Bastrop - Cedar Creek Edition | July 2025

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Bastrop Cedar Creek Edition VOLUME 2, ISSUE 5 JULY 29AUG. 27, 2025

2025 Home Edition

New studios, big ambitions

Actor plans Bastrop studio amid Texas lm boom

1209

Wyldwood Studios

WAGON WAY

Located at 612 FM 1209 in Bastrop, Wyldwood Studios aims to provide an alternative to Hollywood with two Central Texas sound stages, amphitheaters and more.

RENDERING COURTESY WYLDWOOD STUDIOS

artists who are making that entertainment,” he said in a statement uploaded to the Wyldwood Studios website. “It’s not just building a better place for people to work. It also means that you have to give people better lives.” Wyldwood Studios, estimated to cost $100 million, will become the second development of its kind active in Bastrop County, as actor Alton Butler is building Bastrop 552, a 545-acre production site, on Lovers Lane.

BY JOEL VALLEY

Also in this issue Feature: Bastrop church marks nearly 200 years of heritage, outreach (Page 11)

Central Texas is rapidly emerging as a hub for lm production with major developments and strategic investments either already established or in the works. For Bastrop, its location is attracting new projects like Wyldwood Studios—a 75-acre development spurred by actor Zachary Levi, who aims to establish the latest alternative to Hollywood. “We must create a place that is valuing the excellence of entertainment and that is valuing the

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BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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3 Wildlife Rescue of Central Texas The wildlife rescue is building its first facility in Bastrop on 2 acres of land after receiving a final development permit from Bastrop County in late June. • Opening in late 2025

Tenants are expected to start opening in 2026. • Opening TBD • Sendero, Hwy. 71 W. & FM 969, Bastrop • www.senderobtx.com 111

Now open

1 Jeremiah’s Italian Ice Local couple Jack and Aly Plimpton are offering dozens of flavors for their housemade Italian ice, ice cream and the brand’s “jelati”—a combination of the two. • Opened July 15 • Burleson Crossing, 707 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop • www.jeremiahsice.com

• 304 Watterson Road, Bastrop • www.wildliferescuectx.org

What’s next

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6 Days Inn Construction on the 31,296-square-foot, 60-room hotel is expected to be completed by mid-2026, according to a Texas Department of Regulation filing. • Agnes Street • www.wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn 7 Firehouse Subs Officials of the sub sandwich shop plan to open a 1,500-square-foot location, per a TDLR filing. Firehouse Subs offers a variety of hot sandwiches and sides. • Burleson Crossing, 707 Hwy. 71 W., Ste. 118, Bastrop • www.firehousesubs.com

4 Mike’s Bikes Owner Jason Hernandez will operate Bastrop’s only bicycle repair and rental shop out of a renovated 1967 Airstream Land Yacht. Bike rentals will be offered for $15 per hour and $50 per day.

Coming soon

• Opening in late summer • 400 Farm St., Bastrop • www.mikesbikesbtx.com

2 Shipley Do-Nuts Franchisee Sam Chen will open a 1,660-square-foot doughnut shop. The location will be walk-in only and offer other menu items such as kolaches and coffee. • Opening in late August • 460 Hwy. 71, Ste. D, Bastrop • www.shipleydonuts.com

5 QKN Beauty Nail Salon A nail salon will fill 3,000 square feet of space at the upcoming Sendero development. Developers said the salon will be part of the 2.75-acre Wellness Collective.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JOEL VALLEY

• Closed in late June • The Boring Bodega, 865 FM 1209, Bastrop • www.valenta.school 11 FBC Sonshine Academy The Christian school closed; however, the child care programs will remain open. • Closed in May • 301 Hudgins St., Smithville • www.fbcsonshineacademy.org

Expansions

Coming soon

8 CommUnityCare OB/GYN Bastrop The nonprofit currently operates as an OB/GYN clinic, but will add pediatric services. The addition is expected to be completed by Aug. 31, per a TDLR filing. • Bastrop Wellness Center,

301 Hwy. 71, Ste. 111, Bastrop • www.communitycaretx.org

In the news

Worth the trip

9 Cherry Blossoms Day Spa The spa, which offers a range of services such as massages, facials, waxing and more, underwent a facelift in late May ahead of its 16-year anniversary July 15. • 1011 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.cherryblossomsspa.com

Rush A social club and nature reserve spanning more than 7 acres will offer racquet sports, food, drinks and events. • Opening in mid-2026 • 10037 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.rush.club Amity’s Located inside Hole in the Wall, the space operates as a coffee shop, bar and late-night karaoke spot. • Opened in May • Inside Hole in the Wall, 2513 San Antonio St., Austin • Instagram: amityaustin

12 Smokey Mo’s BBQ After four years of scouting, Smokey Mo’s BBQ President Craig Haley said he will open a spot near the new Chipotle and Jeremiah’s Italian Ice in Burleson Crossing. Haley said he plans to hire 25-40 local team members to run the $650,000 project. The restaurant will offer in-house-smoked meats such as brisket, pork ribs, chicken and sausage. • Opening in late 2025 • Burleson Crossing, 707 Hwy. 71 W., Ste. 124, Bastrop • www.smokeymosbbq.com

Closings

10 Valenta Academy Plans to open the charter school will not move forward after a Texas Education Agency veto.

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BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Events

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

August

“Peter and The Starcatcher” Directed by Jacob Layton, the Bastrop Opera House will bring the story of Peter Pan to life. • Aug. 1-10, times vary • $25 (admission) • Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St., Bastrop • www.bastropoperahouse.org Art After Dark The Lost Pines Art Center will host a reception with new exhibits, art talks and a silent auction. • Aug. 2, 6-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • Lost Pines Art Center, 1204 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.lostpinesartcenter.org Bastrop County Health Fair Health experts will offer workshops and screenings. Themes will include healthy living, exercise and more. • Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Free (admission) • Bastrop Convention and Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.bastropcountyhealthfair.com Last Splash The back-to-school bash will offer a pool party, drone show, music, dive-in movie, rock climbing and more. • Aug. 15-16, times vary • Admission varies

Main Street Market Benefiting the First Baptist Church of Bastrop food pantry, the indoor shopping event will feature vendors selling food and wares. • Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Aug. 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission, children ages 12 and younger), $5 (admission with non-perishable food donation), $6 (admission) • Bastrop Convention and Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.texasmarketguide.com Kitchen Battle Tournament Hosted by nonprofit Austin Deaf Pickleball, the inclusive indoor event features fixed and mixed doubles matches, highlighting deaf culture for Deaf Awareness Month. Blake’s Music Open Mic Night Local performers will take the stage to play music across a variety of genres, with complimentary snacks and drinks at the community event. In-store discounts will be offered throughout the month leading up to the shop’s one-year anniversary at its

new location on Aug. 28, following its move from downtown Bastrop. • Aug. 6, 6 p.m. (sign-up), 7 p.m. (event) • Free • Blake’s Music Shop, 93 TX-Loop 150, Bastrop • www.blakesmusicshop.com

• Aug. 30-31, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. • Free (spectators), $40 (registration) • Lost Pines Pickleball Club, 1099 Hwy. 71, Bastrop • www.pickleballtournaments.com

• Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort, 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd., Lost Pines • www.hyattregencylostpinestexas.com

September

7th Annual Abbey Lights Up COTA Gala This fundraiser soiree will have food and drinks, live and silent auctions, music, and guest speakers.

NOW OPEN! Jeremiah’s Italian Ice of Bstrop near chipotle & Lowe’s summer hours: 11am - 11pm Pantera: 'The Heaviest Tour of the Summer' Originally formed in 1981, the heavy metal band is on tour with opening acts including Swedish melodic metal band Amon Amarth. • Sept. 2, 5 p.m. (doors), 6 p.m. (event) • $30 and up (admission) • Germania Insurance Amphitheater, Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Del Valle • www.germaniaamp.com

• Aug. 16, 5-10 p.m. • $325 (admission) • Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Del Valle • www.aekellerfoundation.org

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Dining

BY KATLYNN FOX

Troy Streuer opened Pocket’s Grille in 1996.

230

205 Fawcett St., Smithville www.pocketsgrille.com

The Frito Bandito Burger ($10.50) comes with house-made Lone Star chili, corn chips, jalapeno and melted cheese.

PHOTOS BY KATLYNN FOXCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Pocket’s Grille serves American classics in Smithville Troy Streuer opened Pocket’s Grille in Smithville in September 1996, bringing American food and service to loyal locals. “It’s a small town,” Streuer said. “I’ve seen people grow up and I love seeing people’s kids bring their kids in.”

month before shutting the doors, the production of the 1998 lm “Hope Floats” ended up bringing the new business and revenue to Pocket’s that it needed to stay open. “People still come to Smithville because of “Hope Floats,” and it’s been like 27 years now,” Streuer said. “It’s just an ongoing economical advantage to lming all the things in Smithville.” Now, as part of the restaurant’s decor, Streuer displays posters and scripts from movies, shows and music videos lmed in Smithville.

In a nutshell After nearly 29 years, the menu still features some familiar favorites, including Reubens and fried pickles. Streuer said the real specialty is the 14 dierent burgers available, including the Jalapeño cream cheese and the Frito Bandito. Streuer started the restaurant with the support of his family when he was 21 years old. He said the key to his long-term success is “consistent hours, consistent food, consistent service.” Staying local Streuer said the restaurant almost closed in 1997 due to low prots. Deciding to give it one more

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Government

BY JOEL VALLEY

Bastrop adopts updated Future Land Use Map The city of Bastrop is positioned for new devel- opment after amending its Comprehensive Plan to feature an updated Future Land Use Map. The previous FLUM was adopted in 2016, but in the years since, the city of Bastrop has expe- rienced significant changes in both regulatory frameworks and physical development, according to a staff report. The overview City documents indicate the purpose of the FLUM is to: • Help direct growth to the appropriate places • Align growth with community vision • Balance economic development and livability standards • Maximize infrastructure investments Halff & Associates, the firm hired to develop the

Under the newly adopted FLUM, there are nine new designations: • Parks and Open Space • Residential Conservation and Estate • Neighborhood Residential • Residential Mixed Density • Neighborhood Commercial

Government news 3 stories we’re following online

• Mixed-Use Corridor Commercial • Corridor Commercial • Downtown Commercial • Industrial

1 County awarded grant for marginalized students

St. David’s Foundation awarded Bastrop County a $2 million grant to help students in marginalized communities earn certifications and credentials for high-demand, financially sustainable health care careers. 2 Plans for new district begin Bastrop hosted the first of several town hall meetings to gauge public interest in a Bastrop African American Cultural District July 9. 3 Area unemployment under 4% As of May, Bastrop County’s unemployment rate was 3.6%, according to Texas Workforce Commission data. The rate was 3.2% in April, 3.6% in March and 3.8% in February.

SOURCE: CITY OF BASTROP/COMMUNITY IMPACT

new FLUM, highlighted key modifications Bastrop City Council approved during the meeting. These alterations included changing the designation behind Buc-ee’s from Neighborhood Residential to Conservation Rural and Estate to protect the rural character and limit development on difficult terrain, changing areas within the Downtown Bastrop designation to Downtown Commercial to support a concentration of mixed- use development, and changing areas within the Downtown Bastrop designation to Neighborhood Commercial to better reflect existing land uses.

North End Prairie developers appeal partial denial North End Prairie, a 42-home, 4-acre develop- ment near downtown Bastrop, remains in limbo. The background Diving in deeper Smith said the disagreement stems from whether

North End Prairie affordable housing The project will offer 80% median-income housing.

• 1-person household: $68,500 • 4-person household: $97,800

Article 1.20 of the city code applies, which was amended earlier this year. Instead of using the August 2022 regulations from the initial permit, Smith said the newer rules were applied. Smith said she is awaiting a response from city officials, who had not responded to Community Impac t as of press time.

LINDEN ST.

Recently, the city denied a preliminary plat and partially denied a “grandfathering” or “vested rights” application for the development, said Jodie Smith, who owns the property with her husband Tom Leibowitz.

SOURCE: JODIE SMITH/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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History

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Spanning a full city block in Bastrop’s historic downtown, the First United Methodist Church of Bastrop preserves nearly two centuries of local history—its sanctuary building celebrating 100 years, while the congregation traces its origins back 190 years. From informal gatherings led by lay preachers during a time when Protestant worship was prohib- ited under Mexican rule to becoming an established presence in Bastrop with a dedicated sanctuary and community programs, the story of FUMC reects nearly two centuries of adaptation and continuity while honoring its foundation. The past FUMC’s roots date to 1835, when lay preacher James Gilliland led Bastrop’s rst Methodist service near its current site, according to church documents. Standing atop a barrel with a Bible and hymnal, he preached to 11 people seated on planks balanced on barrels. After years of meeting outdoors and in homes, the group built its rst permanent structure in 1851. Russell Bistline, chair of the commemoration committee, said the original building was damaged by a lightning strike in 1923. The current structure was completed two years later—when the 17-rank, 787-pipe organ was donated. The present FUMC recently welcomed the Rev. David Felps, who grew up in the church before leaving for col- lege. Felps said he was appointed to return as pastor in early July, though the bishop did so without knowing his connection to the congregation. “I am so excited about returning to this church that has been a faithful part of the community for over a century,” Felps said. “When I think about all the lives that have been touched in that time, I am in awe and honored to be returning.” The future Bistline said the congregation plans to continue supporting the community through preschool, child care, exercise classes, food distribution, clothing drives, educational programs and more. “Our vision is to share God’s love with the Bastrop community,” he said. “We want to be the church home for a new generation of parents and their children.” Bastrop church marks nearly 200 years of heritage, outreach

The Venetian stained glass windows, pews and the communion rail were moved from the original 1851 church two blocks away and incorporated into the 1925 building at the corner of Farm and Main streets.

COURTESY FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

First United Methodist Church milestones Tracing 190 years of worship and community in historic downtown Bastrop, plus a glimpse at what lies ahead

1835

First Methodist service led by James Gilliland near current site First permanent church building constructed

1851

Original building damaged by lightning 1923 Current sanctuary completed 1925

The brick sanctuary building was completed on donated land in 1925 for $40,000.

Bell moved to newly built bell tower 1928 July Felps returns as pastor 2025

Aug. 17-Sept. 30 Centennial exhibit displayed in FUMC Fellowship Hall Dec. Featured community spot in Bastrop Holiday Homes Tour July 7-Aug. 15 Centennial exhibit displayed at Bastrop Museum

FARMST.

1201 Main Street, Bastrop www.fumcbastrop.org

Russell Bistline said the pipe organ was donated in 1925 in memory of Sally McCord, organist from 1880 to 1922.

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

New studios, big ambitions From the cover

Wyldwood Studios

5 Pond swimming zone 6 Pond cabins with shared outdoor space 7 Orchard 8 The Farm Greenhouse and Edible Planting Gardens 9 Beachfront

12 Boutique Hotel/Health and Wellness Center/Restaurant Act 2

Zooming in

Act 1 1 Sound Stage 1 2 Sound Stage 2 3 Mill 4 Post Oak Savannah Meadows

13 Amphitheater 3 14 Treehouse club 15 Lodging 16 Boathouse

Dori Kelley, the business attraction, retention and expansion manager for the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation, or BEDC, said developments like Wyldwood Studios will have a signicant local economic impact. “They don’t just bring lm crews; they bring jobs, tourism and long-term investment,” she said. “A lot of small businesses will see the ripple eect.” Bastrop County created a Media Production Development Zone through the Texas Film Commission and the Texas Comptroller’s Oce—a designation that allows Wyldwood Studios to apply to the state for approval of a qualied Media Production Location. If the application is approved, the project could receive a sales tax exemption for certain purchases over a two-year period, according to ocials. Both Lyndsey Schroeder, Bastrop County public information ocer, and Kelley said Levi has not requested any additional tax abatements or incentives from the county or BEDC. Kelley said BEDC has not called for an economic impact report, as the development will be located within Bastrop’s 1-mile extraterritorial jurisdiction—an area outside of the city’s incorporated limits.

10 Amphitheater 1 11 Amphitheater 2

Act 1 , or Phase 1, will fill 45 acres and should begin construction in December. Act 2 , or Phase 2, will follow, filling the remaining 30 acres.

Wyldwood Studios Act 2

Wyldwood Studios Act 1

Creative studios

Amphitheater

Lodging

SOURCE: WYLDWOOD STUDIOSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Movies filmed in Bastrop County A handful of films from over the years have already relied on Bastrop County as a backdrop, including: “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” (1974)

What the experts say

location scouting, local vendors, lodging, permit assistance and production support. “You have Alton Butler’s 552 film studios coming [as well], and I think that’s going to provide a lot of jobs for Bastrop County,” she said.

Business owner and Bastrop resident Tammy Johnson Finn launched Film Bastrop County. com in late June—a website designed to further showcase Bastrop County as a destination for the film industry with online tools, such as those for

“Hope Floats” (1998) “The Alamo” (2004) “Bernie” (2011) “The Tree of Life” (2011)

SOURCE: FILM BASTROP COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JOEL VALLEY

Looking ahead

Zooming out

Senate Bill 22, which will take effect Sept. 1, will increase funding for the Texas Movie Indus- try Incentive Program, or TMIIP, from $200 mil- lion to $300 million each biennium, and places an emphasis on hiring local talent, as funding can only be spent in Texas. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said in an April statement that “for every dollar spent on incentives for the film industry, nearly five dollars is generated for the Texas economy.” Tommy Warren, owner of Spiderwood Studios in Elgin, has used the TMIIP since its inception and said he is pleased with the increased incen- tives under SB 22—legislation that represents a $1.5 billion investment over the next 10 years. “[Before SB 22], there were so many people that would apply to TMIIP, but then time would run out, and funds would run out,” Warren said. “This really makes a major difference, and I think it’s going to be a tremendous boost for the state and for Bastrop, of course.”

Wyldwood Studios, among the many production sites across the state eager to capitalize on TMIIP incentives, is scheduled to be ready for construction beginning in December, with plans to open its first two soundstages in 2027, said Trevor Hightower, a partner on the project. Development will follow a multiphased approach, with the first phase building on 45 of the available 75 acres. A second phase will feature a third amphitheater and more lodging options, as well as other recreational options along the Colorado River. Officials said surrounding traffic will be taken into consideration. The Texas Department of Transportation partnered with the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization to conduct a feasibility study with public comment opportunities for nearby FM 969 from SH 130 to Hwy. 71—an area that also houses several of Elon Musk’s ventures.

Wyldwood Studios would offer several amenities, including:

Studios

Soundstages

Podcast spaces

Coworking environments

An on-site spa and wellness center

Farm-to- table dining

Amphitheaters for concerts, festivals and gatherings

Residential spaces for cast and crew

SOURCE: WYLDWOOD STUDIOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

MORE SPLASH.

𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒 𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂 . 𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍 𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋𝐋 . 𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒 𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐂 .

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BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Transportation

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY

CARTS drives forward with demand

Projects we’re tracking online On June 9, CARTS NOW expanded to include on- demand rides covering neighborhoods throughout the city of Bastrop. See what else is planned. 1A Park‑and‑Ride expansion Timeline: engineering underway, 2027 launch What to expect: more parking, enhanced amenities, will integrate with the Mobility Hub 1B Mobility Hub Timeline: design underway, 2027 launch What to expect: Electric bike rentals and vehicle charging near the Park-and-Ride station 2 Micro-Mobility Hub Timeline : engineering underway; 2027 launch What to expect : electric bike rentals downtown near the post office

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Bastrop residents have more opportunities to go mobile, as the Capital Area Rural Transpor- tation System continues to expand its service options across the city to keep pace with the population growth. After expanding its reach in June to include the entire city limits, a third vehicle was added to the CARTS NOW fleet to provide micro-transit, or ride share, options. What else? The CARTS Country Bus services those outside of the city limits. “It serves the really rural hoots and hollers of the county,” said Dana Platt, community

engagement coordinator for CARTS. “It’ll get out into those dirt roads and pick those people up at their house and take them locally where they need to go.” Stay tuned A new CARTS transit app set to launch in August will help with booking all ride services with real- time tracking and CapMetro integration.

Unified transit app Timeline: Launches in August

What to expect: One place to access CARTS Now, call-a-ride and regional bus services with features like driver information, live vehicle tracking, fare purchase, and trip options, plus CapMetro integration

SOURCE: CARTS NOW/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Government

BY JOEL VALLEY

City OKs $2.4M wastewater plant x

Looking ahead

The project began July 8 with an expected completion date of July 7, 2026, and will be nanced with approximately $2.3 million in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act grant fund and $112,699 through the city’s Wastewater Capital Improvement Plan fund, according to a sta report. Plants No. 1 and No. 2 will be oine during construction, and ows will be redirected to Plant No. 3—which came online May 7, 2024.

Bastrop City Council approved a $2.4 million contract with Emerson Construction Company in June to rehabilitate wastewater treatment plants No. 1 and No. 2, part of ongoing eorts to upgrade aging infrastructure amid continued growth. Both facilities are severely impacted by grit and debris in the aeration basin— deposits that have led to a loss in treatment capacity, ocials said. Curtis Hancock, director of water and wastewater, called the rehabilitation “long overdue.” Though the bid has been awarded, city ocials are still negotiating with Emerson Construction over a late-completion penalty and city council voiced a desire for a higher-than-proposed rate of $100 a day. Hancock cautioned that a high rate could lead to Emerson Construction backing out.

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Wastewater Treatment Plants No. 1 and No. 2

Wastewater Treatment Plant No. 3

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate Home Edition

BY JOEL VALLEY

2025

This year’s Home Edition delivers a wealth of information to help you make the most of your home. We’re covering everything from safe installation of electric vehicle chargers to development in and around the area and residential market trends. Plus, discover unique vintage and antique stores perfect for nding those one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. Delivering this important content is a team eort. We’re incredibly grateful to the home service professionals, remodelers, banks, insurance agents, realtors and local businesses who advertise with us. Please support these community partners—they make it possible for us to keep Bastrop and Cedar Creek informed, inspired and connected.

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New 55-plus community on the way

The specics

The rst phase will include six model homes, which crews will begin work on by mid-August, followed by a 10,000-square-foot amenity center. A second and third phase will tackle construction of the 503 lots, Beil said. “We’re going to close on our rst phase of lots by the end of this year, and then about a year and a half later, the next phase will be delivered,” Beil said.

An active adult community is coming to Bastrop County, providing residents age 55 and older with dedicated housing and lifestyle amenities. Del Webb, a brand under PulteGroup that has constructed dozens of these active adult communities, broke ground on its latest residential space July 10. The multiphase development, Del Webb Lost Pines, is located in The Colony and will feature 503 lots across approximately 160 acres, said Pablo Rivas, division president of PulteGroup Central Texas. Bryan Beil, the vice president for PulteGroup, said the community will be its second in the Austin area. “I think for the longest time, Bastrop was on our radar. Its proximity to the airport, small- town charm and just the number of 55-plus households that live in this area made it feel like a great opportunity for us,” he said.

Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris and members of the PulteGroup team break ground July 10.

Del Webb Lost Pines amenities

Pickleball

Bocce

Resort-style pool

Del Webb Lost Pines

Golf simulator

Fitness center

Ballroom

SOURCE: PULTEGROUPCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Real estate

Here We Go Again 909 Chestnut St, Bastrop Facebook: Here We Go Again

Broadway Paul’s Antiques & Salvage oers an extensive collection of rusty treasures, including light xtures, metal signs, antique furniture and more.

Bastrop County antique and vintage shops guide

BURLON RD.

reimagine their space, Bastrop County’s antique and vintage shops. Whether you’re styling a single room or curat- ing an entire space, these locally owned shops are lled with furniture, décor and accents that help create a home that feels lived-in, layered and uniquely yours.

Across Bastrop County, vintage and antique shops oer more than collectibles—they provide inspiration for decorating the home with pieces that have character, craftsmanship and history. From tucked-away roadside stops to Main Street storefronts, each store oers some- thing dierent—but all invite exploration. For those looking to refresh a room or completely

290

Broadway Paul’s Antiques & Salvage 3864 Hwy. 290, Paige www.broadwaypauls.com

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

230

Bella’s Cottage Antiques 119 Main St, Smithville www.bellascottageantiquestx.com

Twig and Panama Rose 216 Main St., Smithville Facebook: Twig: A Fun Place to Shop in Smithville

Elgin Emporium 112 N. Main St., Elgin Instagram: Elgin Emporium

1209

230

BLUE FLAME RD.

Texas Trails Antiques & Marketplace 213 Main St, Smithville www.texastrailsantiquesandmarketplace.com

Redeemed Treasure 1556 Hwy. 71 W., Cedar Creek Facebook: Redeemed Treasure Thrift Store

McDade Antiques and Marketplace 565 Old Highway 20, McDade Facebook: McDade Antiques and Marketplace

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BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Real estate

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

New homes underway in Bastrop ISD

Looking ahead

New growth is concentrated in the Colony Oaks, Emile, Bluebonnet and Mina elementary school attendance zones, Gardiner said. When it comes to the response of developers to changes in the local housing market, Gardiner said lowered occupancy rates in multifamily have led property managers to lower or discount rents. Single family home developers have also begun to offer more concessions to buyers, he said.

New housing developments are underway across Bastrop ISD, according to a new report from the district’s demographic firm, Zonda Education. Zonda consultant Rocky Gardiner told trustees in May that 31 subdivisions are being built, with 18 more planned. As of April, groundwork had begun on over 1,470 lots across eight subdivisions, and more than 4,800 vacant lots are ready for development. He said the growth includes multifamily housing, with 250 units—82 of them duplex rentals—under construction and 2,000 more in planning stages. Gardiner noted that home prices for both new and existing properties doubled between 2014 and 2024, even as sales dipped in recent years. Still, Zonda consultants recently reported an uptick in new home starts and expect sales to rebound.

Both single and multifamily housing developments are bringing thousands of new homes to the area. New builds

1 The Colony 2 Valverde by D.R. Horton 3 Adelton 4 Camp Swift Estates

5 Silverleaf by

Taylor Morrison

6 Della Oasis 7 Stoic Falcon Subdivision 8 Los Milagros

969

Home sales in Bastrop ISD

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

Bastrop

0 500

Cedar Creek

304

SOURCE: BASTROP ISD, ZONDA EDUCATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Education Edition

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Real estate

BY JOEL VALLEY

Camp Haven Sanctuary may close

The action taken

Although an application for $57,000 in grant funding from Bastrop County was recently sub- mitted, it is largely dependent on whether there is enough community support, Ingalls said. Ingalls also discussed a funding request for $8,000 with Bastrop City Council during a meeting in early July that would help fund the creation of a Homeless Management Information System, or HMIS. An HMIS—which tracks homelessness, analyzes trends and measures the effectiveness of pro- grams—is mandatory for organizations seeking certain funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. “Because we don’t have HMIS-compatible data, we are not eligible for large funds,” Ingalls said.

Operations at Camp Haven Sanctuary are at risk of shutting down. In early June, the nonprofit organization, a former private campground that was repurposed into a shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness, cited a recent lack of reliable funding. Although founder Josiah Ingalls and his family have largely funded operations over the last four years, Ingalls said they have refinanced their home, put themselves into debt, and spent their entire life savings to build and maintain the cost of the shelter. “My family and I have sacrificed our once financially secure future in exchange to do God’s work,” he said. “Now, we need a miracle.” Camp Haven Sanctuary, one of two shelters in Bastrop County, can now only afford to take an individual in if they have a sponsor or can sponsor themselves. This system is expected to be in place until grants and government funding can be secured. “We do not like moving to this system because it gives an unfair advantage to individuals experiencing homelessness that have an income,” Camp Haven Sanctuary said in a statement posted to social media in early June. “However, given this situation, this is the only option to keep the shelter open at some capacity.” Camp Haven Sanctuary is run purely by volunteers, who also help with casework, provide peer-to-peer support, offer rides to doctor appointments and source food for the shelter.

How to help Area residents can contact 737-278-0293 or email help@camphavensanctuary.org to schedule a donation drop-off.

MESQUITE DR.

549 Mesquite Drive, Cedar Creek www.camphavensanctuary.org

What to donate:

Monetary donations in person or online at www.camphavensanctuary. org/ways-to-give

Also of note

Hygiene products

Food

Camp Haven officials stressed how keeping the homeless population off the streets and in shelters can help reduce negative economic impacts and make Bastrop County more attractive to prospective businesses. “If the grant funding, which covers one year of operations, is approved, it’ll get put into the Bastrop County budget,” Ingalls told Community Impact . “So we probably won’t see any funding till 2026.” He expects the Bastrop County Commissioners Court to have a decision sometime in September.

Toilet paper and paper towels

Cleaning supplies

Dog and cat food

Clothing

Laundry soap and fabric softener

Linens

Reclaimed or new building materials

SOURCE: CAMP HAVEN SANCTUARY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Real estate

BY GRACE DICKENS

What to know before installing an electric vehicle charger

Charging ports Level 1 and Level 2 options for charging ports are available for residential homes.

Level 1

Level 2

Voltage

120 volts

240 volts

Plug-in hybrid vehicle charge time from empty All-electric vehicle charge time from empty

With at least 840 public charging stations avail- able across the Austin metro per the U.S. Depart- ment of Energy, Magnify Electric president James Dougherty in Spicewood said the convenience of home charging is a major draw for installing electric vehicle chargers in homes. Magnify Electric services the Central Texas area. Dougherty shared with Community Impact what goes into the EV charger installation process and what homeowners need to know. What does the electric vehicle charger installation process involve? It starts with ... a brief phone consultation just to kind of understand the needs of the customer and the layout of the home. And then, a visit to the home so we can ... determine if any changes need to be made to the system. What factors should homeowners take into account when considering one? They want to think about what kind of vehicle they’re purchasing, whether it’s a hybrid or fully electric. They want to think about the different levels of chargers ... and if their electric system can handle the additional load. Is there a difference between attached and detached garages? The determining factor typically is where your main electrical panel is located in the home in relation to where you want your EV charging unit installed.

5-6 hours

1-2 hours

40-50 hours

4-10 hours

Electric range per hour of charging

2-5 miles

10-20 miles

Many homes are able to support this through an existing outlet

Many homes need a qualified electrician to install a higher voltage outlet

Installation process

JAMES DOUGHERTY

How much does it cost to install? We’ve done installs as low as just installing a 240V outlet, as low as a few hundred dollars, all the way up to full panel upgrades with multi-unit installs for multiple thousands of dollars. ... I would say on average it’s $2,500. How long does the installation process take? The install process can be done in 1-2 days depending on the intensity of the work. ... Permit- ting can drag it out several weeks. How can homeowners find a reputable installer? The best thing to do is to make sure they are ask- ing for electrical contractors that are insured and licensed. They are verifying they have performed EV installations before.

SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

22503 Hwy. 71, Spicewood www.magnifyelectric.com

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com .

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Homes sold faster in Bastrop and Cedar Creek in June 2025 compared to June 2024, according to data recently released by the Austin Board of Realtors and Unlock MLS. Residential market data

June 2024

June 2025

Number of homes sold by zip code

Average days on market

-6.55%

-10%

+22.22%

+72.72%

78602

78612

78602

78612

Homes sold by price point in June 2025

78602

78612

2 2

$900,000+

304

78612

$700,000-$899,999

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

Bastrop-Cedar Creek

<$299,999

June

2024

2025

150 134

New listings

56 74

Closed sales

Median home sales price

Homes under contract

June

2024

2025

$372,930

$386,000

78602

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 5124547636 WWW.ABOR.COM

$460,000

$440,000

78612

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3101 Highway 71 East, Suite 102 Bastrop, TX 78602

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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