Southwest Austin - Dripping Springs Edition | January 2026

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Southwest Austin Dripping Springs Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 10 JAN. 30FEB. 26, 2026

Brought to you by our gold sponsors: 2026 Health & Wellness Edition

Austin faces diminished parks growth

By Ben Thompson

Armadillo Neighborhood Park

Austin’s dedication system has added new parks and recreational improvements citywide including Armadillo Neighborhood Park. (Elle Bent/Community Impact)

Also in the 2026 Health & Wellness Edition

Check out how a local college is lessening a dental shortage (Page 15)

Learn more about alternative therapies across Austin (Page 16)

Discover a running group providing community in healing from grief (Page 20)

Keep your heart happy with care close to home. You’re never far from advanced cardiovascular care. From minimally invasive procedures and expert care for irregular heart rhythms to open heart surgery, our cardiovascular team delivers personalized care in a treatment plan as unique as you. And with multiple locations, where you get care is up to you.

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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.

roll call.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Katlynn Fox Dacia Garcia 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

Elle Bent Editor

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

Lindsee Sanchez Account Executive

Correction: Volume 18, Issue 9 ATX Indoor Golf Club on page 6 is mapped incorrectly. The business will be located at 5446 W. Hwy. 290 Service Road, Unit 5, Austin, near Industrial Oaks Boulevard.

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Impacts Southwest Austin

183 4 Silver Streak Commodities The locally owned and operated business specializes in purchasing and selling gold, silver, coins, bullion and jewelry. The space also offers repairs, premium cleaning, polishing, resizing and watch battery replacement. • Opened Nov. 24 5 Taco Palenque The eatery’s menu features classics including tacos, burritos and quesadillas to soups, plates, panchos and parrilladas. The company operates over 45 locations across Texas, as stated on its website. • Opened Nov. 24 • 9225 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Austin • www.tacopalenque.com • 9300 Hwy. 290 W., Bldg. E, Austin • www.silverstreakcommodities.com

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TARA LN.

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MOPAC

RALPH ABLANEDO DR.

Coming soon

6 Living Spaces The furniture store recently requested a conditional use permit to build a location in Southwest Austin. According to documents from the Zoning and Platting Commission meeting, the storefront is expected to be 129,000 square feet. • Opening TBD • 11100 S. I-35 Service Road, Austin • www.livingspaces.com 7 Olive Garden In mid-November, a permit with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation was filed for the construction of a new Olive Garden location in Southwest Austin. A representative with the company confirmed that a new location is coming to the area but did not share an opening timeline for the restaurant. • Opening TBD • 5010 W. Hwy. 290 Service Road, Austin • www.olivegarden.com 8 Phoebe’s Diner A new location of Phoebe’s Diner is coming to Southwest Austin at the previous site of The Local, which recently closed. Phoebe’s has three other locations across the Austin area, with a menu featuring

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Buy, such as refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, washers and dryers. • Opened Nov. 5

Now open

1 DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana The Neapolitan pizza eatery has launched its third Austin-area location on Slaughter Lane. Customers can find a variety of pizzas, appetizers, salads, calzones and dessert pizza. • Opened Nov. 24 • 5701 W. Slaughter Lane, Unit E-110, Austin • www.desanopizza.com 2 IKEA Plan and Order Point IKEA has partnered with a handful of Best Buy locations across Texas to offer plan and order points. Here, customers can consult IKEA staff to help plan their space, as well as shop for appliances from Best

• 4970 W. Hwy. 290, Austin • www.ikea.com/us/en/stores/ ikea-at-best-buy-south-austin

3 The Picklr The pickleball court is owned by Karen and David Hoisington and Jasen Mounteer, offering eight courts, locker and shower rooms and bathrooms, and a pro- shop with paddle technologies, demos, accessories and apparel provided by Pickleball Central. • Opening Jan. 24 • 7101 W. SH 71, Ste. D1, Austin • www.thepicklr.com

2026 BOND

Come to an open house to share your priorities for a bond package:

Austin continues to face significant infrastructure challenges, including aging facilities, growing service demands, and affordability pressures. The 2026 bond program is being developed to address Austin’s most pressing infrastructure needs with investments that maximize public dollars and deliver the greatest benefit to the community.

Learn more at AustinTexas.gov/Bond2026

@maudiestexmex

Maudie’s Tex-Mex

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BY DACIA GARCIA & SIENNA WIGHT

smoked meats, sandwiches, breakfast foods and sides, including goat cheese grits and crab cakes. • Opening spring 2026 • 9901 Brodie Lane, Ste. 120, Austin • www.phoebesdiner.com 9 Switchback Coffee & Beer Owned by Ethan Wagner and Grace Nicholas, the new business will operate as a coffee shop and bar offering specialty coffee, craft beer, wine, cider, seltzer and non-

Now open

Coming soon

alcoholic beverages. • Opening in March • 220 Ralph Ablanedo Drive, Ste. 110, Austin • www.switchbackcoffeebeer.com

PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

What’s next

13 Integral Pilates Founded by Leg Gibbons and Marli Kimball Johnston, Integral Pilates is now offering reformer and mat classes on Menchaca Road. • Opened Jan. 5

16 Kura Revolving Sushi Bar The sushi restaurant is opening an additional Austin-area location in Sunset Valley, as confirmed by a representative from the company. Diners can find sushi, noodles, side dishes and desserts. • Opening fall 2026 • 5601 Brodie Lane, Ste. 1400, Sunset Valley • www.kurasushi.com

10 Burlington Southwest Austin residents may soon gain another apparel store. Burlington has many locations across the country, selling coats, dresses, athleisure, shoes and more. • 9500 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Bldg. K, Austin • www.burlington.com

• 10030 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.integralpilatesatx.com

In the news

11 Pinthouse Brewing The fourth location of Pinthouse Brewing celebrated its five-year anniversary on Jan. 6. Pinthouse has several locations across the greater Austin area, serving not only specialty beer but also pizzas and shareable bites. • 2201 E. Ben White Blvd., Austin • www.pinthouse.com 12 Waterloo Ice House The company is celebrating 50 years of serving the Austin community and is kicking off its year of celebrations with a partnership with Austin Beerworks. The collaboration features a custom 50th anniversary golden ale which is available at all Waterloo Ice House locations. • 9600 S. I-35, Austin • www.waterlooicehouse.com

in February due to an “out of control trash situation” and safety concerns. • Closing Feb. 1 • 618 W. Dittmar Road, Austin • Instagram: atxfreefridge_dittmar 17 The Local The tavern-style restaurant recently closed after approximately two years of operation in Southwest Austin. Located in Shady Hollow Village, the establishment served classic American fare, craft

Closings

14 1626 Auto Inspections The Manchaca-based business announced its Dec. 20 closure in a social media post, after almost 20 years of service, according to the Better Business Bureau. 1626 Auto Inspections offered services including emissions testing and inspections. • Closed Dec. 20 • 827 FM 1626 A, Austin • www.facebook.com/1626autoinspections 15 ATX Free Fridge ATX Free Fridge announced via an Instagram post that its community fridge on Dittmar Road would be closing

cocktails and beer. • Closed in January • 9901 Brodie Lane, Ste. 120, Austin • Instagram: thelocalatx

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Impacts

Dripping Springs

BY ELLE BENT & SIENNA WIGHT

• Relocated Oct. 13 • 251 Old Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs • www.caprimicroblades.com

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BELL SPRINGS RD.

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2 Hear in Texas The New Braunfels-based audiology practice, owned by Sally and Carlos Miranda, will open at the Arbor Center. • Soft opening late February • 800 W. Hwy. 290, Bldg. C, Dripping Springs • www.hearintx.com 164

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Closings

5 Garbo’s The Austin-based restaurant will close its Dripping Springs location almost two years after opening in April 2024. Garbo’s will still be serving its signature lobster rolls and more at its two additional brick-and-mortar locations in North Austin and ever-moving food trucks. • Closed Jan. 25 • 136 Drifting Wind Run, Dripping Springs • www.garboslobsteratx.com 6 Juniper Tree Market After ve years, the market is closing in downtown Dripping Springs. Juniper Tree will continue to sell their jewelry, apparel and decor Friday through Sunday throughout January. • Closing Jan. 31 • 301 W. Mercer St., Ste. A, Dripping Springs • www.junipertreemarket.com

OLD FITZHUGH RD.

DRIFTING WIND RUN

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In the news

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3 The Barber Shop Mercer Street’s local pub is celebrating 15 years of business. • 207 Mercer St., Dripping Springs • www.barbershopbar.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Now open

Relocations

1 Rice and Oak Thai Texas Grill Kitchen The Thai restaurant from Siwaphan Sampaotong oers woks, curries, rice bowls and more. • Opened Jan. 2 • 1025 Cannon Drive, Ste. 105, Dripping Springs • www.riceandoaktx.com

4 Capri Microblades Licensed esthetician Capri Jentsch moved from Blushing Belle to a new spot o Old Fitzhugh Road to oer permanent makeup and paramedical tattooing.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ELLE BENT & DACIA GARCIA

presence of adoptable puppies. Proceeds from the event will benefit the no-kill shelter, PAWS Shelter of Central Texas. • Feb. 22, 5 p.m. • $32 (admission) • The Art Garage, 11190 Circle Drive, Ste. 202, Austin • www.theartgarageaustin.com The Crafty Adult: Basket Weaving Attendees will learn the art of basket weaving in this instructor-led, adults-only course taught by Melissa Knight. Individuals will weave a small basket with colorful dyed grass. Materials will be provided for the first 25 attendees. • Feb. 23, 6-7:45 p.m. • Free • Austin Public Library, Menchaca Road Branch, 5500 Menchaca Road, Austin • https://library.austintexas.gov ‘West of Weird’ Art Tour Over 40 Dripping Springs artists will open their studios to showcase their work. • Feb. 28-March 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free

February

18th Annual Chili Cold Blood Chili Cook-Off All proceeds from the event will go toward Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit with a mission to provide access to affordable health care for uninsured, working musicians. Community members can look forward to live performances from Chili Cold Blood, je’Texas, Georgia Parker and The Faux McCoys. • Feb. 7, noon-7 p.m. • $10 (donation accepted at the door), no fee for chili cook participants • Sagebrush, 5500 S. Congress, Austin • Facebook: 18th Annual Chili Cold Blood Chili Cook-Off Upcycle Sweaters with Needle Felting Participants will bring a garment to upcycle and learn techniques for covering small holes or stains in the beginner-friendly class. Individuals will learn how to add designs, animals, words and patterns to their garment. • Feb. 7, 6-9 p.m. • $35 • Figment Creative Labs, 7809 Brodie Lane, Austin • www.figmentcreativelabs.com/ladies-art-nights

Dripping Springs Wild Game Dinner The 36th annual dinner will feature a raffle and a live auction to benefit charity. • Feb. 21, 5 p.m. • $15 (meal and admission, child); $25+ (meal and admission, adult); $600+ (family table, entrance and meal for eight adults) • Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 Event Center Drive, Dripping Springs • www.dswgd.com

• Various art studios in Dripping Springs • www.artindripping.com/wowtour-2026

Puppy Love Paint Night Guests will craft puppy-themed ceramics with the

SOUTHWEST AUSTIN - DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Election

BY ELLE BENT

Voter Guide

2026

Dates to know

Where to vote

Feb. 17: First day of early voting Feb. 20: Last day to apply for a ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Feb. 27: Last day of early voting March 3: Election day and the last day for counties to receive completed mail-in ballots (or 5 p.m. March 4 if the carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. on election day)

Registered voters may cast ballots in either Texas’ Republican or Democratic primary, but not both. Third-party candidates will appear on the ballot in November. Travis and Hays County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.votetravis.gov or www.hayscountytx.gov for polling locations.

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

KEY: D Democrat R Republican *Incumbent

Lieutenant governor R Timothy Mabry R Perla Muñoz Hopkins R Dan Patrick* R Esala Wueschner

R Mike Wheeler D Gary Taylor D Regina Vanburg D Kristin Hook U.S. Representative District 27 R Michael Cloud* R Chris Hatley D “Stock” Castro-Mendoza D Wayne Raasch D Tanya Llyod Local elections Hays County Criminal District Attorney D Alfonso O. Salazar D Landon Bryan Campbell Hays County Commissioner, Precinct 4

Sample ballot

State elections U.S. Senate R John O. Adefope R Anna Bender R Virgil John Bierschwale

D Vikki Goodwin D Courtney Head

D Marcos Velez Attorney general R Joan Huffman R Mayes Middleton R Aaron Reitz R Chip Roy D Anthony “Tony” Box D Joe Jaworski D Nathan Johnson U.S. Representative District 37 R Ge’nell Gary R Janet Malzahn R Lauren B. Peña D Greg Casar D Esther Amalia De Jesus Fleharty Texas Senate District 21 D Judith Zaffirini D Cortney Jones U.S. Representative District 21

R Sara Canady R John Cornyn* R Wesley Hunt R Gulrez “Gus” Khan R Ken Paxton

D Jasmine Crockett D Ahmad R. Hassan D James Talarico Governor R Greg Abbott* R R.F. “Bob” Achgill R Charles Andrew Crouch R Evelyn Brooks R Pete “Doc” Chambers R Arturo Espinosa R Mark V. Goloby R Kenneth Hyde R Stephen Samuelson R Ronnie Tullos

R WM. Travis Crow R Rob McClelland D Angie Unger D Laurie Brown

Hays County Judge D Ruben Becerra* D Michelle Gutierrez Cohen D Joel W. Martin Travis County commissioner, Precinct 2 D Reese Ricci Armstrong D Rick Astray-Caneda III D Amanda Marzullo D Brigid Shea* Travis County commissioner, Precinct 4 D Gavino Fernandez Jr. D George Morales III

R Daniel Betts R Jason Cahill R Jacques Dubose R Zeke Enriquez R Weston Martinez R Paul Rojas R Kyle Sinclair R Mark Teixeira R Heather Tessmer R Trey Trainor R Peggy Wardlaw

R Nathaniel Welch D Patricia Abrego D Chris Bell

D Bobby Cole D Carlton Hart D Gina Hinojosa D Jose Navarro Balbuena

D Susanna Ledesma Woody D Ofelia Maldonado Zapata Justice of the peace, Precinct 2 D Mariel Kelley D Randall Slagle*

D Faizan Syed D Zach Vance D Angela “Tia Angie” Villescaz

SOURCES: HAYS COUNTY CLERK, TRAVIS COUNTY CLERK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Development

BY BEN THOMPSON & SIENNA WIGHT

$500,000 upgrades coming to Dripping Springs Ranch Park

New Fitzhugh retail center completed A 12,000-square-foot retail center and 2,000-square-foot cafe pad building are now complete and seeking tenants. The details The project is located at 15210 Fitzhugh Road, Austin, near the existing Fitzhugh Town Center. The center is meant to have a “main street retail aesthetic,” according to design rm Land Strategies Inc. The devel- opment has room for up to eight tenants.

Dripping Springs Ranch Park

EVENT CENTER DR.

Residents near Dripping Springs Ranch Park may experience noise exposure and minimal park closures in the coming months as the event center undergoes a roof rehabilitation project. The update Dripping Springs City Council awarded the nearly $457,000 contract, which includes a 10-year warranty to clean and re-coat the roof, to Elite Contracting Group at a Jan. 6 meeting. The event center roof rehabilitation will include: • Replacing berglass roof panels • Replacing missing screws and additional repairs • Applying a white, rubberized coating to prevent leaks and mitigate temperatures Dripping Springs Ranch Park manager Lily

A N Y O N D R .

Sellers said the berglass panels are worn out and no longer needed due to brighter, more ener- gy-ecient indoor lights. The current roof is also leaking into the facility, she said. The scal year 2026 budget allocated $500,000 for this project. What they’re saying While there will be notices Monday through Friday to inform park patrons of noise exposure and minor closures, the project is not expected to aect community access or events in the park.

Up to eight new businesses could open.

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New hotel in the works in the Oak Hill area

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AC HOTEL AUSTIN HILL COUNTRY

A ve-story hotel is being planned in the Oak Hill area as part of the Lantana mixed-use commu- nity developed by Stratus Properties Inc. What’s happening Landowner Stratus is seeking a zoning change at 6941½-7009 W. William Cannon Drive for the 150-room hotel project. The nearly 8-acre site is currently

Austin

Your Family . Our Team . Good Health . Same trusted care, serving our community since 1985 — With five locations throughout the greater Austin area, we make healthcare accessible to ensure every patient is treated like family. We are proud to serve the community with: • Online Scheduling • Saturday Clinic • Virtual Visits • Online Scheduling • Saturday Clinic • Virtual Visits Your Family . Our Team . Good Health . Same trusted care, serving our community since 1985 — With five locations throughout the greater Austin area, we make healthcare accessible to ensure every patient is treated like family. We are proud to serve the community with: • Preventive Health Care • Weight Loss Programs • Same Day Availability Schedule Your Next Appointment! pfpdocs.com | • Online Scheduling • Saturday Clinic • Virtual Visits NEW HOTEL PROJECT SITE

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SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Education

BY SIENNA WIGHT & CHLOE YOUNG

Principals named for schools affected by closures

Austin ISD weighs future of two schools Austin ISD is considering moving both Oak Springs and Blackshear elementaries into a modernized campus at the Oak Springs site. What happened On Nov. 20, the AISD board of trustees voted to close Oak Springs in the 2026-27 school year and reassign students to Black- shear Elementary. In mid-December, AISD informed parents that Superintendent Matias Segura would decide by late January whether to keep all students at Blackshear or eventually move the merged schools into a modernized Oak Springs campus. The $47.6 million project, funded by the district’s 2022 bond election, was slated to be completed by January of 2027, according to AISD information.

AISD will keep the same principals at seven campuses that will receive students whose schools are closing, due to earning three consecutive F ratings. The schools will be allocated additional staff and resources to support students.

In early December, Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura appointed principals for 17 campuses. Most of these campuses will receive new students from closing schools or implement turnaround plans following failed state accountability ratings.

Austin ISD principal appointments

Turnaround plan or school consolidation situation

2025 rating

Future principal

Current principal

Elementary school Pickle

2 unacceptable ratings

Kara Schultz

Rosa Waters

Wooten

2 unacceptable ratings

Leyla Olano

Nick Martinez

Pecan Springs

Campus restart after 3 unacceptable ratings

Paula Noe

Andrea Williams

F F

Wooldridge Sánchez

Campus restart after 3 unacceptable ratings Campus restart after 3 unacceptable ratings

Nick Martinez Travis Barrett

Juan Cardenas Iliana Barrera-Lubman

Becoming a non-zoned, school-wide dual language campus

Odom

Elaine Navarro

Angelo San Segundo

Zavala

N/A

Tamsyn Michaels

Samantha Hill (retiring)

SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Dripping Springs ISD shares plan for Rooster Springs

Some key improvements include:

Exterior and interior finish upgrades

Ceiling tile replacement

the school, including in the cafeteria, corridors and library. How it’s funded Funding for renovations at Rooster Springs Ele- mentary School was included in a 2025 voter-ap- proved bond. Proposition A allocated $76.9 million for improvements to the elementary school and Dripping Springs High School.

Renovations at Rooster Springs Elementary School are one step closer to breaking ground after the Dripping Springs ISD board of trustees approved the schematic design at a Dec. 15 meeting. The overview The schematic design outlines several renova- tions the district plans to make over the next two years. These changes will be made throughout

Safety and security upgrades

Floor replacement

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning

Lockdown buttons every 4,000 square feet Card reader installation for all exterior doors

replacement An additional second-floor bathroom

SOURCE: DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

An authentic, compassionate, & joyful Montessori community

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Proud to be the only school in Austin fully accredited by the American Montessori Society, serving Infants through Middle School

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Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

direction between Hwy. 71 and SH 45 Southeast. The project will also include a southbound I-35 bypass lane that will allow traffic to bypass Stassney Lane and William Cannon Drive. Update: Crews have completed 61 of 98 columns to support the planned elevated managed lanes. The northbound Boggy Creek frontage road bridge was reopened to two-lane traffic, a new Onion Creek bridge was completed including the installation of bat houses for the local bat population. • Timeline: 2022-2028 • Cost: $548 million • Funding sources: Texas Department of Transportation, Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization 2 Slaughter Lane Project: Work along Slaughter Lane includes widening the roadway from four to six lanes, adding shared-use paths, signal upgrades and landscaping enhancements. Spanning FM 1826 to Old Lockhart Road, the project is aimed at increasing safety. Update: The most recent phase of work from MoPac to Brodie Lane kicked off this past summer. Work includes new traffic signals and crosswalk upgrades at the intersection of Brodie Lane and Bowie High School. At Zuniga Drive, there will also be a new pedestrian crossing light. • Timeline: 2025-2027 • Cost: $23 million • Funding sources: 2016 Mobility Bond, CAMPO

Completed projects

S. LAMAR BLVD.

ESCARPMENT BLVD.

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3 Menchaca Road Project: In partnership with TxDOT, the city outlined plans to increase multimodal safety along Menchaca Road from William Cannon Drive to Ravenscroft Drive. Update: The project was completed in August, creating a one-lane protected bike lane along this route. • Timeline: spring 2025-fall 2025 • Cost: $213,000 • Funding sources: 2020 Mobility Bond, private development mitigation fees 4 South Austin street lighting improvements Project: The city of Austin completed several street lighting projects designed to enhance nighttime traffic safety. Update: All lighting projects are complete including at the intersections of A Escarpment Boulevard and William Cannon Drive and B Brodie Lane and

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MAP NOT TO SCALE N

William Cannon Drive • Timeline: 2018-2025 • Cost: $11 million • Funding source: 2018 Mobility Bond

Upcoming projects

1 I-35 Capital Express South Project: Plans for the stretch of highway include adding two high-occupancy-vehicle, or HOV, lanes in each

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Health & wellness

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Health & Wellness Edition 2026

Readers, welcome to your annual CI Health & Wellness Edition! January in my home has always been a month to reset, reect and realign. After the holidays and the rush of year-end commitments, January invites an intentional approach to wellness. In this guide, I hope you nd informative stories that help support your physical health, mental resilience, and emotional well-being. Wherever you are starting from, I hope this guide oers encouragement to be your best.

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What's inside

Learn how a bike race raises money for MS (Page 19)

Discover how school districts balance nutrition (Page 21)

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Austin Community College combats dental hygienist shortage

The approach

The $8 million expanded dental hygiene clinic was funded by ACC’s $770 million bond election in 2022. Austin-area dental leaders with the Capital Area Dental Society met with ACC board of trustees and advocated for the college to expand its dental hygiene program to help grow the dental hygienist workforce, said Dr. Shailee Gupta, local dentist and member of Capital Area Dental Society. The clinic has enabled students and faculty to provide low-cost dental and gum care to more community members, said Michelle Landrum, ACC Dental Hygiene department chair. ACC is planning to launch a dental hygiene program with a new health sciences building at its Hays Campus in Kyle by 2028, Landrum said.

Central Texas dentists have been feeling the eects of a nationwide shortage of dental hygienists, facing diculties lling vacant positions to serve a growing number of patients. A 2019 study by the Texas Department of State Health Services projected that the demand for dental hygienists would outpace supply from 2018 to 2030. In Central Texas, the shortage of dental hygienists was projected to increase by 116.4% from 2018 to 2030, according to the report. To help counteract this shortage, Austin Community College opened an expanded dental hygiene clinic at its Eastview Campus this fall, nearly doubling the program’s annual cohort of students from 18 to 34.

Texas vs. Central Texas The number of dental hygienists statewide peaked in 2024 after a drop in 2022. In Central Texas, the total remained lower in 2024 than before. Texas Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos

2.5K 0 5K 10K 12.5K 15K 17.5K 7.5K

16,010

14,310

13,230

13,030

11,510

11,180

1,630 1,320

1,250 1,420

1,050 1,090

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2023

SOURCE: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Health & wellness

BY DACIA GARCIA

Art, play therapy: 5 alternative therapy options in the metro While some individuals are interested in working on personal goals and mental health in a traditional talk therapy environment, there are additional options for those looking for a dier- ent way to work on intrapersonal goals. Commu- nity members can try a range of therapy options from equine-assisted therapy to art therapy and music therapy. Here are ve options for alterna- tive therapy in the Austin metro area.

Gsus Music Therapy Services & Center Description of therapy: The business oers music therapy for adults, elderly, couples, families and more. Therapy-based ensembles are conducted through the nonprot branch for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Accepts insurance: Services are reimbursable

Ensemble Therapy Description of therapy: The business oers relationship-based therapy in various forms, including play therapy. Accepts insurance: No; can provide superbills for clients who wish to seek out-of-network reimbursement from their insurance provider. • 4210 Spicewood Springs Road, Ste. 203, Austin;

Sound for Stress Description of therapy: The business features sound healing experiences that are meant to support an individual’s well-being through deep rest and nervous system regulation. The practice is used as a complementary therapy. Accepts insurance: No. • Classes vary in locations across Round Rock and Austin • www.soundforstress.com

Community Art Therapy Description of therapy: The therapy center oers sessions including art making, sensory engagement, movement and mind-body approaches which may include paint and clay. Accepts insurance: Yes; varies by clinician. • 11402 Joy St., Austin; 12741 Research Blvd., Ste. 402, Austin; 8700 Menchaca Road, Ste. 202, Austin • www.communityarttherapy.com

Open My World Therapeutic Riding Center

Description of therapy: The center oers equine- assisted learning and adaptive riding programs for individuals with physical, emotional and cognitive disabilities and mental health struggles. Accepts insurance: Personal insurance not accepted, some Medicaid insurance accepted • 5300 CR 279, Leander • https://openmyworld.org

This list is not comprehensive.

through some insurance companies. • Address shared when scheduling • https://gsusmusictherapy.com

5802 Berkman Drive, Austin • www.ensembletherapy.com

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

Cold Weather Tips

Austin Water Remains Vigilant and Prepared for Extreme Winter Weather 6 We inspect, maintain, and upgrade infrastructure year-round to deliver reliable service. 6 Our system is winterized with insulation, backup generators, and supplemental heat to operate during extended freezing temperatures. 6 Crews conduct preventive maintenance multiple times daily and are on standby 24/7 to respond quickly during extreme weather. How Customers Can Prepare Taking a few simple steps now can help protect you, your loved ones and your property: 6 Locate your water main shutoff valve and keep it clear. 6 Insulate exposed pipes and water heaters in unheated areas like attics and garages. 6 Follow manufacturer guidance for tanked and tankless water heaters. 6 Turn off and drain irrigation systems during winter. 6 Disconnect hoses and insulate outdoor faucets. Recommended Emergency Supplies 6 Water meter key to access your meter box if necessary

Helpful Resources Winter preparation tips, videos on locating shutoff valves and dripping faucets, and additional guidance are available at AustinWater.org and on Austin Water’s social media channels. Customers can track service impacts using Austin Water’s Leak and Outage Map , which shows affected areas, customer counts, and estimated repair times. Leaks, outages or service issues can be reported to our 24/7 Customer Service Team at 512-972-1000 . Sign up for the My ATX Water customer portal at myatxwater.org to track water use and get alerts when water use increases for possible leaks. Operational Readiness Austin Water conducts monthly emergency drills, equips crews for cold-weather operations, and operates around the clock during severe conditions. After- action reviews are completed after major incidents to continuously improve response and preparedness.

6 Insulation for indoor and outdoor pipes 6 Hose bib covers for outdoor faucets 6 Battery powered radio and flashlight 6 Have enough water for 1 gallon per person/pets per day for 7 days

Cold Weather Tips

AustinWater.org

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Health & wellness

BY JOEL VALLEY

42nd Texas MS 150 aims to raise $11.3M National MS Society ocials are hopeful the 42nd annual Texas MS 150 will generate about $11.3 million for multiple sclerosis initiatives, turning a weekend ride into the organization’s largest fundraising eort of the year. The details toward its prepandemic numbers, according to National MS Society ocials.

“The COVID-19 pandemic, along with some weather cancellations, really hit us as a charity pretty hard,” Garcia said. “We were sitting at $6 million in postpandemic fundraising, so we have been able to add about $1 million a year. We really are on an upward swing, and have a 10-year goal of hitting $20 million by 2035.” The National MS Society is seeking the following ahead of the Texas MS 150: • In-kind and monetary donations • Community partnerships • Sponsors • Approximately 2,000 volunteers across the entirety of the route The outlook Multiple sclerosis, a chronic disease in which the immune system attacks the protective covering

Emily Garcia, the assistant vice president of Endurance Events for the National MS Society, said the Texas MS 150—which will run April 25-26— is historically the top fundraising event for the National MS Society. “There are 49 other bike events that are happen- ing around the country, and ours is the largest by more than double,” she said. “The wonderful thing about our event is that we engage communities all across Texas.” Zooming in The Texas MS 150—which once generated about $20 million annually—is steadily climbing back

Participants in a past MS 150 ride across the Loop 150 bridge in Bastrop.

COURTESY NATIONAL MS SOCIETY

of nerves, can cause symptoms from fatigue and numbness to vision problems and mobility challenges, according to the National MS Society. Although early diagnosis is critical, it has histori- cally taken years for patients to receive a diagnosis. “We are now sitting in a space where it takes maybe a few months or up to a year to get diag- nosed,” Garcia said. “So the real goal is that people can receive a diagnosis in just a few days as we continue to do more research.”

3615 Willow Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78704 | WhitakerCollision.com CALL 512-610-5347 NEED A QUOTE?

SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Health & wellness

BY DACIA GARCIA

While some individuals are interested in coping with experiences by enrolling in traditional one- on-one therapy sessions, others may be drawn to healing alongside a community. Austin-based running club Good Grief has shaped an experience for community members to nd solace in staying active while working through their grief with people going through similar situations. The inspiration The club was founded by Samantha Hendel, who received news in 2022 of her mother’s lung cancer diagnosis. While trying to make sense of the news, a week later Hendel was notied her father had received a colon cancer diagnosis. To cope, Hendel started running in addition to going to therapy. She said while run clubs were popular in the city, she wasn’t nding an exact space like the one she was looking for. Hendel recognized the gap in running clubs for runners who use the activity for mental health or to cope with grief, and hosted her rst meetup in May 2024. About 20 people showed up. “I shared my mission and my goal for starting Good Grief,” Hendel said. “I remember I got in my car that day and cried because I was so moved by everyone showing up and supporting me and also hearing the other stories from people.” The local impact Today, the group averages 100 people every Monday morning at Noble Joe Coee Co. in South Austin. Individuals interested in joining a run can nd 8-minute to 11-minute pace groups with a two and a half-mile route and a four-mile route. While the space can be used as a form of coping, Hendel said she encourages members to nd other outlets of therapy as well. She said after her mother’s passing, she found comfort in the running club in a way she wasn’t able to in other facets of her life. “While my friends were lovely and supportive, it wasn’t the same as talking to someone who really gets it,” Hendel said. “Good Grief gave me a community of people that just understood me on a deeper level and helped me cope with grief in a dierent way.” Looking forward The meetup has expanded beyond state lines Austin’s Good Grief running club oers community in healing

The running club averages 100 attendees at its Austin group.

PHOTOS COURTESY GOOD GRIEF

The Austin-area group meets every Monday morning at 7 a.m. at Noble Joe Coee Co. in South Austin.

The group as founded by Austin local Samantha Hendel who hosted the rst meetup in May 2024.

and hosts a weekly group in Washington, D.C. While Hendel doesn’t have any current plans to expand to additional cities, she said she hopes to deepen the connection in the two cities the group takes place in. “I would love in 2026 to host larger community events outside of the Monday runs,” Hendel said. “Whether that’s certain charity races, fundraisers, dinners where people can kind of sit down and talk about grief, or panels.”

COLORADO RIVER

S . L A K E S H O R E B L V D .

Every Monday, 7 a.m. Noble Joe Coee Co., South Shore Eatery, 1620 E. Riverside Drive, Austin www.goodgriefrunning.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Health & wellness

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Each school year, Austin-area districts are tasked with meeting federal and state nutrition guidelines while serving meals that are appetizing to students. These regulations—ranging from limits on sodium, sugar and fat—are intended to help prevent disease in the United States, but can present challenges for districts who must attract students to generate funding, said Susan D’Amico, president of the Texas Association for School Nutrition. “We want Texas kids to be healthier. We want the next generation to be nourished. We want them to be ready to learn,” D’Amico said. “We don’t get money for a meal unless a child takes it ... so we have to make the food appealing.” Districts balance nutrition with student tastes

Weekly school lunch nutrition standards

Explained

Milk: 5 cups

Texas school districts are required to adhere to an expansive list of nutrition requirements for milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and meat that has grown over the years based on U.S. dietary guidelines, D’Amico said. Students are often served milk or yogurt that is lower in sugar, cereals that are whole grain, and meats that are not deep fried and lower in sodium compared to similar products served outside of school walls, D’Amico said. This spring, Texas lawmakers passed SB 314 to ban certain food additives, including red dyes, from free and reduced-price meals beginning in the 2026- 27 school year. D’Amico said she believes the law will encourage industry food partners to stop pro- ducing products with these dyes and ingredients. GISD said its able to ex and update menus in real time to incorporate any changes in guidelines. The district plans to work with its supplies to ensure meals meet SB 314.

Fruits: 2.5-5 cups

Grains: 8-12 ounces

Vegetables: 3.75-5 cups

Meat/meat alternates: 8-12 ounces

NOTE: SERVING SIZES VARY DEPENDING ON GRADE LEVEL. THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELEASED NEW DIETARY GUIDELINES IN JANUARY THAT COULD IMPACT FUTURE SCHOOL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS. SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURECOMMUNITY IMPACT

A spokesperson for Georgetown ISD said all of the district’s menus are reviewed for compliance with state and federal regulations, and are audited by registered dietitians.

Local impact

“School meals are the most consistent, nutritious meal oered to children.

.... There’s a real gap in what we are doing and what we have the potential to do in terms of feeding kids.” STACIE SANCHEZ HARE, DIRECTOR OF NO KID HUNGRY TEXAS

reduced-price lunches for students based on their family’s income level. During the recent legislative session, state lawmakers approved $19.8 million to cover the cost of reduced-price meals for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. For GISD, the additional state funding has increased student participation and reduced negative balances for school lunches, a spokesperson said.

GISD sta aim to incorporate the latest trends into menu items, oer nutrition education, and involve students, teachers and parents in the menu planning process, a district spokesperson said. Southwest Foodservice Excellence samples new dishes and allows GISD students to provide feedback at its Flavor Fest events. Additionally, the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program provides free or

SOUTHWEST AUSTIN DRIPPING SPRINGS EDITION

Austin faces diminished parks growth From the cover

How we got here

The context

The overview

Annual parkland payments State law hampered Austin’s ability to maintain past levels of parkland dedication.

Much of Austin lacks the parks access that’s a stated desire of residents and city planners. Less than 18.5 acres of parkland were available per 1,000 residents as of late 2025, 77% of the city’s per-resident goal. That gap equates to a need of roughly 5,700 acres, or almost 9 square miles. The parks department estimated about 70% of residents remain out of walking distance from public green spaces. However, city mapping shows many neighborhoods remain “parks decient” based on that metric, most notably in North Central and East Austin, and around the city’s fringes. Grantham said recent strides have still been made. More than 1,100 park acres have been acquired since 2020, with a focus on decient areas, resulting in almost 200,000 people city- wide seeing their parkland access increase. “We make our best eort, and we try to hit every council district,” he said. “We are actively trying to acquire land in areas that are not well- served by parks—areas where people currently, today, cannot walk to a park.”

Austin’s supply of parks and open spaces is often referenced as one of its most cherished amenities. But after years of population growth, it’s become more challenging to meet rising recreational needs. The city prioritizes all residents living within 10-minute walks from a park and oering at least 24 acres of parkland per 1,000 people. Portions of city bond packages have been used to expand parkland, and Austin’s also relied on a parkland dedication system requiring developers to either pay fees or contribute land. But future acquisition funding is uncertain, especially under a new state law that slashed dedication requirements. “Parks create community; parks are spaces for recreation, for physical health for mental health, for relief from urban life,” said Scott Grantham, Austin Parks & Recreation principal planner. “It’s going to be vital that we nd a way to continue to bring parks to the people.” Producing parkland Austin’s dedication system has added new parks and recreational improvements citywide.

Projected

Annual appropriations

FY 2022-23

$26.1M

FY 2023-24

$17.4M

FY 2024-25

$23.4M

FY 2025-26

$7.5M

FY 2026-27 $1.1M

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

City requirements on developers rose through the 2010s and early 2020s, when developers had to donate land or pay fees equivalent to 9.4 park acres per 1,000 residents. Limitations under House Bill 1526 went into eect in 2023. The bill targeted cities of 800,000 people or more, and lawmakers ref- erenced Austin in their statement of intent, citing rising dedication fees and housing costs as a threat to economic growth. This forced local ocials to approve new rules at a fraction of pre-2023 levels based on location—most signicantly downtown, where dedication values are more than 100 times smaller than under past policy. At the time, former council member Alison Alter said HB 1526 “gutted” the city’s system. “Its been huge. We were originally appropriating in the neighborhood of $20 million in fees through parkland dedication [annually], and now it has been reduced to about $2 million,” Grantham said.

Parks access Austin’s level of per-resident park service has slipped.

1 Armadillo Neighborhood Park 2 Slaughter Creek Greenbelt 3 Slaughter Lane Pocket Park

ARMADILLO RD.

City goal of parkland acres per 1K residents Actual parkland acres per 1K residents

W. WILLIAM CANNON DR.

0 15 20 25 30

L A U G H T E R L N

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

GOOD DENTAL HEALTH

(512) 892-0013 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Suite 292 Austin, TX 78704 thielpediatricdentistry.com

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