Georgetown Edition | September 2023

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

Georgetown Edition VOLUME 17, ISSUE 1 SEPT. 14OCT. 17, 2023

Stillhouse Hollow Lake, one of Georgetown’s main water reservoirs, reached its lowest capacity in 33 years in August.

FALCON SKY PHOTOGRAPHYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Drought conditions strain Georgetown’s water resources, necessitating restrictions

our system and regionally—have left us with few options to ensure we maintain safe drinking water for all our customers,” Assistant City Manager Nick Woolery said in a July news release.

Hollow Lake—to dip to its lowest capacity in 33 years. The city’s other major reservoir, Lake Georgetown, is approaching the same levels it did during the region’s last major drought in 2011. “A combination of cascading challenges—within

BY KATY MCAFEE

Central Texans are surviving one of the hottest summers recorded paired with extreme drought conditions. These factors have led to one of Georgetown’s main sources of water—Stillhouse

CONTINUED ON 26

Also in this issue

Impacts: A Gift of Time launches respite program (Page 7)

Education: New superintendent aims to maintain culture (Page 13)

Events: 12 regional activities to usher in fall (Page 24)

Business: Pickleball boom brings more courts to county (Page 28)

IT ALL STARTS WITH

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

The Wesleyan

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GEORGETOWN EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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

Readers, your newspaper has a

this month.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Zara Flores Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson

Denise Seiler General Manager dseiler@ communityimpact.com

Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Roger Ibanez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Brendan Rodriguez Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Account Executive Dana Smyth Managing Editor Amy Denney Senior Art Production Manager Haley Grace

Claire Shoop Editor cshoop@ communityimpact.com

Travis Baker Publisher tbaker@ communityimpact.com

Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

16225 Impact Way Pflugerville, TX 78660 • 512-989-6808 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases geonews@communityimpact.com Advertising geoads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

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195

Impacts

SUN CITY BLVD.

2 Austin Retina Associates The Central Texas eye care clinic opened in Georgetown in the Sedro Crossing Medical Business Park. The business offers diagnostic imaging and advanced treatments for a range of retinal conditions, including diabetic eye disease; age-related macular degeneration; and retinal holes, tears and detachments. Austin Retina Associates has 11 physicians and 14 locations from Waco to San Marcos. • Opened Aug. 8 • 4847 Williams Drive, Bldg. E, Ste. 101, Georgetown • www.austinretina.com 3 Symmetry Physical Therapy Physical therapists Julie Mankinen and Brad Bevil opened an orthopedic physical therapy center with the goal of providing hands-on care and prescribed physical activity to help increase patients’ mobility, reduce their pain and build their strength. Located in a new mixed-medical office building at the intersection of Blue Ridge Drive and Westinghouse Road, this is the second location for the business with the first being in North Austin. • Opened Sept. 5 • 1502 Blue Ridge Drive, Ste. 304, Georgetown • www.symmetryptaustin.com 29 130 TOLL

DEL WEBB BLVD.

130 TOLL

195

LAKE GEORGETOWN

DEL WEBB BLVD.

SERENADA DR.

RONALD REAGAN BLVD.

130 TOLL

RIVERY BLVD.

NORTHWEST BLVD.

3405

LAKE GEORGETOWN

WOLF LAKES DR.

WOLF RANCH PKWY.

265

CANTERA WAY

Coming soon

RIVERY BLVD.

1460

4 Music Boss Owned by Jarka Pederson, the music school will offer piano and guitar lessons for elementary-age students up to adults. Group and one-on-one lessons will be available, and a special class will be offered for seniors. • Opening in October • 4871-2 Williams Drive, Ste. 205, Georgetown • www.musicbosstx.com 5 TrvFit Georgetown Owners Amanda and John Norcott are planning to open a new fitness business that aims to foster community, General Manager Ashley Dennis said. Offering personal training, semiprivate training and group fitness sessions, workouts at the gym promote burning calories while balancing strength, quality, mobility and longevity. The business has more than a dozen locations in Michigan, but this will be the first Texas studio. 110 29

WOLF LAKES DR.

WOLF RANCH PKWY.

BLUE RIDGE DR.

NTERA

265

130 TOLL

MAP NOT TO SCALE

the 60,000-square-foot facility offers a variety of outpatient specialties, surgeries and imaging services. The building also houses Georgetown Surgery Center. • Opened Aug. 21 • 1101 Wolf Lakes Drive, Georgetown • www.ascension.org 1460 BLUE RIDGE DR. 1460

Now open

1 Ascension Medical Group Georgetown Health Center Located in the Wolf Lakes Village development,

110

Dr. Craig P. Torres D.D.S., Endodontist Board Certified (COL US Army Dental Corps RET) • Non-surgical root canal therapy • Root canal retreatments • Root canal surgery Dr. Gloria T. Torres D.D.S., Prosthodontist (LTC US Army Dental Corps RET) 64 Years Combined Experience (Retired Army Dentists)

110

1431

Call for an appointment 512-868-5999 Advanced Technology CEREC (one day all ceramic crowns) Endodontic Microscopes Digital radiography/photography CBCT (3-D) scans Oral/nitrous sedation www.Torres-Dental-Specialties.com

1460

110

• Restorative Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Full mouth reconstruction

(severe wear/malocclusions) • Complex esthetic and functional cases • Dental implants • Dentures / partial dentures

1431

4402 Williams Drive, Suite 104 • Georgetown, TX • Hours M-F 8-5 • Most insurance accepted

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CLAIRE SHOOP

• Opening in early October • 205 Cantera Way, Georgetown • www.trvfitgeorgetown.com

fifth grade school celebrated the grand opening of its 5-acre campus Aug. 10. While the school has had the campus for two years, it previously housed only third through fifth grade students, Development Coordinator DeLaine Hewlett said. • 3309 Shell Road, Georgetown • www.gcagtx.org 8 The Garden at The Summit The restaurant came under the management of Gabe Dupuis and Eric Soriano in June, who together have been working to add Texas flavors to the previous Boston-Italian seafood menu. A grand launch of the new menu, which includes shareable items, such as elote fritters and whipped chevre, as well as steak dinners and pizza, will take place in September. • 1500 Rivery Blvd., Ste. 2175, Georgetown • www.thegardengtx.com 9 Georgetown Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Founded in 2008 by Drs. Kenny Havard and Travis Hildebrand, the dentist office celebrated its 15th anniversary Aug. 8. The business offers dental care to pediatric patients of all ages as well as orthodontic

Expansions

6 Jetstream RV Resort - Stone Oak Ranch Formerly named Stone Oak Ranch RV Resort, the 71-acre RV park was acquired by CityStreet Residential Partners on Aug. 3. Along with the acquisition, CSRP will rename the RV community and carry out an expansion project at the facility. Estimated to be completed in September 2024, the project will add 200 additional RV sites— bringing the total number to 424—as well as new amenities, such as a pavilion, a beer garden, another pool, a resort-style lazy river and an outdoor cabana.

10 A Gift of Time The nonprofit organization began a respite program at St. John’s Methodist Church on Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The program offers the opportunity for people living with mild to moderate dementia to come together; socialize; and provide their caregivers time to run errands, visit with friends or have alone time, Executive Director Becky Folta-May said. • Expanded services June 7

• Expanding August 2023-September 2024 • 25101 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Georgetown • www.stoneoakranchrv.com

In the news

7 Georgetown Christian Academy Previously known as McCasland Christian Academy, officials announced July 31 the school is changing its name to better reach new families in the community. Along with the name change, the kindergarten through

treatment for children and adults. • 4507 Williams Drive, Georgetown • www.gtownkids.com

• 311 E. University Ave., Georgetown • www.agiftoftimegeorgetown.org

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I absolutely love this office. From the awesome playroom waiting area to the staff etc. Everything is great!

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*actual patient reviews from Facebook and Google

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71 *At least one resident of household must be 55 or better, and additional restrictions apply. Some residents may be younger than 55 and no one under 19 in permanent residency. All information (including, but not limited to prices, views, availability, incentives, floorplans, siteplans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) deemed reliable as of publication date but not guaranteed and remains subject to change daily or delay without notice. Floor plans and elevations are an artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. As-Built Condition will control. Price(s) shown may not reflect lot premiums, upgrades and options. Lot status “Sold” is an inclusive term that describes the present status of any Contract-submitted, Pending-sale or Closed property. All homes subject to prior sale. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Not an offer in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Please see a Community Sales Manager and visit www.taylormorrison.com for details. © January 2023, Taylor Morrison of Texas, Inc. All rights reserved. 01/18/23 6695 taylormorrison.com | 512.523.4128 | From the $400s | Visit us at 4900 Fiore Trail, Round Rock, TX 78665

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY KAMERYN GRIESSER & ZACHARIA WASHINGTON

WilCo budget, tax rate support 45 new positions County commissioners voted unanimously to adopt a $560.11 million fiscal year 2023-24 budget and a higher tax rate at an Aug. 29 meeting. Overview The budget has three components: a $318.14 mil- lion general fund, a $72.34 million road and bridge fund, and a $169.63 million debt service fund. The budget funds 45 new positions, including six deputy sheriff officers and staff for a new emergency medical services station in Liberty Hill. Also of note On Aug. 29, the Williamson County Deputy’s Association held a press conference to address ongoing disagreements with the Commissioners Court over staffing shortages. The association’s President Charles Duvall said the county does not have enough officers to serve

Georgetown voters to weigh $130M bond Georgetown City Council called a $130 million bond election at an Aug. 15 special-called meeting. The bond package includes four propositions, all centered around new construction, expansions and renovations of facilities. The details The bond package is made up of the following propositions: • Proposition A: $56 million to construct a new customer service center • Proposition B: $49 million to renovate the Georgetown Recreation Center • Proposition C: $15 million to fund an animal shelter expansion • Proposition D: $10 million to build a larger YMCA recreation facility

Rising tax rate Williamson County commissioners approved a tax rate of $0.377445 per $100 valuation.

7.74% year-over-year increase

$130 the average increase a homeowner will see in their annual tax bill

SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

its growing population and continued residential development, citing data from the FBI that shows the county would need an additional 445 deputy officers to meet the national average of 2.8 depu- ties per 1,000 residents. In response, County Judge Bill Gravell said bud- get provisions for law enforcement have increased by more than 26% over the past three years. “If we funded what the sheriff’s deputies associ- ation is asking for, we would have to set a tax rate that would be so offensive that it would anger our citizens,” Gravell said.

Georgetown acquires 35 acres of land for future park The city of Georgetown announced Aug. 9 it purchased 35 acres of land in the southeastern portion of the city to be used for a future park. What you need to know Located near the intersection of SE Inner Loop and Southwestern Boulevard, the land was purchased for $6 million. the city’s 2008 voter-approved bond, parkland dedication fees and a donation from the Friends of Georgetown Parks.

Due to a seven-year leaseback agreement with the sellers, the development of the park is several years out, which gives the city time to create a plan for funding and developing a park master plan, Georgetown officials said. The city will have the option to purchase an additional 65 acres of parkland at the site.

The money used to purchase the land was pro- vided through multiple funding sources, including

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY HANNAH NORTON

Texas lawmakers passed a sweeping plan to cut property taxes on the average home by over $1,200 per year. The July 13 passage of Senate Bills 2 and 3 closed out the second special legislative session of the year and brought an end to seven months of negotiations. $18B tax relief package passed

THE EQUATION

The $18 billion plan includes two bills and a constitutional amendment. For the tax cuts to show up on the 2023 tax bill, Texans must approve the constitutional amendment during the Nov. 7 general election. The constitutional amendment will appear on all ballots as Proposition 4. Gov. Greg Abbott signed the legislation July 22. SB 2 will become law if the constitutional amendment is approved, while SB 3 goes into effect Jan. 1. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said the bills would save the average homeowner $1,250-$1,450 on their 2023 tax bill. The average home in Texas is valued at $331,000.

A home’s value—the appraised value minus any exemptions—varies by taxing entity.

Taxable value

Including school district, city, county, utility district, etc.

Local tax rate*

The money owed to taxing agencies.

Tax bill

*If the rate is expressed per $100,000 of valuation, divide the tax bill by 100

SOURCES: TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Homestead exemption

Nonhomestead appraisal cap

The tax relief package also limits how much certain properties can increase in value annually. • The value of property worth 5 million or less cannot increase by more than 20% year-over-year • The cap applies to all nonhomestead property , including second homes and commercial property • Approximately 13 million properties will qualify The cap goes into effect in 2024 and runs through 2026, at which point lawmakers can choose to extend, modify or stop the program.

Texas homeowners can apply for a $40,000 exemption from school property taxes on their primary home. Seniors and people with disabilities are eligible for an additional $10,000 exemption. Under SB 2, homeowners can receive a $100,000 exemption , with $110,000 for seniors and people with disabilities. Additionally, people whose homes are worth $100,000 or less will not pay any property taxes to their local school districts. This will largely impact homeowners in rural areas. Since school districts receive most of their revenue from property taxes, the state is expected to spend $5.3 billion to reimburse schools for the increased exemptions.

Current

Tax exemption (Value that cannot be taxed)

Average home value in Texas

Taxable value

$331,000 $40,000 $291,000

New

Tax exemption (Value that cannot be taxed)

Average home value in Texas

Taxable value

$331,000 $100,000 $231,000

School district tax rate compression

Business franchise tax exemption

rates fall. However, overall school funding will not change. Democrats from both chambers of the Leg- islature unsuccessfully proposed amendments July 13 to send more money to schools and give teachers a one-time bonus. “Without question, the members in the Sen- ate and House want to give the teachers their pay raise,” Patrick said. “We will have time in the fall, I believe, to give them a permanent raise, and not just a one-time raise.” Lawmakers are expected to return to the Capitol for a third special session in Septem- ber or October. They will likely discuss school funding, teacher pay and how to provide stu- dents with the best educational opportunities.

Lawmakers set aside $12.7 billion to “com- press,” or reduce, school district maintenance and operations taxes, which make up the majority of a homeowner’s tax bill, by 10.7 cents for the 2023-24 school year. This is in addition to 10.98 cents of com- pression included in the state budget. • Savings will vary by school districts, but taxes are expected to decrease by 23.8% on average • For example, on a $300,000 home , trimming the school district tax rate by 10.7 cents would cut the average tax bill by $321 per year Schools will receive money from the state to ensure they do not lose revenue as local tax

Texas’ franchise tax is calculated based on businesses’ individual circumstances. • Businesses that make less than $2.47 million annually will no longer have to pay the tax or submit a “no tax due” form • Roughly 67,000 small and midsize businesses will be exempt from the tax • Collectively, qualifying businesses are expected to save around $300,000 per year

GEORGETOWN EDITION

El lugar para

ozar

Bienvenido a la herencia hispana de Georgetown!

Este mes reconocemos a la comunidad hispana de Georgetown quienes contribuyen con su cultura y logros, a la ciudad que nosotros amamos. This month we recognize Georgetown’s Hispanic community who contribute their culture and achievements to the city we love. Para más información visite nuestra página web library.georgetown.org. For more information, visit library.georgetown.org.

#LoveWhereYouLive |

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE Mobility Authority

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

The Mobility Authority is not the only toll operator

If Mobility Authority bills are not paid by the due date, late fees apply. Late fees are a fixed amount and not a percentage of the toll. The fee schedule is outlined on every bill to alert customers to the consequences of paying late.

Late payment fees do apply

The Mobility Authority is not TxTag

We accept a variety of electronic tags

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

XX.XX BILL

There are payment options everywhere

Keep your electronic tag account in good standing

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

XX.XX +LATE FEE

Learn what to do when you sell your car

Using the Pay By Mail program costs you more

WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP

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

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

Devin Padavil, who most recently worked as the superintendent for nearby Taylor ISD, has taken his seat at the dais of Georgetown ISD board meetings since he was hired Aug. 7.

PHOTOS BY BROOKE SJOBERGCOMMUNITY IMPACT

New Superintendent Devin Padavil aims to maintain GISD’s culture Georgetown ISD’s new Superintendent Devin Padavil spoke with Community Impact about his plans for the district. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. What made you want to become an educator? No matter your career, we’re trying to make the lives of other people better and make our communities better. I just think there is ... no greater sweet spot than serving in education. You get to help shape the personal beliefs, the personal

condence of students in dreaming of what they can become after they graduate, and so that’s a huge responsibility, but a huge honor as well. What should parents know about you? I have high expectations for myself and for the experiences that our students will have here in Georgetown ISD. They should know that I am fully dedicated to honoring what makes ... Georgetown ISD a really special community. But most impor- tantly, I want parents to know that every time I see their kids, I am going to pretend that I am their uncle. I am here to help take care of them while they’re attending one of our school buildings. What stands out to you about Georgetown ISD? It’s the culture. The people in Georgetown really support and take care of each other. That goes everywhere from the sta to the students and

families. Regardless of the work we take on, we have to retain that part of the culture. When you were a student, what was your favorite subject and why? Every year ... my favorite subject changed, and it depended on the teacher. When I had a teacher that was just really passionate about that subject I would be like, ‘I didn’t go into this year thinking I was going to love social studies, but I love social studies.’ I would tell [teachers], you don’t have to be perfect. There are good days and there are bad days, but if you care about your students and you care about the learning experience that your kids are having, you are doing an exceptional job.

Read an extended version of this interview with Devin Padavil at communityimpact.com .

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Education

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

GISD implementing safety, security updates Reinforced window film, taller fences and other safety improvements are headed to Georgetown ISD this fall. In a nutshell GISD’s Safety and Security Committee provided an update Aug. 10 detailing some upcoming and ongoing actions to comply with new requirements from the state of Texas. What’s happening? The district is in the process of implementing several improvements to enhance safety and security on its campuses to comply with new laws passed, including: • Silent panic buttons: These will be installed in classrooms across the district this fall. • Taller fences and window film: The district will apply for a state grant to fund the purchase of

Committee to assess future growth needs Georgetown ISD trustees authorized Superintendent Devin Padavil to create a citizens advisory committee Aug. 21. This is an initial step in evaluating existing facilities and resources in anticipation of a potential May 2024 bond, district officials said. Explaining the role The committee will be made up of com- munity members selected to serve through an application process. How we got here Voters approved two bond propositions totaling $349.9 million in 2021, and some of those projects are in progress. However, recent growth has led the district to consider whether additional investments in facilities and infrastructure might be necessary.

Statewide safety laws

House Bill 3 requires armed security guards on all charter and public school campuses Georgetown ISD's response approved a good cause exemption Senate Bill 838 requires silent panic alert devices in all public classrooms by the 2025-26 year

Georgetown ISD's response adding panic buttons this fall

SOURCES: GEORGETOWN ISD, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

window reinforcement film for school sentry vestibule windows and taller fences as needed. • Audit review: District officials will review the most recent safety audit and create an action plan to address any needs identified. • School resource officers: Trustees approved a good cause exemption to the SRO requirement outlined in House Bill 3 Aug. 21, indicating the district will choose alternate means to satisfy the requirement.

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GEORGETOWN EDITION

APPOINTMENTS TO APPRAISAL REVIEW BOARD FOR THE WILLIAMSON CENTRAL APPRAISAL DISTRICT Applications are being accepted for Williamson County residents interested in serving on the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The ARB hears property owner appeals and determines protests for ad valorem tax purposes. ARB members are not employees of the WCAD. To be eligible for appointment, an applicant must have been a Williamson county resident for two (2) years, along with other eligibility restrictions provided in Texas Property Tax Code Section 6.412. For full appointment details and applications, please visit the ARB page at WWW.WCAD.ORG/ABOUT-THE-ARB

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Transportation

COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE & ERIC WEILBACHER

Upcoming projects

Austin-area drivers will notice billions of dollars worth of improvements along I-35 over the next decade. While many projects are still in the planning stages, drivers are already seeing the traffic impact to their commute as TxDOT adds lanes, reconstructs bridges and makes mobility improvements to over 100 miles of road from Georgetown to San Antonio.

1 I-35 Capital Express Central project Project: This Central Austin project received environmental clearance Aug. 21 and is expected to break ground in mid-2024. Update: The project will add two high-occupancy vehicle lanes in each direction on the inner sections of the highway and widen the corridor from a range of 11-18 lanes in either direction to 17-22 lanes when accounting for frontage, bypass and auxiliary roads, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Timeline: mid-2024-32 Cost: $4.5 billion Funding source: TxDOT

Georgetown

183

Round Rock

45 TOLL

281

130 TOLL

290

Johnson City

Austin

130 TOLL

Ongoing projects

290

2 Williams Drive diverging diamond Project: Crews are adding a diverging diamond intersection, or DDI, on the Williams Drive bridge over I-35 in Georgetown. Update: The south portion of the Williams Drive bridge is closed and will reopen when construction is complete by the end of 2023. Timeline: October 2020-end of 2023 Cost: $61.7 million Funding source: TxDOT 3 I-35 southbound project Project: The project will add an auxiliary lane on the southbound I-35 main lanes between Hwy. 79 and Hesters Crossing in Round Rock. Update: TxDOT is in the final stages of the project and is installing new lighting. Timeline: March 2022-fall 2023 Cost: $8.4 million Funding source: TxDOT 4 I-35 Capital Express North project Project: This will add one high-occupancy vehicle lane in each direction between SH 45 N and Hwy. 290 East, reconstruct several bridges, add a DDI at Wells Branch Parkway, and add pedestrian and bicycle paths. Update: Crews are in the early stages and working on paving frontage roads, utilities and drainage. Timeline: March 2023-26 Cost: $606 million Funding source: TxDOT 5 I-35 Capital Express South project Project: This involves the reconstruction of bridges, relocation of ramps and the addition of two HOV- managed lanes in each direction between Hwy. 71/Ben White Boulevard and SH 45 SE. Update: Crews are working on building elevated HOV- managed lanes in the median south of Ben White. A long-term traffic shift is in effect south of Ben White near Stassney Lane. Timeline: November 2022-28 Cost: $548 million

183

Buda

281

San Marcos

130

New Braunfels

123

377

1604

Seguin

San Antonio

410

123

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

Funding source: TxDOT

retaining wall design and the contractor. Timeline: June 2022-March 2024 Cost: $6 million Funding source: Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization 8 I-35 Northeast Expansion Central Project Project: The project will add 9.5 miles of elevated lanes with three lanes in each direction. Crews closed the left lane of the southbound frontage road from Arcadia Drive to the bridge of Olympia Parkway to build elevated structures. Update: During the construction, the right lane will remain open. Timeline: May 2022-TBD Cost: $1.5 billion Funding source: TxDOT

6 I-35 at Hwy. 123 Project: TxDOT is widening the I-35 bridge over Hwy. 123. Update: TxDOT is also working on reversing and relocating several ramps along the main lanes and frontage roads between Hwy. 80 and RR 12. Timeline: August 2021-early 2025 Cost: $107 million Funding source: TxDOT 7 FM 725 turnaround at I-35 Project: TxDOT is in the process of making operational improvements at the intersection of FM 725 and I-35. Update: The original completion date was in September, but it was pushed back to March due to changes in the

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY DANICA LLOYD & CLAIRE SHOOP

City undertakes annual street resurfacing work The city of Georgetown will work from August until mid-November to resurface and repair several neighborhood streets throughout the city. This annual project—costing nearly $5 million in 2023—is funded by the city’s $0.0025 street maintenance sales tax. The specifics The city utilizes two different methods for its street resurfacing projects. The first, called hot-in-place recycling, is a process that heats, removes, grounds and remixes the existing pavement with new material to create a new asphalt surface, according to a city news release. Work using this method began Aug. 7 in the Pecan Branch North neighborhood. The other way the city treats streets is called a high-performance surface seal. This involves applying sealant to the surface of the road,

TxDOT offers safety tips for school zones With classes back in session, the Texas Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to be cautious in school zones and around school buses to help keep students safe. There are hundreds of traffic incidents each year due to driver inattention, speeding and failure to yield the right of way, officials said in a news release. Keep in mind • Be prepared for potential traffic pattern changes around schools. • Drop off and pick up students in the school’s designated area. • Obey school zone speed limit signs. • Watch for kids getting on and off buses. • Stop for flashing lights or stop signs on school buses in either direction.

Hot-in-place recycling • The North College-Holly-Morrow streets area • The Pecan Branch North subdivision • The River Ridge subdivision What’s being done Streets in several city neighborhoods and one area north of downtown will undergo resurfacing work as part of the city’s annual improvement project.

• The San Gabriel Heights subdivision • The Williams Addition subdivision High-performance surface seal • The LaConterra subdivision • The Pinnacle subdivision • The River Bend subdivision • The Sun City subdivision • The Thousand Oaks subdivision • The Westhaven subdivision SOURCE: CITY OF GEORGETOWN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

reducing the damage it incurs from UV radiation, water and traffic. Sealant work began Aug. 16 and will take place in six neighborhoods. Georgetown will notify affected residents through the city website, Nextdoor and flyers.

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GEORGETOWN EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

78626 Number of homes sold

July 2022

July 2023

Residential market data

Overall, homes across all three Georgetown ZIP codes cost an average of $38,600 less this July compared to July 2022. Additionally, data shows there were fewer homes sold this July compared to July last year. Only one Georgetown ZIP code saw an increase in home sales.

+13.6%

78628

120

-20%

78633

-6.8%

130 TOLL

Median home sales price

78626

78628

78633

2022

2023

78626

-4.9%

$405K

$426K

78628

-2.9%

$495K

$510K

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

78633

-15.7%

$430K

$510K

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Events

BY CLAIRE SHOOP

and electronics as part of the city’s “Love Where You Live” initiative. While there is no limit on electronics, individuals are limited to bringing three boxes or sacks of paper and four tires per car. • Sept. 23, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free. Participants are asked to bring a toy to donate to the Georgetown’s Police Department’s Blue Santa program.

comfortable with basic Taoist Tai Chi movements, and no experience is necessary to attend. Flat shoes and

professional development, include featured speakers such as Tim Tebow and other inspirational writers and business leaders. • 7-10 p.m. (Oct. 11), 9 a.m.-5:15 p.m. (Oct. 12) • $81.25-$800 (depending on package) • Red Rocks Church Austin, 7625 N. I-35, Austin • www.dcxcommunity.com Weir Volunteer Fire Department open house In honor of National Fire Prevention Week, the organization will host an open house for the community to learn re safety information. At the event, there will be CPR demonstrations, blood pressure checks, kid’s activities, photo opportunities on the re truck and refreshments. • Oct. 14, 1-4 p.m. • Free • 450 FM 1105, Georgetown • www.weirfd.org San Gabriel’s Writers League book sale Published authors will be selling signed copies of their books and talking with the community at the Georgetown Public Library. The event will include authors across a variety of genres with books for all ages.

September

comfortable clothing are recommended. • Weekly Sept. 25-Dec. 18, 9:30-11 a.m.

Interior design and decorating classes Taught by Barbra Hernandez, each of these four classes exploring dierent aspects of the trade will meet over two weekends throughout the fall. • Sept. 15 and 22 (home styling), Oct. 6 and 13 (textiles), Nov. 3-10 (home staging), Dec. 1 and 8 (art of display); 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • $135 per class • Georgetown Art Center, 816 S. Main St., Georgetown • www.georgetownartcentertx.org Light Up the Night Faith in Action Georgetown, a nonprot organization that provides transportation and other support services to seniors, is hosting its 22nd annual choral concert.

• Interested participants can inquire about costs by emailing texas@taoisttaichi.org; online registration available • 311 E. University Ave., Georgetown • www.taoisttaichi.org/locations/georgetown

• Georgetown Municipal Complex, 300-1 Industrial Ave., Georgetown • www.georgetown.org

October

Central Texas Philharmonic concert The Georgetown-based organization will kick o its 2023-24 concert season with a full orchestra performance of Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. During the concert, paintings by Hill Country artist Benini will be displayed. • Sept. 24, 4-6 p.m. • $10 (students), $40 (general admission), $45 (premium seating)

2nd annual Cause for Paws Fundraiser This event—beneting the nonprot organization Take Me Home-Advocates for Transport, which pulls dogs out of high-risk shelters—will include activities such as letting dogs create their own painting, arts and crafts, a wine and liquor pull, games, music, food trucks, and vendors. • Oct. 1, 2-5 p.m. • Free (admission), $8 (per dog entering the dog park area), tickets will be sold for games and activities • Dog House Drinkery & Dog Park, 3800 CR 175, Leander • www.doghousedrinkery.com DCX Conference | The Fight for Unity DCX Community, a business consulting organization, is hosting a two-day leadership conference. The panels, which center around self improvement and

Harley’s Angels Sanctuary 2nd annual Barktoberfest fundraiser The Florence-based dog and cat sanctuary is hosting a fundraiser that includes a silent auction, white elephant, a 50/50 rae, a baked goods and crafts sale, and other activities. The nonprot organization is accepting monetary and material donations as well as volunteers. • Sept. 23, 2-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Mulligan’s, 150 Dove Hollow Trail, Georgetown • www.harleysangelssanctuary.org

GTX Fil m fest ival The one-day event will include screenings of 17 lms from shorts to feature-length productions. Hosted by the Georgetown-based nonprot, the group aims to add lm to the city’s arts and culture oerings. Executive Director Beth Baker said the festival has grown and gained regional recognition. • Sept. 30, 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. • $30

• Sept. 21, 7 p.m. • Free (admission) • First Baptist Georgetown, 1333 W. University Ave., Georgetown • www.faithinactiongt.org

• Klett Performing Arts Center, 2211 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown • www.centraltexasphilharmonic.org

Community collection event The Georgetown Public Works Department will host a drop-o event where residents can dispose of paper that needs to be shredded, tires, mattresses

Introductory Tai Chi classes The Texas branch of the Taoist Tai Chi Society will begin oering a beginner’s class at St. John’s Methodist Church. The sessions will help participants feel

• Doug Smith Performance Center, 206 W. Second St., Georgetown • www.gtxilm.org

• Oct. 21, 1-4 p.m. • Free (admission)

• 402 W. Eighth St., Georgetown • https://library.georgetown.org

GEORGETOWN 1013 W University Ave (512) 868-6696

ROUND ROCK 201 University Oaks Blvd (512) 341-9066

CEDAR PARK 13530 Ronald Reagan Blvd (512) 986-7681

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