North Central Austin Edition | May 2023

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

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 2 JUNE 2JUNE 29, 2023

Rainey rising up

New seafood and hot pot restaurants open in Austin

Celebrate 4th of July with Willie Nelson

Austin to Manor Trail underway

Transportation

Austin ISD approves 7% raise for teachers

Development around Rainey Street is surging, including a tower that will be Texas’ tallest. (Ben Thompson/Community Impact)

Booming entertainment district confronts rapid development, growing pains

City & Schools

Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries

BY BEN THOMPSON

with high-rises, a thriving entertain- ment strip and lakeside recreation access. Still, many related pres- sures for residents and visitors are now coming back to the forefront. Area residents have for years raised concerns over the eects of local changes, including the pace of new construction in the top des- tination. Recent drowning deaths

in Lady Bird Lake, extended street closures and more development plans are examples of some local issues that are yet to be fully solved. “Rainey Street is not the same Rainey Street it was 10, 20, 30 years ago. It’s ever evolving,” said Council Member Zo Qadri, the district’s rep- resentative. “I think it’s important CONTINUED ON 16

As Austin’s city center continues its revamp, the Rainey Street district’s small corner of downtown is see- ing a large share of the local growth that’s bringing signicant opportu- nities—and challenges—to the area. The Rainey area, once a quieter Hispanic residential community, is now an urban sector brimming

When entrepreneurs succeed, our communities do too

As America’s #1 business lender, we’re invested in local economies with over $30 billion in business loans. Our commitment includes providing funding to under-resourced business owners and supporting entrepreneurs with the tools and resources to help them make every move matter.

My teammates work closely with entrepreneurs here in Austin. We are here to help them start and grow their business, so they can continue to create jobs and keep our community strong.

David Bader President, Bank of America Austin

See how we support small businesses at bankofamerica.com/austin

What would you like the power to do? ®

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Learn About Austin’s Water Quality We’re Continuously Sampling and Testing

Austin Water collects and tests samples at our treatment plants and across our water system multiple times a day, every day, for bacteria, and chemicals that could pose a risk to our customers. Our highest priority is ensuring that our water continues to be safe to drink . We have taken steps to protect drinking water safety and quality in key areas that include: 6 Protecting Vital Infrastructure 6 Enhancing Treatment Reliability 6 Ensuring Quality Control in Storage, Pressure and Pipes 6 Increasing Finished Drinking Water Testing An expanded snapshot of our rigorous quality controls is posted on our website as well as in our annual Drinking Water Quality Report. Find the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report online at the link below , or call 512-972-0155 to receive a copy by email or mail. Austin Water’s annual consumer confidence report describes the overall quality of water from its raw collection and storage to the treated purity at your tap. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that all drinking water suppliers provide a water quality report to their customers on an annual basis.

Austin Water Quality Report 2022 Austinwater.org/WaterQuality Para una versión en Español llame al 512-972-0459.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

512-232-5000 EdServices@austin.utexas.edu

E nroll anytime in UT's online high school courses to catch up or get ahead. Full-time d iploma p rogram and single courses available including Honors and A P TM subjects .

More Rebates, More Savings » Find instant savings on energy efficient products at local stores » Enjoy rebates averaging $1,800 on home energy improvements » Get up to $115 in thermostat rebates and incentives » Enjoy an $800 rebate on eligible heat pump water heaters » See if you qualify for free home energy improvements » Monitor your energy use and get savings tips at coautilities.com Learn more ways to save at austinenergy.com/go/summer

For more informatio n visit highschool.utexas.edu /hs_courses

After 7 years, one Pandemic, & Multiple Ice Storms..

Our Living Room Is Open To Everyone

Beer ! Cider ! Wine! Mead ! Dog Friendly !

Customer Driven. Community Focused.

Fri - Sun: 11AM - 10PM 8201 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

THIS ISSUE

MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Deeda Lovett EDITOR Darcy Sprague REPORTERS Katy McAfee, Ben Thompson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joseph Veloz ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Stephanie Johnson METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Travis Baker MANAGING EDITOR Amy Denney COPY EDITOR Kasey Salisbury SENIOR ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Haley Grace CONTACT US 16225 Impact Way, Ste. 1, Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES ctanews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING ctaads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising 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 Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes. ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH

FROM DEEDA: It feels like every month we’re writing about new development claiming another block or neighborhood in Central Austin, and this month is no dierent. The focus of our front-page story is the Rainey Street District. Reporter Ben Thompson provides an update on the projects going vertical in the coming months and how the continued transformation of the historic street is aecting public safety. Deeda Lovett, GENERAL MANAGER

FROM DARCY: On May 18, Austin ISD voted to provide raises for teachers and sta by taking up to $53 million from their fund balance—essentially their savings account. As a former education reporter, I've seen districts take this action before. But given the nancial diculties AISD is facing from shifting populations and state recapture, trustees say the investment is a necessary risk. Read more about their plan and local election results on Page 15. Darcy Sprague, EDITOR

What does SWAG stand for? “Stu We All Get” as CI Patrons

communityimpact.com

@impactnewsatx

@impactnews_cta

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

@communityimpactaustin

Proudly printed by

Get back in motion with ARC Orthopedic care ARC Orthopedics offers surgical, non - surgical and minimally invasive treatment options for a strong recovery and minimal pain. Relieve muscle, bone, or joint pain from sports injuries, arthritis, or repetitive use. Near you at ARC Medical Park Tower Orthopedics & ARC Far West

Book now at ARCorthopedics.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

WALLS: Jute AF-80, Aura® Interior, Matte DOOR: Black 2132-10, Aura® Exterior, Satin

Get Two Free Benjamin Moore ® Color Samples Shop Online. Use the code: FREE SAMPLES WHY TRY ONE NEW COLOR WHEN YOU CAN TRY TWO? SHOP ONLINE. USE THE CODE: FREE SAMPLES . Arbor Trails (512) 373-3129 Downtown (512) 480-8466 IH-35 (512) 351-9300 Koenig (512) 452-6202 Oakhill

Offer valid for two (2) free Benjamin Moore® Color Samples at participating retailer. Products may vary from store to store. Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with other offers or applied to prior purchases. Retailer reserves the right to cancel or modify offer at any time without notice. Expires . Color accuracy is ensured only when tinted in quality Benjamin Moore paints. Color representations may differ slightly from actual paint. ©2022 Benjamin Moore & Co. Aura, Benjamin Moore, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co. 11/22 XX/XX/XXXX 6/30/2023.

(512) 358-6111 Parmer Lane (512) 356-9965 Westlake (512) 329-8891 ClementsPaint.com

Locally Owned. An Austin Institution since 1986.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE Mobility Authority

Navigating the tolling landscape can be complicated. We’re the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (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

The electronic tag provider TxTag is not owned nor operated by the Mobility Authority.

Late payment fees do apply

The Mobility Authority is not TxTag

We accept a variety of electronic tags

The Mobility Authority does not have access to TxTag account details. While it is accepted on Mobility Authority roads, TxTag is owned and operated by The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

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

TxDOT

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

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.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE

NORTH AUSTIN

183

EXECUTIVE CENTER DR.

MOPAC

Gràcia

Soupleaf

COURTESY GRÀCIA

COURTESY SOUPLEAF

3 House of Preservation —a Dal- las-based medical spa that oers skin care and beauty treatments—opened its rst Austin location in March. The spa, founded by friends Brittany Rick- etts and Rylie Bland, oers laser hair removal, facials, microneedling and other aesthetic procedures. House of Preservation is located in the Triangle at 815 W. 47th St., Ste. 100, Austin. www.houseofpreservation.com 4 A new addiction treatment facility called The Meadows Outpatient Center opened May 5. The facility oers an eight-week intensive outpatient pro- gram for patients with drug or alcohol addiction and other mental health issues. The facility includes a yoga studio, an expressive arts area and more. The Mead- ows Outpatient Center is located at 3721 Executive Center Drive, Ste. 102, Austin. 866-356-9801. www.meadowsoutpa- tient.com/locations/austin-texas 5 On May 15, Shalom Austin cele- brated the opening of its renovated and expanded Dell Jewish Community Center at 7300 Hart Ln., Austin. The 37,805-square-foot, two-story facility includes a tness center, living room, cafe, education center, meeting rooms and all-gender restrooms. 512-735-8000. www.shalomaustin.org 6 Local mini-chain One Taco opened its eighth Austin location next to sports bar Little Woodrows on 5425 Burnet Road, No. 110, Austin, in late April. The new taqueria serves breakfast tacos— including one with eggs, bacon and potato wrapped in a pancake with a side of maple syrup—street-style tacos including carne asada and al pastor, and

290

The Meadows Outpatient Center

COURTESY THE MEADOWS OUTPATIENT CENTER

several vegetarian options. The restau- rant also serves agua frescas and the “Me Latte” with cold brew and horchata. www.onetaco.com CLOSINGS 7 The JuiceLand location at 4500 Duval St., Austin, permanently closed at the end of April due to rising rent costs. Vinyl shop Exploded Records, which was inside the Duval JuiceLand, relocated to the 2828 Guadalupe St., Austin location in May. JuiceLand serves fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, wellness shots and plant-based meals. www.juiceland.com ANNIVERSARIES 8 Texas Archive of the Moving Image celebrated 20 years in business in April. The Austin-based lm archive is used as a resource for educators, students and the public. Since its founding in 2003, the organization has digitized 48,000 lms and videos. TAMI’s oce is located at 3908 Ave. B, Ste. 105, Austin. www.texasarchive.org

NORTH CENTRAL NOW OPEN

craft cocktails and over 60 selec- tions of wine. The restaurant is led by Cameron Lockley, the owner of Gusto Italian Kitchen + Wine Bar, and Execu- tive Chef Jason Tallent. 512-649-4844. www.graciamediterranean.com 2 A new buet-style hot pot restau- rant called Soupleaf opened at 6929 Airport Blvd., Austin, in late April. The family-owned restaurant serves south- ern-style Chinese hot pot menu with a variety of soup bases, meats, seafood and vegetable options. 512-373-3378. www.soupleaotpot.com

1 Gràcia , a new full-service Mediterra- nean restaurant and wine bar, opened at 4800 Burnet Road, Ste. 450, Austin, in the former Flu Meringues+More space in early April. Gràcia’s menu focuses on seafood and features dishes such as gnocchi paired with a seafood bolognese, roasted baby eggplant seasoned with Aleppo chili oil and shrimp wrapped in serrano ham. The drink menu includes

hello SUMMER

WE’RE ON THE ROADS AGAIN! The City of Austin is improving hundreds of streets this summer. Visit austintexas.gov/streetmaintenance to see if your street is scheduled to be resurfaced and to fill out our street maintenance survey.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

RIO GRANDE ST.

El Cockght

Bill's Oyster

COURTESY EL COCKFIGHT

BEN THOMPSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COLORADO ST.

Estelle's Social Lounge

The Kitchen

RED RIVER ST.

KATY MCAFEECOMMUNITY IMPACT

COURTESY THE KITCHEN

DRISKILL ST.

4 Nashville-based Standard Proof Whiskey Co. opened its rst Austin location in April. The restaurant and bar serve craft whiskey cocktails, Nashville hot chicken sandwich- es, salads and more. Standard Proof Whiskey Co. is located at 51 Rainey St., Ste. 140-A, Austin. 512- 220-2318. www.standardproofwhiskey.com 5 Kiki Price —a luxury women’s shoe company—opened its rst brick-and mortar store in Austin in late April. The company, owned by Kimberly Baltzell and Lucy Price, sells comfortable high-heel shoes handcrafted in Italy. The store is located at 908 W. 12th St., Austin. www.kikiprice.com 6 The Blanton Museum of Art celebrat- ed the grand opening of its Moody Patio after two years of construction May 13. The redesign includes 15 petal-shaped shading structures in the courtyard. The museum now has new hours, ticket prices, art installations and a Second Sat- urdays program. The Blanton is located at 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Austin. www.blantonmuseum.org

7 North Austin ramen spot Sazan Ramen opened a new sister restaurant called Daiboku in West Campus on May 17. The restaurant—located at 609 W. 29th St., Austin—oers both counter service and an omakase-style menu. The ramen menu features smoked chicken shoyu ramen and spicy miso ramen with pork shoulder. Daiboku also serves an omakase-style ramen menu at the 10-seat ramen bar. Daiboku is located at 609 W. 29th St., Austin. 8 Kimbal Musk, brother of Tesla CEO Elon Musk, will open an Ameri- can Bistro called The Kitchen in 2024. Kimbal Musk co-founded and chef Hugo Matheson opened the rst location in 2004 in Colorado. The restaurant will open in the Sixth and Guadalupe tower at 400 W. Sixth St., Austin. The Kitch- en Upstairs, will open later and oer a cocktail lounge and meeting space. www.thekitchenbistros.com www.daibokuramen.com COMING SOON

DOWNTOWN WEST CAMPUS NOW OPEN 1 A new seafood restaurant and cocktail bar called Bill’s Oyster opened at 205 W. Third St., Austin, on May 5. The restaurant is owned by friends Stewart Jarmon—an Austin native and St. Edward’s University alumnus—and Daniel Berg, a New Yorker who will serve as executive chef. The food menu consists of oysters, shellsh, caviar, a signature burger and seafood towers. It is named after Berg’s three-year-old son. www.billsoyster.com

2 El Cockght —a new bar from the team behind bars Mama Dearest, The Beez Kneez and Red Headed Stepchild— opened in the former HandleBar space on April 12. The bar is inspired by Oaxaca, Mexico; serves tequila and mezcal craft cocktails; and has a rooftop patio. El Cockght is located at 121 E. Fifth St., Austin. Instagram: elcockght 3 A new nightlife venue called Estelle’s Social Lounge opened at Truluck’s former downtown location in late May. The venue comes from NoCo Hospitality, the team behind bars Super- stition and Higher Ground. Estelle’s is located at 400 Colorado St., Austin. 512-900-7626. www.estellesatx.com

COFER & CONNELLY FAMILY LAW • CRIMINAL LAW • PERSONAL INJURY

Rick Cofer

COFERCONNELLY.COM • 602 W. 11 T H ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701 • 512-200-3801

Jeffrey Connelly

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE

MOPAC

Wanderlust Wine Co. with Vision Coffee Shop

COURTESY WANDERLUST WINE CO. WITH VISION COFFEE SHOP

360

290

Underdog

COURTESY UNDERDOG

SOUTH CENTRAL NOW OPEN

3 Underdog , a wine bar, restaurant and retail space, opened in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood May 10. Underdog serves a sustainable wine list and Korean dishes, such as handmade noodles as well as crispy potato and leek pancakes with cav- iar. Underdog is led by Claudia Lee and Momofuku alumnus Richard Hargreave. It is located at 1600 S. First St., Austin. www.underdog-atx.com 4 A new Barcelona-inspired restaurant called El Raval opened in the former Barlata space May 12. The restaurant seats 115 people with a full bar and an outdoor patio. The menu includes charcuterie; a raw bar; and a wide range of vegetarian, seafood and meat tapas. El Raval is led by chef Laila Bazahm, who named the restaurant after her neigh- borhood. El Raval is located at 1500 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin. 512-473-2211. www.elravalatx.com 5 A new food hall called The Tailor Shop opened in the former Gordough’s Pub House space in March. The food hall serves pizza from Pizzeria Grata, tacos

from Taqueria 1836, and craft beer and cocktails. The food hall—located at 2700 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin—also hosts live

music events and happy hours. Instagram: thetailorshopaustin

1 The Loren at Lady Bird Lake hotel opened a new cafe April 10. Cafe at the Loren serves coffee, cocktails and wine to drink and sandwiches, salads and flat- breads to eat. The all-day cafe also offers croissants and pastries from local bakery Sour Duck Market. Cafe at the Loren is located at 1211 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.thelorenhotels.com/austin/cuisine/ coffee-shop 2 Wanderlust Wine Co. and Vision Coffee Shop collaborated to open a new wine bar and cafe in the former Squarerut Kava Bar space in April. The cafe serves espresso, tea, matcha and adaptogenic coffees from Vision along with wine on tap and frozen cocktails from Wanderlust. Wanderlust Wine Co. and Vision Coffee Shop is located at 1601 Barton Springs Road, Austin. 512-265-6275. www.wanderlustwine.com www.visionatx.com

6 Steepologie Teas opened at Barton Creek Square Mall on the upper-level Dillard’s wing next to Sephora in May. The tea store offers more than 230 fresh, loose-leaf teas and 50 bagged teas in addition to tea dishes, gift packs and more. Steepologie Teas is located at 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin. www.steepologie.com ANNIVERSARIES 7 Sweet Tooth Family Dental celebrat- ed 10 years in business this spring. Owner Neil Patel said he signed a lease for another 10 years at the office’s location at 515 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 107, Austin. Sweet Tooth focuses on education and preventive care, offering cleanings, fillings, Invisalign, teeth whitening and many other services. 512-448-9669. www.sweettoothaustin.com

El Raval

COURTESY MOE ALJAFF

RENOVATIONS 8 Renovations have started on a high-priority Fire/Emergency Medical Services station at 5309 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, with an expected comple- tion date of early 2024. The renovated station will be about 10,600 square feet and have a three-vehicle apparatus bay and fitness room, officials said. It is being designed as a U.S. Green Building to show integrated concepts of technology and nature. In addition, Art in Public Places art—a collaboration with local and nation- ally known artists—will be integrated into the site design. The work began in April. www.austintexas.gov/department/fire

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

CENTRAL AUSTIN LOCATION

WE’RE HIRING

Swimming is a critical life skill and a lifelong fitness activity.

WHY WATERLOO?

• Learn to Swim • New Summer Programs • Adult Lessons and Fitness • Private Lessons PROGRAMS AT WATERLOO

• SAFETY! Chlorinated/UV Filter Pools • Low instructor: student ratios • Curriculum that gets results! • Trained Instructors...we do this year round • Two indoor heated pools

3200 W. ANDERSON LN. � AUSTIN � NEAR MOPAC � WATERLOOSWIMMING.COM

4103 N. Interstate 35 Austin, TX • 512.472.5015 • NTRocks.com Nature’s Treasures “We Rock” ~presents~

June 24-25 Free Admission • Pracitioners • Speakers Tarot & Oracle Expo

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

IMPACTS

290 Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

COMPILED BY KATY MCAFEE

EAST AUSTIN

BARBARA JORDAN BLVD.

Ezov

Uptown Sports Club

COURTESY EZOV

KATY MCAFEE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

2708 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin, on April 27. The restaurant has a 98-seat dining room and a 30-seat private dining area. Ezov’s menu has shareable, seasonal items, including smashed cucumber with labne and nigella seed, and halloumi with date molasses and dukkah—a nut, seed and spice blend. 512-305-1118. Instagram: ezovatx 4 A new weekend hangout called Bar Toti opened at 2113 Manor Road, Austin, on the Este garden grounds, on April 21. Bar Toti is open Friday and Saturday nights serving a full kitchen and bar menu inspired by Mexican, French and Spanish cuisines. The bar’s highlight item is a Mexican burger with a sesame bun, white American cheese, seared ham, chi- potle mayo and escabeche relish. Bar Toti is led by chef Fermin Nunez, a native of Torreón, Mexico, who has worked in Aus- tin restaurants, including La Condesa and Uchiko, for over 10 years. 512-522-4047. www.bartoti.com 5 Civil Goat Coffee opened its third location at 2610 Manor Road, Austin, on March 11. The coffee shop—led by Austin local Chris O’Brien—sells espresso drinks, tea, doughnuts, acai bowls, salads and toasts. The shop’s mascot, a pygmy goat named Butters, lives at the Cuernavaca location. www.civilgoat.com 6 Rozco’s Comedy Club opened at 1805 E. Seventh St., Austin, in the former Santa Cruz Theater space in late March. The locally owned comedy club hosts open mic nights, local stand-up come- dy acts and more. The club also serves cocktails and beer. 512-956-4669. www.rozcoscomedy.com

Bar Toti

COURTESY BAR TOTI

183

973 ANNIVERSARIES 7 Austin Eastciders celebrated 10 years in business in May. The cider company, founded in 2013 by Ed Gibson and Mark King, sells dozens of flavored ciders and cider cocktails. Austin Eastciders’ tasting room, The Collaboratory, is located at 979 Springdale Road, Austin. CLOSINGS 8 Austin-area Bed Bath & Beyond loca- tions have begun winding down follow- ing an April 23 announcement that the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The home goods retailer—known for its wide selection of kitchen appliances, bathroom accessories and college dorm furnishings—will have closing store sales with items between 10%-30% off while the company goes through the bankrupt- cy process. Bed Bath & Beyond’s east Austin location is at 1201 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Austin. 130 TOLL

C O L O R A

EAST AUSTIN NOW OPEN

2 A new cocktail bar and restaurant called Holiday opened at 5020 E. Sev- enth St., Austin, in late March. Holiday serves several seasonal plates and handcrafted cocktails called “fancies.” The concept is led by co-owners John DiCicco, Erin Ashford and Executive Chef Peter Klein, who leads the food program. The trio met while working at the Southern restaurant Olamaie. www.holidayon7th.com 3 A new Mediterranean restaurant with Israeli influences called Ezov opened at

1 New Orleans-inspired restaurant Uptown Sports Club opened in a his- toric building located at 1200 E. 6th St, Austin, on March 27. The new bar and restaurant—led by Aaron Franklin of Franklin’s Barbecue—has open seating and serves po’boys, gumbo, handcrafted cocktails and local beers. 512-551-2013. www.uptownsports.club

1900 ALDRICH STREET, SUITE 170 AUSTIN, TX 78723 512-617-9157 *Get Your First Now Open

SCAN HERE TO FIND OUR LOCATION

1900 ALDRICH STREET, SUITE 170 AUSTIN, TX 78723 512-617-9157 • waxcenter.com

waxcenter.com

Treat yourself to the European Wax Center experience and we’ll treat you to your first wax FREE. * Our exclusive, violet wax combined with our specially trained experts is our secret to making your experience as comfortable as possible. Experience a new state of smooth. Visit us at Austin - Aldrich Street and your first Bikini line, underarm, nose, ear or brow wax is on us. *Offer valid for first time guests. Additional restrictions may apply, see participating center for more details. European Wax Center locations are independently owned and operated and participation may vary. ©2023 EWC Franchisor LLC. All rights reserved. European Wax Center is a registered trademark. *Visit us at Aldrich Street and your first Bikini line, underarm, nose, ear or brow wax is on us! Offer valid for first time guests. Additional restrictions may apply, see participating center for more details. European Wax Center locations are independently owned and operated and participation may vary. ©2023 EWC Franchisor LLC. All rights reserved. European Wax Center is a registered trademark.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

TODO LIST

TRANSPORTATION UPDATES

June & July events

COMPILED BY ELLE BENT & KATY MCAFEE

13 THROUGH 18 ENJOY HAIRSPRAY Broadway Across America will perform “Hairspray”—a musical set in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1962. The play follows the story of high schooler Tracy Turnblad as she pursues dancing on local television and ghts against racial segregation. Times vary. $30+. Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman, Austin. 512-471-1444. www.texasperformingarts. org/broadwayinaustin 14 THROUGH JULY 9 SEE A THEATRICAL PLAY Beginning June 14 and running until July 9, Zach Theatre presents “Noises O,” a 1982 play by Michael Fran. The production is a comedy following a touring theatrical troupe in which opening night becomes a disaster. Times vary. $25-$67. The Topfer at Zach Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin. 512- 476-0541. www.tickets.zachtheatre.org 17 HONOR JUNETEENTH The Central Texas Juneteenth Committee will host a parade and festival celebrating the historic day, June 19, which marks the abolition of slavery in Texas. 9:30 a.m.-noon (festival), 10 a.m.- noon (parade). Free. 1183 Chestnut Ave., Austin (parade start); 2300 Rosewood Ave., Austin (festival). www.juneteenthcentraltexas.com

$7.9M second phase of Austin to Manor Trail under construction

ONGOING PROJECT

South African wines. Osome is an Austin company by chef John Gocong. Times vary. $125. Cape Bottle Room, 500 San Marcos St., Ste. 102, Austin. www.capebottleroom.com/events THROUGH AUGUST 14 STUDENTS TAKE SUMMER BREAK The last day of classes for Austin ISD students was May 25. Classes for the 2023-24 academic year will resume Aug. 14 for AISD. www.austinisd.org/calendar Tickets are on sale for Formula 1, which will take place from Oct. 20-22 at the Circuit of the Americas. The Killers along with Adam Lambert and Queen will perform that weekend at the event. Ticket price varies. 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin. 512-301-6600. www.circuitoftheamericas.com 10 CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH Waterloo Greenway will host its Rainbow on the Creek event to celebrate Pride month. The family-friendly event will include live music, performances and exhibits from LGBTQ+ businesses and nonprots. 10 a.m.-noon. Meredith Heritage Tree Deck, 1301 Trinity St., Austin; 6-10 p.m. at the Moody Amphitheater, 401 Trinity St., Austin. Free. www.waterloogreenway.org THROUGH OCTOBER 22 GET RACING TICKETS

MOCKINGBIRD LN.

BY DARCY SPRAGUE

S. CONGRESS AVE.

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES The second phase of the Austin to Manor Trail is underway.

In April, the city of Austin began construction on the second phase of a trail connecting Austin to the neighboring city of Manor to the east. The project, the Austin to Manor Trail, will be a 5.5-mile trail starting at Daan Lane and ending near Ben E. Fisher Park in Manor. The stretch under construction is 2.9 miles, starting at Lindell Lane in Austin and running to Ben E. Fisher Park in Manor. The rst phase was nished in 2014. Council Member Natasha Harp- er-Madison, who represents the area, said the trail will make it easier for people to walk or bike from Austin to Manor. The trail will be a 12-foot-wide concrete path. It will run through mainly agricultural land. When completed, the trail will connect to the existing Southern Walnut Creek Trail, according to the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. The trail is funded through

Southern Walnut Creek Trail Austin to Manor Trail (Phase 1) Austin to Manor Trail (Phase 2)

290

ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF MAY 18. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT CTANEWSCOMMUNITYIMPACT.COM. Congress intersection improvements The Austin Department of Trans- portation began improvements at the intersection of South Congress Avenue and Stassney Lane in May. The project is part of the work that will be completed on South Congress Avenue between Mockingbird Lane and Little Texas Lane. The improvements will add a second southbound left-turn on Congress at Stassney, raised concrete medians on Congress, new separated bicycle and pedestrian paths, and six new bus stops. Timeline: May-late 2023 Cost: $5.17 million Funding sources: city of Austin mobil- ity bond, Capital Metro

Camp Lucy is located in the Hill Country.

JULY 04

CELEBRATE WITH WILLIE Q2 STADIUM

WORTH THE TRIP Camp Lucy will host a four-night women’s wellness retreat July 20-23 . The retreat will include daily chef- prepared meals; yoga and meditation classes; stargazing sessions; sound baths; and other workshops and social hours. $945. Camp Lucy, 3509 Creek Road, Dripping Springs. Eventbrite: Camp Lucy Wellness Retreat

BEN E. FISHER PARK

130

Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic will feature Willie Nelson & Family, and other performers plus food, drinks and reworks. 1 p.m. (doors), 2 p.m. (show). $49-$304. 10414 McKalla Place, Austin. www.q2stadium.com

290

DECKER TALLGRASS PRAIRIE PRESERVE

JUNE THROUGH JUNE 29 PAIR WINES WITH SUSHI

JOHNNY MORRIS RD.

PUG RIPPY RD.

Every Thursday through June 29, Cape Bottle Room and Osome will host Flight Night, a sushi and wine experience. Tickets include 10 courses paired with

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

mobility bonds, a Capital Area Metro- politan Planning Organization grant and a Travis County interlocal agree- ment. The second phase is expected to cost $7.9 million, according to the

Austin Public Works Department. Eventually, Travis County Parks plans to connect the trail to Northeast Metropolitan Park in Pugerville.

CREEKRD.

Find more or submit Central Austin events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.

HIGHLAND 5775 Airport Blvd (512) 366-8300 ARBORETUM 10515 North Mopac Expressway (512) 342-6893

HOME EDITION COMMUNITY IMPACT’S COMING SOON

A worry-free Summer with 24/7 Virtual Care Allergies, cold & flu, rashes, sunburn, swimmer’s ear, UTIs, nausea, cough & sore throat, minor injuries, STIs, and more

LOCAL BUSINESSES: CONTACT US FOR ADVERTISING

DIGITAL

DIRECT MAIL

�866� 989�6808 � COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM�ADVERTISE

NormanMD.com

Get Hired!

Jobs starting at $20/hr + Benefits

Apply today at AustinCityJobs.org

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CITY & SCHOOLS

News from Austin ISD, Austin & Travis County

Austin City Council will meet May 30 and June 6 at 9 a.m. and June 1 and 8 at 10 a.m. 301 W. Second St., Austin. www.austintexas.gov/ austin-city-council Travis County Commissioners Court will meet June 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 9 MEETINGS WE COVER HIGHLIGHTS AUSTIN On May 4, City Council voted to eliminate minimum parking requirements that apply to all kinds of development, ranging from housing to retailers. A final ordinance will return to council by the end of 2023. TRAVIS COUNTY Fentanyl- related deaths more than doubled from 2021 to 2022 and particularly affected Hispanic and Black communities as well as women, a new medical examiner’s report found. The data, released on April 26, comes as local officials continue focusing on combating overdoses after declaring drug deaths to be a public health crisis in 2022. County Judge Andy Brown said commissioners could next reserve $750,000 in the fiscal year 2023-24 budget to create an overdose prevention fund. AUSTIN On May 2, the city’s library system announced a pilot program for enhanced library cards that can double as photo identification recognized by many city departments and local organizations as a valid form of identification. AUSTIN The city will pay $100,000 to a protester injured by police in the May 2020 demonstrations, the latest in a growing series of payouts from the event. Austin’s total tab for police brutality payouts from the protests now sits at $18.98 million after council approved the settlement agreement May 4.

Austin voters strongly supported increased police oversight AUSTIN On May 6, Austin voters chose between two police oversight measures; voters passed Prop A with 79.27% and Prop B failed with just 19.51%. Prop A had a landslide victory BY BEN THOMPSON based on Prop A’s text with extensive changes to language and oversight outcomes. “We’re going to have a police 79.27% For 20.73% Against PROPOSITION A Pass Fail VOTING RESULTS

oversight system now where we can be much more assured that full and thorough investigations will occur when an allegation of wrongdoing is made, and that facts about miscon- duct are going to see the light of day,” Equity Action board President Chris Harris said. Looking ahead, enacting all of Prop A’s policies could still depend on the outcome of negotiations between the city and the police association. City leaders said they hope to get a new

PROPOSITION B

in Austin’s May election as voters rejected the competing police over- sight measure, Prop B. Prop A was backed by the criminal justice nonprofit Equity Action to strengthen police transparency and accountability, its leaders said. Prop B was backed by Voters for Oversight and Police Accountability as well as the Austin Police Association and was

19.51% For 80.49% Against

SOURCES: HAYS, TRAVIS AND WILLIAMSON COUNTIES/ COMMUNITY IMPACT contract in place soon, but the police association is also reviewing the elec- tion results and “illegal provisions” in Prop A, APA President Thomas Villarreal said in a statement.

AISD trustees approve 7% raise for teachers

DPS patrols paused, profiling concerns raised

BY BEN THOMPSON

30-April 27 showed a sharp uptick in traffic stops of Hispanic drivers. DPS Director Steven McCraw said the jump in traffic stops of Hispanic/ Latino drivers was expected given increased patrols in East Austin. The DPS partnership was temporar- ily suspended May 13 when troopers were relocated to the Mexican border, but officials say it will resume.

AUSTIN Early data from a Texas Department of Public Safety operation in Austin show Hispanic people made up most of the traffic stops and arrests. Nearly 90% of 167 arrests as of April 22 were of Black or Latino people, per county attorney data, and DPS data covering March

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

AUSTIN ISD On May 18, trustees unanimously approved Austin ISD's 2023-24 compensation package including a 7% raises for teachers. The package includes a $4 increase for all classified employees, creates a $20 minimum wage and provides a 3%-7% increase for other staff. It will require the district to spend up to $53 million of its reserve funds, according to district documents. AISD will still have about $221 million in reserve funds. “There's a little bit of risk with this budget, but there's a real risk of not educating our students,” AISD board President Arati Singh said on May 18. Trustees are expected to approve the full 2023-24 budget on June 22.

SKEWED TRAFFIC STOPS

2022

March 30-April 27 2023

18,743

11,841

Data shows state troopers mostly pulled over Hispanic/ Latino drivers over one month of a policing partnership in Austin. Alaska Native/American Indian Asian/Pacific Islander Black Hispanic/Latino White

total traffic stops

4.2% 0.26% 16.5% 38.17% 40.87%

4.63% 0.35% 15.01% 54.21% 25.8%

a.m. 700 Lavaca St., Austin. www.traviscountytx.gov/ commissioners-court

DPS PARTNERSHIP

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Call, go online, or download the

mobile app today.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

PROJECTS PEAKING The Rainey Street area has multiple major developments underway, including at least seven additions to the downtown skyline.

the past. The 48-story high-rise only moved forward after developers agreed to avoid wiping out pieces of the historic district by relocating old bungalows within the property to serve as eateries or bars. “While the landscape of Rainey has changed over recent years, its charac- ter and attraction is unwavering. It’s important to us to keep the history and authenticity of the Rainey neigh- borhood alive,” said Lauren Little, marketing director for developer LV Collective. For Royal Blue Grocery’s owners, enough demand built at their Rainey location—now their busiest—that they decided to open a second store less than a half mile away. “It took a long time; it cost a lot of money, but we’re glad we have it because we know that it’ll only grow as those buildings get completed over there,” co-owner Craig Staley said. Even at the height of building activ- ity, the end is not in sight just yet with even more projects proposed. “Despite the slowdown in newly announced projects in the area, there is robust potential for future devel- opment once the current crop of active projects have delivered and are absorbed by the market,” the Down- town Austin Alliance, which monitors downtown and represents local prop- erty owners, said in a statement. Getting around Rainey’s economic and cultural boom is not without some problems, however. Dana Evans has owned a space at The Shore condominiums for more than ve years, but he said local disruptions made it “almost unliv- able.” He moved to Leander while waiting for the area to settle down so he can sell his place. Moving through the Rainey area is often dicult with bargoers, scoot- ers and heavy vehicle trac clogging

SOURCES: AUSTIN ENERGY, CITY OF AUSTIN, THE TRAIL CONSERVANCY, VARIOUS DEVELOPERSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Key:

Bars

Road or lane closed

ONGOING PROJECTS

1 Waterline

98 Red River St.

74 STORIES • 352 UNITS, 251 ROOMS • MIXEDUSE

2 The Travis

50 STORIES • 414 UNITS 80 Red River St.

BEN THOMPSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

56 STORIES • 300 UNITS 3 The Modern Austin Residences 610 Davis St.

RAINEY STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT FEDERAL

4 Vesper

84 East Ave.

41 STORIES • 283 UNITS

5 Paseo

RENDERING COURTESY LINCOLN PROPERTY COMPANY

80 Rainey St.

1 Waterline

48 STORIES • 557 UNITS

6 Cambria Hotel 68 East Ave.

16 STORIES • 212 ROOMS

LADY BIRD LAKE

7 700 River

700 River St.

43 STORIES • 377 UNITS • MIXEDUSE

SOURCES: AUSTIN ENERGY, CITY OF AUSTIN, THE TRAIL CONSERVANCY, VARIOUS DEVELOPERSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

RAINEY STREET DISTRICT CITY

8 The Conuence OTHER UPDATES 9 Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Waterloo Greenway Phase 2

BEN THOMPSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

10 Rainey substation

50% increase to downtown energy grid capacity

11 Rainey Trailhead

Phase 2 expansion

Park improvement project

RENDERING COURTESY LV COLLECTIVE

5 Paseo

MAP NOT TO SCALE

vertically, but area stakeholders said now is likely the peak of development with more than 4 million square feet of new construction underway. Projects now in motion include a 16-story hotel on East Avenue, the long-awaited Emma S. Barrientos Mexican-American Cultural Cen- ter expansion, and several living or

mixed-use spaces such as Water- line—set to be Texas’ tallest tower at over 1,000 feet. Austin Energy also invested $30 million in a new substa- tion on Lambie Street to power the new growth. Paseo broke ground in February and is bringing a new look to its property at 80 Rainey St. while also preserving

CONTINUED FROM 1

to make sure that—growth is very important—but to make sure that we do listen to these concerns of peo- ple who live there or around there.” Rush on Rainey The area’s prole has already moved

ACCOMPLISH MORE this summer at ACC

CLASSES START MAY 30 austincc.edu/summer

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

RAINEY ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT REIGNS The Rainey Street area consistently receives more visitors per year than Austin’s other top nightlife destinations.

sidewalks and roadways. It’s even harder during events such as South by Southwest Conference & Festivals or others at the nearby convention center, and further complicated by road closures related to in-progress construction. The district is only accessible via Red River Street or o the I-35 front- age road, but Red River is closed for Waterline’s construction. “These giant, tall buildings are hav- ing a signicant impact. … We’re in this forever, it seems like, and get no relief from the trac,” Evans said. A community meeting about such area issues ended up as one of the best-attended events Qadri’s oce has held since he took oce, he said, with residents sharing questions about mobility, such as how emer- gency vehicles could quickly move through if an incident arises. Cristal Corrales, a spokesperson for the Aus- tin Transportation and Public Works Department, or TPW, said transpor- tation planners are also paying atten- tion to the “biggest current challenge” of construction in the district. “TPW is trying to balance the exist- ing mobility needs of the neighborhood with the right-of-way closure requests to accommodate construction plans,” she said in an email. “TPW would like to enable the contractors to nish con- struction as quickly as possible while still preserving the safety and mobility of existing residents and users.” Austin is working with the Texas Department of Transportation to improve the I-35 underpass, and a realigned Red River intersection at East Cesar Chavez Street will follow Waterline’s completion. But short- term xes aren’t in the works. A 2020 pilot program to block car trac on Rainey during busy hours wasn’t supported locally or found to be eective, and the concept has not returned. A planned extension of Red

Rainey Street

East Sixth Street

West Sixth Street

Red River Street

Several new safety measures have been rolled out along the river.

BEN THOMPSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Two drowning deaths this year prompted an ongoing review of safety in the area. SECURING THE NEIGHBORHOOD

2019

2020

2021

2022

SOURCES: DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE STATE OF DOWNTOWN 2023, PLACER.AICOMMUNITY IMPACT

the lake and the hike and bike trail. The city parks department also rolled out temporary measures, including new signage, lighting and fencing in the area, and public safety patrols have been boosted on weekends. The installation of permanent cameras, the creation of a new local safety plan and further coordination on security with Rainey bars could be coming as well. The city continues to weigh safety and mobility outcomes in the area while construction cranes are set to remain for years to come. But even with local worries and mixed reviews over what the area’s becoming, stake- holders including Staley said they’re hopeful growing pains will end up for the best. “We’re a part of all of that buzz that’s going on,” he said. “I can only imagine that when all those towers are opened up and the streets are open again that it’s just going to be busy nonstop down there. And to me, that’s what makes a city a city.”

River behind Rainey was also shelved after area stakeholders “provided a clear message” that they oppose the project, Corrales said. Balancing safety and growth Residents and ocials are also pay- ing close attention to public safety around Rainey given the area’s rising population and popularity. Two bodies have been found in Lady Bird Lake at the south end of the dis- trict in 2023 following several other drowning deaths there in recent years. In the aftermath, community members rallied for weeks to secure the area and prompt action from city leaders. “We all know that the city is popular for its entertainment districts and for its nightlife and for its recreation, and I’m here to ensure that my friend’s life was not lost in vain and to push for increasing the safety for our commu- nity members near the Rainey Street Historic District,” Sean Bereson, a friend of drowning victim Jason John, told City Council in April. Qadri went on to pass a resolution calling for safety upgrades and plan- ning with special consideration for the Rainey bar district’s proximity to

4 new trailside lighting xtures; more considered

Security cameras under consideration

Weekend public safety patrols

Additional safety planning underway

1,500 feet of new waterfront fencing

6 new safety signs

Coordination with Rainey district bars

For more information, visit communityimpact.com .

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Rashes, bites and stings are just some of the non-life threatening illnesses and injuries we treat quickly and affordably.

SO IT WAS POISON IVY AFTER ALL.

Scan for the nearest location. Open 9am – 9pm, 7 days a week nextlevelurgentcare.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

MARKETPLACE

Virtually flip through any e-edition! Enhance your experience with hyperlinked stories and ads.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM PRINTARCHIVES Snap or visit

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

SALES ★ REPAIR ★ INSTALLATION

$10 OFF OUR BASIC SETUP

• Automatic Gates • Telephone Call Boxes • Video Security • Ornamental Iron

• Steel Railing • Mobile Welding • Vehicle ID Tags • Replacement Remotes

Buy ONE remote, get ONEFREE! One coupon per residence ($50 value)

(512) 296-2671 www.austinestategate.com anthony@austinestategate.com

SAME DAY SERVICE AVAILABLE! Residential & Commercial

Live Music Friday & Saturday!

NOW HIRING SERVERS Come by for details

Dry Creek Dr.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

2222

512.334.9973 azultequila.com 3815 Dry Creek Dr., Austin, TX 78731

Mon - Thur: 11am-10pm, Fri: 11am-10:30pm Sat: 10am-10:30pm, Sun: 10am-10pm

beat the heat with Crux

from June 1st - 7th | new members only

CRUX SOUTH 121 Pickle Road Austin, Texas 78704

6015 Dillard Circle #B Austin, Texas 78752 CRUX CENTRAL

www.CRUXCC.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION • JUNE 2023

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12-13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24

communityimpact.com