat can all lead to power outages. Austin Energy works year-round to improve reliability and prepare for emergencies. You can get ready too. • Plan and prepare before an outage happens. Know what to do in case of an outage.

• Know how to stay safe and informed during an outage. • Learn about outages and how Austin Energy handles them. AustinEnergy.com/StayReady

6/30/2025.

SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Community

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ

Spring Cleaning Guide

books, textbooks and more Locations (book drop boxes) : 3106 E. 14 1/2 St., Austin; Bouldin Creek Cafe, 1900 S. First St., Austin SAFE Warehouse The SAFE Alliance is an Austin-based nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to survivors or child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence and sex trafficking in Central Texas. Donations accepted: home textiles like bedsheets and blankets, home and office furniture, new food and pantry items Location: 1515 Grove Blvd., Austin The Salvation Army The Salvation Army provides resources and services to those in need of relief and spiritual support. The organization’s programs include food pantries, youth programs, disaster relief, thrift stores and more. Those with donation items can schedule a home pick-up with their local store. Donations accepted : operating appliances, children’s clothing, furniture, household goods, toys, bicycles, books, sports equipment Locations: 4216 S. Congress Ave., Austin; 8801 Research Blvd., Austin; 601 W. Louis Henna Blvd., Austin

Before you go

2025

Outdoor tips and tricks

When it’s time to clean the outside of the house, Community Impact spoke with Steve Ambrose, Division Manager of Home Improvement at ABC Home & Commercial, about the areas to check as the weather warms up.

Irrigation system: to prepare for the hotter, sunnier months, a trial run of the sprinkler system may prevent leaks and program malfunctions.

As the weather warms up in Central Texas, many people take the seasonal change as a chance to clean their homes and belongings to freshen up for the springtime. This is a guide to cleaning both inside and outside the home, including various donation centers to take unneeded items. Austin Creative Reuse Center Nonprofit Austin Creative Reuse sells used creative materials donated from the community. The center also hosts workshops and community events. Donations accepted: art supplies, scrapbook and paper craft, fabric and notions, fiber arts, puzzles, small toys, games, vintage magazines and more Location: 2005 Wheless Lane, Austin Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStore ReStore, which first opened in Austin in 1992, offers home items ranging from flooring and doors to furniture and decor. ReStores are part of nonprofit Austin Habitat for Humanity, which works toward affordable housing in Hays, Caldwell and Travis counties. Donations accepted: home goods including furniture,

appliances, doors, windows, flooring, cabinets, lighting, decor, exercise equipment, baby items, clean clothing and accessories, lawn equipment and more Locations: 500 W. Ben White Blvd., Austin; 13804 N. Hwy. 183, Austin; 2521 S. I-35 frontage road, San Marcos Austin Pets Alive! Thrift Austin Pets Alive! Thrift are boutique-style stores offering used items from clothing, home decor and jewelry to support the animal rescue organization. Donations accepted: pet items, adult men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, shoes, books, artwork, musical instruments, working laptops and tablets, video games and more Locations: 5801 Burnet Road, Austin; 1409 W. Oltorf St., Austin; 5102 Clarkson Ave., Austin; 913 N. I-35 frontage road, Round Rock; 15803 Windermere Drive, Ste. 603, Pflugerville Austin Public Library Recycled Reads Bookstore Part of the Austin Public Library System, Recycled Reads sells books, art, games and more priced at $2 and under.

All proceeds benefit the Austin Public Library. Donations accepted: books, CDs, LPs, DVDs, art, complete board games and puzzles, VHS, audio cassettes Location : 5335 Burnet Road, Austin BookSpring BookSpring is a local nonprofit organization with a mission to build early literacy in children and families. Books in good condition can be dropped off during office hours. Donations accepted: picture books in English or Spanish, board books, elementary chapter books, recently published teen and adult fiction Location: 1807 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin Inside Books Project Inside Books Project is an Austin-based nonprofit that sends books and other reading materials to people incarcerated in Texas. Donations accepted: dictionaries & thesauruses (paperback), history books, graphic novels, comics, trade books and how-to manuals, Spanish and English learning

Holes : openings and holes in a house may also give indoor access to pests, Ambrose said.

Gutters : check for debris like twigs, dried leaves and sap, which can weigh down the gutters.

Thresholds : check the weather stripping on doors and windows for drafts.

Trees : a quick walk around can point out any trees touching the house roof that need trimming. As the wind blows, long branches may damage the roof shingles. They can also be an avenue for wildlife like squirrels, rats, possums and raccoons to get onto the roof. Condenser : the condenser is the box- shaped outdoor air conditioning unit most houses have. Ambrose said these can also collect debris, resulting in the indoor AC unit not cooling efficiently.

Hardscapes : hard surfaces like patios, walkways, sidewalks and decks can become slippery from mildew and pollen buildup during spring. Homeowners can clean these areas themselves or call a professional service.

This list is not comprehensive.

SOURCE: STEVE AMBROSE, DIVISION MANAGER OF HOME IMPROVEMENT FOR ABC HOME & COMMERCIAL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

BRODIE LANE 4970 W Hwy 290 (512) 366-8260

NORTH LAMAR 914 North Lamar (512) 214-6665

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

Development

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & BEN THOMPSON

Legislation could lift limits on future UT hospital site A new medical complex set to rise on the former Frank Erwin Center property could potentially get some support from the Texas Legislature. What’s happening The future site of The University of Texas Future medical complex property 35 Capitol View Corridors protect sight lines to the Capitol by blocking construction Current Restrictions

The development will contain 299,373 square feet of residential and commercial space.

RENDERING COURTESY GIANT NOISE

Texas Capitol Capitol View Corridors

system’s new hospital campus is currently con- strained by Capitol View Corridors that limit devel- opment within sight lines of the Capitol dome. A pair of bills are proposed this year to remove those restrictions, which ocials said could clear the way for a larger hospital complex. The new UT Austin and MD Anderson Cancer Center campus will be situated on 19-acres in Austin’s Innovation District. The UT Medical Center would include a 250-bed hospital and 156- bed cancer center, UT previously announced, with groundbreaking set for 2026. A closer look Several Capitol View Corridors cross the site.

Luxury condos break ground downtown Developer Pearlstone Partners broke ground on a new luxury condominium downtown in March. The details The Belvedere at 300 Pressler St., Austin, will feature 158 one- to three-bedroom residences starting at $800,000. Amenities include pools, tness studios, a restaurant, theater room, pet lounge and 3-acre park.

Senate Bill 2076 from Sen. Brandon Creighton, RConroe, and House Bill 3114 from Rep. Charlie Geren, RFort Worth, would eliminate the cor- ridors over the property. SB 2076 moved out of committee and the House passed HB 3114 in April.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

JUST FORE! YOU

A TOUR OF THE STATE, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT APRIL 2025

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

WEEKENDER: A Big Time in Big Spring CRITTER: Gray Fox MADE IN TEXAS: A Recipe for Stunning Ceramics OUT THERE: Meanwhile, in Texas FEATURE PREVIEW: The Texas Monthly Profile of Scottie Scheffler

Above: Hotel Settles, in Big Spring.

SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

CRITTER

Gray Fox

HOW CAN I IDENTIFY ONE? Look for a black stripe, typically run- ning down the length of the animal’s back. Gray foxes also have a “bright orange patch on the side of their face and neck,” says Amanda Veals Dutt, a postdoctoral scientist at Sul Ross State University. That distinguishes the species from the slightly larger, non-native red fox (which settlers near Waco introduced for hunting in the 1890s) and two smaller species: the swift fox, found in the Panhandle, and the kit fox, which roams West Texas. WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT IT? It can thrive in a range of habitats, in part because it’ll eat almost anything —mice, small birds, insects—and it seems to enjoy living close to humans. Attacks on us (or dogs or cats) are rare, but rabbits and guinea pigs might make a tasty snack. And if you keep chickens? “They’re basically ice-cream cones running around,” says John Tomeček, a carnivore ecologist at Texas A&M University. ANY URBAN FOX TALES? In October 2021, in front of at least one hundred onlookers at the San Antonio River Walk, firefighters rescued a baby gray fox stranded on a window ledge about 25 feet o¥ the ground. More re- cently, Bethany Snowden, a lieutenant with the city’s animal care services department, sent colleagues to scoop up a fox that had wandered into a court- house. “We enjoy saving urban wildlife,” she says, adding that both foxes were transferred to Wildlife Rescue and Re- habilitation, a local sanctuary. —Rose Cahalan

WEEKENDER

A “Big” Secret in West Texas With a grand hotel and a rich history that includes oil, rail, and Midnight Cowboy , this Permian Basin town holds some surprises. BY COURTNEY BOND

a diner-style room complete with red vinyl– topped chrome stools. At the south end of town, the four-hundred- acre Comanche Trail Park is home to Big Spring’s big spring. Well, what’s left of it. The railroad, the ranches, and all the other busi- nesses of civilization long ago drained the water table, but ocials utilize what they call artificial outflow, making for a nice waterfall that spills into a reservoir. Continue your educational journey during lunch at Local’s, a onetime school building down the street from the park. After lunch, fill up on the town’s more modern history at the Heritage Museum of Big Spring. For supper, pop in at J Jayz Bar and Grill (across from the Train Car) for colorful cock- tails and the kind of food—burgers, quesadillas —needed to soak them up. Or head back to home base and enjoy a whiskey sour and chicken-fried steak from Settles Grill. To read the full story, please subscribe to Texas Monthly .

FRIDAY: If you did nothing else but spend a night at Hotel Settles, your visit would be worthwhile. A dust-colored brick building rising fifteen stories, its glowing red rooftop sign visible for miles, the crown jewel of Big Spring exemplifies the word “landmark.” Catty-corner to the hotel, across Runnels Street, is what appears to be downtown’s most popular restaurant, Devour. Inside a narrow space, patrons pair giant margaritas with hearty American fare that includes burgers, pork chops, and bacon-wrapped quail with green onions and hot honey. After dinner, make tracks two blocks north and one street over to the Train Car Cigar Bar. SATURDAY: The sign outside still says Dell’s Café, but this spare restaurant with the odd name of Neutral Ways serves fat egg-filled tacos and classic American breakfast plates in

The entrance to Comanche Trail Park.

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