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South Central Austin Edition VOLUME 17, ISSUE 8 DEC. 28 FEB. 4, 2025
2024 Senior Living Guide
Costs soar for public spaces across I 35
Amenities could be brought to 11th and 12th street through the cap and stitch initiative, a plan to create public spaces over I 35.
RENDERING COURTESY AUSTIN TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
October on a stretch of I-35 in the heart of Aus- tin—city sta are weighing options to minimize the e ects of roadway construction. After a hike in costs and a newly extended dead- line to fund infrastructure that would support these caps, City Council members are evaluating several nancial options, likely to impact taxpayers.
BY HALEY MCLEOD
35
The familiar red glow of brake lights, a daily sight for many commuters, could fade in the future as o cials consider transformative proposals for the cap and stitch project—a plan to create a number of public green space connections over I-35. With three major interstate expansion projects underway—the most recent breaking ground in late
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Also in this issue
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Impacts: Read about the “reimagined” H E B now open on South Congress Avenue (Page 8)
Environment: Learn about revisions to Austin’s 100-year water resource plan (Page 17)
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SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
More Rebates, More Savings » Enjoy instant savings on energy efficient products at participating local stores » Earn rebates averaging $2,000 on home energy improvements » Get up to $130 in smart thermostat rebates and incentives through January 31
©CMG Mortgage, Inc. dba CMG Home Loans, NMLS# 1820, is an equal housing lender. Registered Mortgage Banker with the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending. To verify our complete list of state licenses, please visit www.cmgfi.com/corporate/licensing and www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. All loans subject to credit approval and only eligible with CMG Home Loans, Brohn’s lender partner. This incentive only valid on select spec homes that are contracted on or after 8/14/24 and close by 12/31/24, while funds last, and finance with CMG Home Loans. Offer is for a limited time only and can be stopped at any time and with no prior notice. Please see a Brohn Homes Sales Consultant for complete details. Flex cash offers vary per home and per community. The flex cash amount is contingent on the price of the home and only valid on participating homes and in participating communities. Speak to a Brohn Homes Sales Consultant for details on participating homes and participating communities. If using flex cash to reduce the price of the home, the reduction cannot bring the home price below base price. *Rate provided 11/26/2024. 10/6 ARM. Stated rate may change or may not be available at time of rate lock. Example: Purchase Price $350,000, 10% Down Payment, $315,000 Loan Amount, 30 year term, initial interest rate 3.750% (5.223%% APR) , with a 1-0 temporary buydown. 12 monthly payments of $1,286, followed by 108 payments of $1,459.00, not including mortgage insurance/taxes/insurance.Post Introductory Period Example: Interest Rate = SOFR + Margin. Payment can adjust every 6 months. Sample Repayments at month 120 with balance of $246,052: 3% Margin, 4.690% SOFR (11/26/24), 7.750% variable rate, $2,020.00 monthly payment. At max interest rate of 8.750% payment is $2,174.00. Payment stated does not include taxes, homeowners insurance, and mortgage insurance which will result in a higher payment. The flex cash amount is contingent on the price of the home and only valid on participating homes and in participating communities. Speak to a Brohn Homes Sales Consultant for details on participating homes and participating communities. The flex cash can only be used in one of the four ways shown in this advertisement, including reduction in purchase price (not being less than base price of home) or applying towards closing costs, or long term rate locks or buying down the interest rate (specific inter- est rate and associated APR fluctuate on a daily basis and change due to individual situations). Offer may not be used with any other discounts, promo- tions or interest-only/buy-down and second lien products. This offer is subject to changes or cancellation at any time at the sole discretion of CMG Home Loans. Additional restrictions/conditions may apply. This is not a commitment to lend and is contingent on qualification per full underwriting guidelines. Exterior home renderings are for representation purposes only and subject to change. Average build time of 3.5 months is an average across all communities and product types as of 2024. The Brohn Group, LLC (DBA Brohn Homes) reserves the right to make changes to pricing, floor plans, specifications, features, materials, dimensions, and incentives without prior notice. Stated dimensions and square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Copyright 2024 Clayton Proper- ties Group, Inc. DBA in Texas as Brohn Homes. 2.75 % Year One & 3.75% Years 2-10 (5.223% APR)* This won’t last long! Close this month to Rake in the Savings before this interest rate is gone. HomeWithBrohn.com | 512-580-8199
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• Multi - specialty health care • 24/7 phone nurses • Easy, online scheduling • On - site x - ray and lab • Online patient portal • Locations near you We’re here when you need us, days, nights, weekends & holidays AustinRegionalClinic.com Happy Holidays and a Joyful New Year
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SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
NORTH AUSTIN
Impacts
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Coming soon
183
Now open
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5 Postino WineCafe The new wine cafe will open in the Bryker Woods neighborhood next year in what was once Burger King, o ering wine, food and more. Postino also opened on South Lamar Boulevard recently. • Opening in 2025 • 1615 W. 35th St., Austin • www.postinowinecafe.com 6 CityVet CityVet is expected to open a new clinic by the end of December and is currently accepting calls to schedule future appointments. Dr. Heidi Moore is the lead veterinarian and partner at this location. • Opening in December • 3711 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.cityvet.com
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3 Sammataro Sports The Sammataro food truck, known for its “old New York-style pizza,” opened its rst brick-and- mortar location, Sammataro Sports, o West 37th Street and Guadalupe Street. The menu includes the company’s renowned pizza, but also items such as hamburgers, wings, mozzarella sticks and meatballs. The concept also features a full cocktail bar and beer on tap. • Opened Dec. 7
W. 35TH ST.
7
In the news
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7 ATX Counseling Celebrating 10 years in business this January, the local practice provides therapy for teenagers and adults. ATX Counseling was founded in 2015 by Kate Carmichael and
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• 519 W. 37th St., Austin • www.sammataro.nyc
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W. 37TH ST.
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has multiple therapists on sta . • 3906 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.atx-counseling.com
North Central
the-go food option. Owned by Eunjin Kim, the restaurant o ers hot and cold meal options including bulgogi, stir fry and bibimbap, all with various protein choices. • Opened Nov. 14 • 10515 N. Mopac Expressway, Unit A-135, Austin • www.purple-rice.com 4 Big Blue Swim School The franchise opened its rst Austin location at The Linc shopping center. Locally owned by duo Prashanth and Menaka Krishnan, Big Blue o ers weekly, year-round 30 to 45 minute swim lessons for children ages 3 months to 12 years old. • Opened Nov. 18 • 6406 N. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 2800, Austin • www.bigblueswimschool.com
Closings
Now open
8 South Congress Books Local bookstore South Congress Books is closing. Owners Sheri Tornatore and Allison Faust said keeping the shop open through 2025 is not “sustainable.” The store moved to its location o Kerbey Lane two years ago after operating o South Congress Avenue for 11 years. The company will o er their collection online under the bookseller name Tornbooks on Abebooks.com and South
1 Black Gold Owned by Mems Davila, pitmaster of Wünder Pig Barbecue food truck, the restaurant opened in the Crestview neighborhood, o ering traditional Texas barbecue and craft cocktails. • Opened Nov. 9 • 1521 W. Anderson Lane, Austin • www.blackgoldatx.com 2 Purple Rice Korean Grab & Go The Shops at Arbor Walk welcomed a new Korean, on-
Congress Books on eBay. • Closed January 2025 • 3703 Kerbey Lane, Austin
Austin Community Foundation makes more... affordable housing economic mobility education
green spaces disaster relief good ...possible through the power of collective giving.
In partnership with the Community Foundation Awareness Initiative Make more possible at austincf.org/more
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Impacts
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
5 Sushi by Scratch This downtown location of sushi chain Sushi by Scratch will only seat a maximum of 10 guests, offering an omakase tasting menu. Omakase is a Japanese dining experience where the chef controls the meal. • Opened Dec. 6 • 603 Brazos St., Austin • www.sushibyscratchrestaurants.com
Now open
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Coming soon
6 Pvolve Pvolve, a functional fitness franchise with locations throughout the United States, will open its first Austin studio downtown in January. The local franchise is owned by Marci Bain and her daughters. Bain said she liked that the workouts were sustainable for her and is excited to bring it to Austin. Pvolve uses resistance- based equipment to target different muscle groups. • Opening Jan. 17 • 312 Congress Ave., Austin • www.pvolve.com
3 Blue Room Reservations-only cocktail bar Blue Room opened in W Austin as part of renovations that brought new dining features to the hotel. Reservations can be made online. • Opened in November • 200 Lavaca St., Austin • www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/auswh-w-austin/dining 4 2nd & Roast Coffee Bar The new coffee bar is now serving locally brews as well as teas and house-made pastries within the recently renovated hotel, W Austin. • Opened in November • 200 Lavaca St., Austin • www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/auswh-w-austin/dining 2 Top Roe and Fox Tail Texas-based chef Paul Qui has opened a new concept downtown under a single roof that includes handroll restaurant Top Roe and a lounge specializing in whiskey highballs, Fox Tail. Top Roe offers seafood such as bluefin tuna, uni, crab, and dry-aged Texas redfish in cylindrical handrolls using nori and sushi rice from California. • Opened Oct. 23 • 120 W. Fifth St., Austin • www.toproe.com
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In the news
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7 Amy’s Ice Creams The Austin-based ice cream shop celebrated 40 years in November. Founded by Amy Simmons in 1984 on Guadalupe Street, the shop became well-known for its ice cream scoop toss and its Mexican Vanilla ice cream. Now, it rotates over 350 ice cream flavors throughout the year. The menu also includes shakes and ices. • Opened November 1984
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Downtown/West Campus
Now open
• 3500 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.amysicecreams.com
1 Cantero Cocktail bar Cantero is now open at downtown hotel the LINE Austin. The bar offers agave-based sotol spirits and cocktails. Cantero is located next to Veracruz All Natural Tacos, and offers a window for guests that opens to the hotel’s pool. • Opened Oct. 15 • 111 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin • www.thelinehotel.com/austin/restaurants-bars/ cantero
Closings
8 The Beer Plant The vegan gastropub closed after 8 years in business. In a social media post, The Beer Plant owners said that rising costs and declining sales have made it hard to sustain the business. • Closed Dec. 22 • 3110 Windsor Road, Austin
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RICKCOFER.COM 602 W. 11 TH ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701 • 512-200-3801
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SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Impacts
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
5 Day Maker Half Day Cafe From the team behind Jack Allen’s Kitchen and Salt Traders Coastal Cooking, Jack Gilmore and Tom Kamm have opened their new breakfast and brunch concept, Day Maker Half Day Cafe. The Day Maker is open daily from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. with a walk-up coffee bar as well as full-service cocktail bar. The menu includes brunch items, like eggs benedict, as well as a Breakfast Burger or Big Belly Pastrami Sandwich. • Opened Nov. 22
MOPAC
Now open
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• 1101 S. MoPac, Austin • www.daymakeratx.com
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MOPAC
In the news
6 La La Land Kind Café A new coffee shop may be opening on South Congress Avenue, according to a permit with the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration. La La Land Kind Café serves coffee and offers paid internships to help youth transition from foster care into adulthood.
3 Blue Moon Dance Co. Owned by Erin Frazier, the dance studio offers weekly private and group dance classes specializing in country, swing and club Latin styles. • Opened Oct. 14 • 3005 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 110A, Austin • www.bluemoondance.co 4 Another Round Austin Locally owned by Nick Barr, the store offers local disc golfers a place to shop and hang out. There is a free outdoor practice area at the shop. Barr said they will also host events for casual and competitive players. • Opened Oct. 26 • 5300 S. MoPac Expressway, Ste. 505, Austin • www.anotherroundaustin.com 2 H-E-B Originally opened in 1957, the grocer’s location on South Congress Avenue and Oltorf Street reopened with a new look and amenities. The original building was demolished in February 2022 to make way for the company’s “reimagined store.” The new 145,000-square-foot space features a True Texas BBQ restaurant, bakery, meat and seafood markets, expanded alcohol selection and more. • Opened Dec. 4 • 2400 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.heb.com
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• 1400 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.lalalandkindcafe.com
Violet Crown Trail The Hill Country Conservancy has completed Phase I of the project which connects 13 miles of public trails that stretch from Zilker Metropolitan Park to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Planning for the Violet
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Crown Trail began in 2006. • www.violetcrowntrail.com
South Central
Now open
Closings
1 DORF The nonprofit art gallery opened its new space inside the Zilker Point development. Founded by Sara Vanderbeek and Eric Manche, the gallery space had been operating out of their family home garage they converted in 2018. DORF secured an up to 10-year lease for just $1 per year, with a city ordinance protecting the space for future arts nonprofits. • Opened Oct. 25 • 218 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.dorfworld.org
7 The Perch ATX The family-owned cafe overlooking Lady Bird Lake permanently closed its doors in early December. The Perch ATX offered coffee, tea and food options such as bagels, sandwiches and avocado toast. • Closed Dec. 1 • 74 Trinity St., Austin • www.theperchatx.com
Happy Holidays!
Every donation helps Austin Habitat for Humanity build homes & hope with Central Texas families. follow us @atxrestore • www.austinhabitat.org/restore
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Impacts
EAST AUSTIN
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Villavaso, Larry Perdido and Chuck Smith. There are now several locations throughout major cities in Texas, including Austin, Houston, Dallas and San Antonio.
Coming soon
• Opening in spring 2025 • 2005 Aldrich St., Austin • www.hopdoddy.com
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5 CorePower Yoga The tness studio will open in the Parkside condo building, o ering a variety of classes including vinyasa and strength training. • Opening 2025
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SIMOND AVE.
• 1701 Simond Ave., Austin • www.corepoweryoga.com
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6 Vaura Pilates The Australia-based pilates studio will open its second studio in the United States next to Chuy’s in Mueller. Vaura o ers 50-minute training classes for beginners and advanced participants. • Opening 2025
2 Little Ola’s Biscuits From Austin chef Michael Fojtasek, the biscuit shop will replace what was once Halcyon in Mueller. Little Ola’s can also be found in the Wells Branch neighborhood at 14735 Bratton Lane, Austin and is the sister restaurant of Olamaie, which was recently awarded a Michelin Star. • Opening early 2025 • 1905 Aldrich St., Austin • www.littleolasbiscuits.com
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LEVANDER LOOP
• 2023 Aldrich St., Austin • www.vaurapilates.com
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In the news
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7 Terrace at Oak Springs Integral Care, the Travis County mental health care provider, celebrated the ve-year anniversary of its rst permanent supportive housing community in east Austin. The facility provides homes and services to 50 individuals who were formerly unhoused, including 25 veterans. • 3000 Oak Springs Drive, Austin • www.integralcare.org/en/3000-oaksprings 8 Emancipet The Austin-based nonpro t veterinary clinic announced the appointment of Cheryl Katon as its new CEO, e ective Nov. 15. Emancipet celebrated 25 years in 2024 of o ering a ordable veterinary care in Texas and Pennsylvania. • 7201 Levander Loop, Bldgs. I & K, Austin • www.emancipet.org 130 TOLL
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East Austin
Coming soon
3 Buddy Bear An expansion of boutique Lilla & Beth, Buddy Bear will o er children’s clothing and gifts, helmed by local Megan Cooper. The retailer will be located next to Lick Honest Ice Creams in Mueller. • Opening early 2025 • 1905 Aldrich St., Austin • www.shopbuddybear.com 4 Hopdoddy Burger Bar A new Hopdoddy Burger Bar will open in the Mueller neighborhood. The locally owned burger chain was founded in 2010 by a group of friends: Larry Foles, Guy
Now open
1 Stargazer Local couple Moya and Colin McIntyre, owners of the east Austin wedding venue Springdale Station, have taken over the shuttered Austin Eastciders Collaboratory with their new concept, Stargazer. The social hangout o ers co ee, beer, cocktails, mocktails and a spread of food vendor options, including Lick Honest Ice Creams, Lucky Lime, and Santo Patio tacos and Dipping Springs Tender Co. food trucks. • Opened Nov. 15 • 979 Springdale Road, Ste. 130, Austin • www.stargazerbar.com 71
IT’S YOUR TIME Find Your Future With ACC
Jeremiah S.
Registration for Spring Classes NOW OPEN ! austincc.edu/spring
9
SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
This holiday season, help keep our roads safe and spirits bright by committing to drive sober, keep your attention on the road, and maintain a cheerful attitude while you travel. The Mobility Authority wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.
DRIVE RIGHT to keep the spirit BRIGHT
Visit www.MobilityAuthority.com to learn more.
NEW YEAR NEW ADDRESS NEW YOU
With move-in ready condos and live/work residences from $300k, you’ll keep all your resolutions.
Prices and incentives subject to change. Exclusive Sales & Marketing by Highlands Realty, a Legacy International Brokerage. Obtain the Property Report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal Agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property. See Sales Executive for details. Broker XL Highlands Realty LLC, License #9001784. 4510 Terry-O Ln · Austin, TX · 512 598 9553 · StationStElmo.com More Socializing with our onsite lounges and The Yard next door More Fitness with our boxing-style gym and yoga & dance studio More Opportunity with a smart South Austin residential investment
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON
Travis County sees rst opioid death decline in 3 years Travis County was awarded a $1.6 million federal grant to launch a jail-based substance use intake program as accidental opioid deaths declined for the rst time in over three years. The overview 318 Opioid deaths decrease
350 300 250 150 100 50 0
255
248
Overdoses remain the leading cause of accidental deaths in Travis County, prompting commissioners to renew a 2022 public health crisis declaration in November. As part of this e ort, the county allocated $100,000 for naloxone—a medication used to treat opi- oid overdoses—and an additional $300,000 for future overdose prevention programs in the upcoming year. Commissioners also directed sta to prioritize investments in opioid abatement strategies, including expanded access to treatment, increased naloxone distribution, and enhanced peer recovery services. The latest federal funding will support medica- tion-assisted treatment, harm reduction approaches and peer recovery support within the Travis County jail system, and follow an individual as they re-enter the Austin names next parks and recreation director Jesús Aguirre will take the helm of Austin’s Parks and Recreation Department in early 2025. The details Aguirre was chosen through a national search that started after the departure of former parks head Kimberly McNeeley in the spring. He was one of three nalists out of scores of applicants. Aguirre said he brings a passion for social justice and inclusivity, and that he’d work to build public trust. He previously led Washington, D.C. and Seattle’s parks departments and Waterloo Greenway in Austin.
2022
2023
2024
NOTE: DATA COLLECTED AND COMPARED FROM JANUARY TO JULY.
SOURCE: TRAVIS COUNTY COMMUNITY IMPACT
climbing
Funds to support homelessness court The Downtown Austin Community Court, or DACC, is Austin’s court that largely handles cases related to homelessness received federal funding to o er more services across the city. The big picture DACC runs a community service program for requirements tied to misdemeanor o enses; a storage service for unhoused clients; and o ers case management and help with housing and health care. Recently, DACC services expanded to cover more of the city and a Mobile Court program was launched to get resources and information to people living across the community. City Council formally accepted $1.45 million in Department of Justice grants last month to build the mobile court’s capacity for the next several years. Representatives involved in the DACC said the new funding will allow the court to serve more Austinites and help them move toward exiting homelessness. community. Overdose deaths are eight times more likely in the rst six months after a person leaves incarcera- tion, according to local authorities. While serving a sentence, a person’s tolerance to substances often decreases. Upon release, if they use the same amount as they did before incarceration, it can lead to an accidental overdose.
challenging
community
Waived Initiation Fees
20% OFF ALL PIF memberships Dec 28th - Jan 10th
“Austin is at a pivotal moment of growth and change, and parks and recreation
are essential to ensuring our communities remain healthy, vibrant and inclusive.” JESÚS AGUIRRE, APPOINTED PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR
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SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Education
BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ
Austin ISD to cut $92 million to offset budget deficit Austin ISD is working on plans to cut $92 million from their current budget deficit. The cuts come despite a tax-rate election that passed in the November election, projected to add $41 million to district funds. The details The plan requires the district to make $92 Austin ISD three-year budget plan Planned total budget cuts 2024-25: $26M Austin ISD plans to make $92 million in budget cuts over the course of three years. The biggest budget cuts will occur next fiscal year, 2025-26.
Austin ISD school to be modernized The Pecan Springs Elementary School community celebrated the start of the East Austin school’s full modernization with a groundbreaking ceremony on Dec. 11. The details The project, part of the 2022 Bond, will demolish the 67-year-old school to build a modernized facility in its place. The new campus will include outdoor learning areas, flexible learning spaces and security upgrades. The total project budget for the modern- ization is expected to be completed in fall 2026. All Pecan Springs Elementary School activities will be in portable buildings at Winn Montessori Elementary School as construction continues.
2025-26: $47M
million in cuts over the next three years, Segura said. The district is looking at various cuts and revenue streams, including but not limited to the following: • Updating bus routes for more efficient transportation • Reducing outside contracts for special education services • Reorganizing various departments to clear vacancies or unneeded positions In a press release, district officials said that cuts to librarians, counselors, nurses and planning
2026-27: $19M Total: $92M
SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
periods are “off the table — at least for this upcom- ing school year.” Education Austin, a labor union for AISD employees, are calling for public input opportuni- ties and to avoid cuts in the classroom. As of press time, the board has not taken a vote on finalizing specific budget cuts.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY HALEY MCLEOD
Airport receives $33M grant for new concourse Austin-Bergstrom International Airport of i- cials announced a $33.27 million funding grant from the Federal Aviation Administration this fall to support the construction of the airport’s Concourse B project. What we know Concourse B is expected to create at least 20 new airline gates to meet mounting airport demands from the Central Texas community. This summer, Austin City Council members approved $72 million for the design of ABIA’s new Concourse B mid ield, and a new tunnel linking it with the existing Barbara Jordan Terminal. Of icials also approved a $1 billion construction contract in September. With the project in the early stages of design, airport leaders aim to begin construction in 2027 and open the new facility as early as 2030.
RED BIRD LN.
S. CONGRESS AVE
"More gates and ights means cheaper fares and shorter wait
times for Austinites... I’m grateful for this $30 million in federal funding to create new gates, good jobs, and even better facilities at Austin-Bergstrom." GREG CASAR, U.S. REP, D AUSTIN
LITTLE TEXAS LN.
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South Congress Ave. roadwork complete Safety is expected to improve along South Congress Avenue and Stassney Lane after upgrades to reduce crashes across all transportation modes, according to the city. Improvements include new turn lanes, raised medians, upgraded pedestrian and cyclist paths, more bus stops, and enhanced tra c signals and pavement markings. Crews began working on the $4.9 million roadway improvements in May 2023.
To date, the Concourse B project has been awarded $47.62 million in federal funding. ABIA of icials said staff will continue to apply for additional federal grants as well as using other airport inancing options including airport reve- nue bonds, cash-on-hand and future revenues. The total expansion program includes addi- tional projects at the airport spread over many years, such as a new baggage handling system, facilities and passenger gates, various air ield upgrades, and the construction of new taxiways and second concourse.
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The Bullock Museum, a division of the Texas State Preservation Board, is funded by Museum members, donors, and patrons, the Texas State History Museum Foundation, and the State of Texas.
Start your preparedness journey at readycentraltexas.org
13
SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Real estate
Median home prices for the Central Austin market increased by 2.65% in November 2024 compared to November 2023. Residential market data
Number of homes sold +57.14% +10%
Central Austin
Median home sales price
November 2023
November 2024
-8.33%
+29.73%
0%
+175%
November
2023
2024
November
2023
2024
$810,000 $610,000 $1,450,000 $950,000 $292,500 $605,044 $613,334 $982,500 $810,000 $370,000 $865,000 $585,000
$1,200,000 $654,645 $1,626,600 $975,000 $454,250 $650,000 $543,000 $1,355,000 $902,500 $435,000 $822,500 $736,000
303 282
78701
New listings
78702
170 221
Closed sales
78703
Homes under contract
153 242
78704
78705 78751 78752 78756
78701
78702
78703
78704
78705
78722
78705
78757
Homes sold by price point
78731
290
78722
360
November 2024
78723
78723
78703
82
+94.74%
0%
+33.33%
+25%
+50%
+50%
$900,000+
78701
78731
78722
78702
38
$700,000-$899,999
78704
78751
290
183
35
51
$500,000-$699,999
71
MOPAC
78752
N
37
$300,000-$499,999
78756
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 512 454 7636 WWW.ABOR.COM
12
<$299,999
78757
78723
78731
78751
78752
78756
78757
BRODIE LANE 4970 Hwy 290 W (512) 366-8260
NORTH LAMAR 914 North Lamar (512) 214-6665
SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 IH-35 Service Road S (512) 280-7400
FAMILY SERIES
CAMP FIRE Theatre For The Very Young Gather ’round an indoor campfire and experience interactive songs and dances in a new work for wee ones!
PUBLIC MEETING
Let’s talk light rail.
Join us in early 2025 at our upcoming Open House events to learn more about Austin Light Rail and how it’s progressing. Connect with ATP staff and provide feedback. Learn more at atptx.org .
BEGINS JANUARY 19 THE JLA STUDIO AT ZACH THEATRE For ages 6-months–5 years — and their big people.
SHOW UP
Para obtener información sobre los servicios de interpretación, comuníquese con nosotros por correo electrónico a sophie.petkus@atptx.org o por teléfono al 512-710-2100.
For translation in other languages, contact us by email (sophie.petkus@atptx.org) or phone at 512-710-2100.
zachtheatre.org/campfire
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Environment
BY BEN THOMPSON
Austin updates long-range water resource, conservation plans
The bottom line
AW is weighing alternative drinking water sources outside the Colorado River. Options like long-term water storage in underground aquifers and new reservoirs are being considered. The utility could also look to desalination, or converting salty groundwater into drinking water. New strategies related to water use and conservation would cost billions of dollars combined. After recent utility rate increases, AW Director Shay Ralls Roalson said the proposals would also require “significant investment” from customers. The plan updates were approved this fall with direction from council member Ryan Alter calling for stricter enforcement of AW’s watering schedule. He said it’s time for the utility to get “more aggressive” on that front.
Revisions to Austin’s 100-year water resource plan and the city’s drought and water conservation plans were approved this fall. The updates came in response to planning over future access to drinking water, sourced from the Highland Lakes that have seen lower capacity in the past few years. AW anticipates longer, worse droughts ahead as Texas grows drier. Those trends would come alongside a surge in local population and demand for water. AW Director Shay Ralls Roalson said the updates focused on the conservation and reuse of the city’s water from along the Colorado River. The utility is planning for alternative sources given reliance on the river and lakes, she said.
Future growth Austin Water is preparing for projected water service need increases.
Higher use Medium use Lower use
500K
400K
300K
200K
100K 0
Historic baseline (2015-20 average)
2040
2080
2120
AUSTIN DALLAS HOUSTON SAN ANTONIO SALE SALE SALE
Get Ready .
Stay Ready .
Weather disasters keep coming, with bigger storms that last longer. As Austin Energy prepares for future power outage emergencies, you can get ready, too. • Know how to report an outage, use the Outage Map and get text alerts. • Make sure your contact info is current at COAUtilities.com or call 512-494-9400 . • Learn how Austin Energy handles outages. AustinEnergy.com/StayReady Know what to do in case of an outage.
SHOP ONLINE
© Austin Energy
17
SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Community Senior Living Communities
response system, handicap accessibility, alarms on exterior doors, recreation and activity rooms, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, weekly events and activities
Types of communities
Austin
Independent-living communities cater to older adults with limited care needs. Most include amenities, such as fitness programs, housekeeping and communal meals. Assisted-living communities specialize in providing care and supervision. These facilities frequently offer a full range of amenities as well as limited medical assistance. Memory care facilities specialize in providing care to seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive issues. Staff members are trained to help residents manage these diseases. Hospice care is intended to relieve symptoms and suffering associated with a terminal illness in those who have been given six months or less to live. The patient must choose to forgo further curative treatment. Nursing home/skilled nursing facilities provide care to those with illnesses or mental conditions requiring full- time monitoring and medical care.
Anthology of The Arboretum Type: assisted living, memory care Open: coming February 2025 Cost: $5,200-$9,200+ per month Total units: 130 Amenities: transportation available, home maintenance services provided, beauty and barbershops on site
• 5715 Mesa Drive, Austin • www.brookedale.com
The Collinfield House Type: assisted living, hospice care Cost: $5,500-$15,000 per month Total units: range from five to eight units Amenities: 24-hour inclusive care, feeding, bed management, showering, in-room bathrooms
• 10001 Stonelake Blvd., Austin • www.anthologyseniorliving.com
• 9205 Collinfield Drive, Austin • www.assistedlivinginaustin.com
Brookdale Northwest Hills Type: assisted living, memory care Opened: mid-2000s Cost: $4,820-$6,040+ per month Total units: 120 room capacity for assisted living, 28 room capacity for memory care Amenities: hill country views, all-day restaurant-style dining, select therapy on-site, library, pet friendly, outdoor garden area, enclosed courtyard, emergency
The Ladybird Type: independent living Opened: May 2022 Cost: $593-$1,750 per month, tax credit affordable and market-rate costs Total units : 279 Amenities: business center, fitness center, hair salon,
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18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Silverleaf Eldercare at the Arboretum Type: assisted living, memory care, hospice care Opened: 2018 Cost: $6,500-$9,500 per month Total units: 12 beds Amenities: each home utilizes CarePredict, an AI- powered digital health platform designed for senior care
• 5000 Shoalwood Ave., Austin • www.southernhospitalityhome.net
food pantry, theater, residential and social services program, washer/dryer hookups • 1320 Art Dilly Drive, Austin • www.dmaladybird.com
The Village at The Triangle Type: independent living, assisted living, memory care, hospice care
Overture Mueller Type: assisted living Opened: 2017 Cost: $2,100-$2,599 per month Total units : 201
Opened: September 2018 Cost: $5,550+ per month Total units: 208
• 9004 Wildridge Drive, Austin • www.silverleafeldercare.com
Amenities: 24-hour concierge, daily check-in program, restaurant- and casual-style dining, full-service salon • 4517 Triangle Ave., Austin • www.villageatthetriangle.com Westminister Type: independent living, assisted living, memory care, hospice care, nursing home/skilled nursed Opened: 1967 Cost: $3,900+ per month for single occupancy independent living Total units: 368 independent living apartments, 36 assisted apartments, 38 memory care units, 85 skilled nursing units Amenities: five star-rated community • 4100 Jackson Ave., Austin • www.westministeraustintx.org This list is not comprehensive.
SoCo Village Type: assisted living, memory care
Amenities: heated pool and hot tub, activities and community events, fitness center, continental breakfast, community garden, barbecue area, game area, movie theater, club room, parking included
Opened: October 2020 Cost: $4,441+ per month Total units: 99
• 4818 Berkman Drive, Austin • www.overturemueller.com
Amenities: gated community, restaurant-style dining, baby grand piano, interior courtyard, private dining room, living rooms, salon, activity room, art room • 3700 Payload Pass, Austin • www.socovillage.com
Parsons House Austin Type: independent living, assisted living Opening: facility opened in 1987, Parsons took over management in 2004 Cost: $2,265+ per month for assisted living, $1,800+ for independent living Total units: 172 Amenities: assisted and independent living programs are intertwined
Southern Hospitality Home Type: assisted living
Cost: based on level of care for private rooms per month: $7,850-$9,850; based on level of care for shared room per month: $6,350-$8,350 Total units: 10 rooms with capacity of up to 15 residents Amenities: in-home care
• 1130 Camino La Costa, Austin • www.parsonshouseaustin.com
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1009 W 6TH ST, #120 AUSTIN, TX 78703 | 512.478.4440
19
SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Costs soar for public spaces across I-35 From the cover
What’s new
What’s happening?
I-35 caps and stitches A cap refers to a platform built over I-35 for public parks, while a stitch connects streets, sidewalks and bike lanes over the highway.
Out of all the project options, city staff recommended decreasing the caps, reducing the total area from 26.26 acres to 12.6 acres— still twice the size of the only other highway land bridge in Texas, located in Dallas. The new strategy reduces most cap sizes by 25% and brings the total cost to just over $500 million. This would also reduce the initial funding commitment required by TxDOT to $109 million. “If we’re going to go through the trouble of doing this, my sense would be to go ahead and do full caps, and do it right,” council member Chito Vela said. Council member Vanessa Fuentes hopes the city will focus on keeping full-scale downtown caps, noting the project was meant to be a “silver lining” for residents impacted by the highway expansion.
As the I-35 expansion project in Central Austin rolls forward, the city has worked to address the highway’s historical division of the east and west sides of the city by incorporating caps and stitches, or land bridges, for connectivity. Austin officials were forced to reconsider original plans after a Nov. 19 update indicated costs had ballooned to $1.4 billion, up 67% from 2023 projections. Initially, plans called for more than two dozen acres of amenity decks atop the wider, sunken I-35 between Lady Bird Lake and Airport Boulevard. The vision—shaped by resident input—calls to reconnect communities divided by the highway with new parks, art and programming on the caps. After conducting community outreach over the summer, the transportation and public works department unveiled plans for the full build-out Sept. 28, which included a slew of amenities. However, as inflation has swelled the construction costs, staff recommended scaling back. Austin City Council members caught a break this month before being forced to make the weighty decision surrounding funding of the longstanding proposal of I-35 land bridges, as the Texas Department of Transportation extended the city’s deadline to commit the millions of dollars needed for the project until March. Originally outlined for the year’s end, the city would need to front $284 million to TxDOT to secure the construction of structural components for all eight proposed caps and stitches. The city’s plans are not tied to proposed caps around The University of Texas at Austin campus, which are being developed separately and are funded by the institution. These include roughly 17 acres over the interstate between 15th Street and Dean Keeton Street.
Airport Blvd.-Red Line cap Acres: 4.24 | Cost: $226M
41st St.-Red Line cap Acres: 4.76 Cost: $290M
38th-41st St. cap Acres: 5.21 Cost: $261M
35
The University of Texas cap
11th-12th St. cap Acres: 2.17 Cost: $123M
While officials have some funding secured, they are still weighing different build options, all of which still need up to a billion in funding.
35
4th-7th St. cap Acres: 3.28 Cost: $166M
Remaining funding needed
Cesar Chavez-4th St. cap Acres: 5.37 | Cost: $272M
Full build: $1.25B
Least expensive build option: $255M
Cesar Chavez St. stitch Acres: .27 | Cost: $12M
Holly St. stitch Acres: 0.96 Cost: $26M
Funding secured
SIB Loan: $41M Grant: $105.2M
N
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN, COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY HALEY MCLEOD
The breakdown
Looking ahead
Regardless of which configuration receives approval, the city will likely need to bring forward a bond election in 2026, Deputy Chief Financial Officer Kim Olivares told council members. The next phase of financing must be committed for constructing the first deck covering the interstate from Cesar Chavez to Fourth Street. For the average Austin homeowner, each $100 million in bonds adds $13.78 annually to their property tax bill. According to city documents, a proposed $600 million bond program in 2026 would raise the annual tax bill by roughly $82.71. The newest proposed scenario presented to council is projected to need $1 billion in bonds and cost homeowners $137.86 per year. Road construction along the entire I-35 corridor in Austin is not expected to be completed until 2032, but TxDOT officials say commuters may see the upper decks torn down as early as 2027. City staff will continue to look for funding opportunities, as there are still millions of dollars needed for remaining phases of the project that will need to be secured by 2032. “We are looking at federal grants, but we are also looking at things like philanthropic strategy—that’s how the Dallas cap program got a lot of its funding,” said Brianna Frey, an urban planner overseeing the Austin project.
Full-size cap City staff outlined options to reduce costs in a Dec. 5 memo. Phase one of funding needs to be committed by March 2025. Reduced cap size by 25%
Scenario
1
2
3
4
5
6
Full build
Cesar Chavez -4th St.
Cesar Chavez -4th St.
Number of caps
Cesar Chavez -4th St.
Cesar Chavez -4th St.
Cesar Chavez -4th St.
All 8 caps & stitches
Cesar Chavez -4th St.
4th-7th St.
4th-7th St.
4th-7th St.
4th-7th St.
11th-12th St.
11th-12th St. 11th-12th St. 11th-12th St.
11th-12th St.
11th-12th St.
38th.-41st St. 38th- 41st St.
38th-41st St. 41st St. -Red Line
38th-41st St.
Phase 1 cost Total cost of project
$55M $86M $109M $124M $133M $138M $203M
$401M $569M $569M $666M $772M $1.1B $1.4B
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Some context
interstate in 50 years. Though the project has received criticism for years, officials broke ground on the project running between Hwy. 71 to the south and US 290 to the north Oct. 30. The project connects with two ongoing local corridor improvement projects focused on the northern and southern sections of I-35 in Austin. The entire I-35 face-lift is expected to widen the corridor from 11-18 lanes up to 17-22 lanes.
Over the next decade, TxDOT will be expanding the 8-mile stretch of I-35 that runs through the center of the city, which prompted local authorities’ initial proposal of the cap and stitch initiative. TxDOT’s $4.5 billion Capital Express Central project will remove I-35’s raised lanes, sink the roadway, add new lanes, and improve east-west highway crossings for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists—representing the agency’s first significant infrastructure improvements made to the area’s
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21
SOUTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
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