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North Central Austin Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 1 MAY 2 JUNE 3, 2025
Swim season shrinks As drought deepens, local swimming holes feel e ects
INSIDE
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Also in this issue
Lost Creek, a popular swimming spot just west of Austin, draws locals looking to cool o as summer temperatures approach. (Haley McLeod/Community Impact)
See why tax payers could see higher bills Government
Page 13
30 AISD schools failed in 2023 TEA scores—here’s why Education Page 19
Jonathan Mason, DO Sports Medicine Specialist, Musculoskeletal Institute
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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 top priority is to ensure our water is safe and satisfying 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 Treated 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 2024 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 2024 AUSTINWATER.ORG/WATERQUALITY Para una versión en Español llame al 512-972-0155.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
About Community Impact
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Brittany Anderson Jacquelyn Burrer Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Jamie Moore Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Abigail Hines Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Scha er
Krista Box General Manager kbox@ communityimpact.com
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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Impacts
North Central Austin
NORTH AUSTIN
BY ELLE BENT, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & HALEY MCLEOD
• Relocating in summer • 11055 N. I-35, Austin • www.ntrocks.com
Coming soon
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N. I 35 FRONTAGE RD.
In the News
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5 Thundercloud Subs Austin grown Thundercloud Subs celebrated its 50th anniversary in March. The business was founded in 1975 by Andy Cotton and John Meddaugh, with its rst location on Lavaca Street. • Locations vary • www.thundercloud.com 6 Chili’s Chili’s celebrated its 50th anniversary in March. The franchise was founded in Dallas in March 1975 and has now expanded to over 1,600 locations in 28 counties.
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2 Citizens A new all-day, Australian-style cafe will o er breakfast, lunch and dinner. The new location on Burnet Road marks the brand’s rst location in Austin. Co-owner Justin Giu rida said it’s a spot where guests can start their day with avocado toast and end it with an espresso martini. • Opening this spring • 4818 Burnet Road, Austin • www.citizensofbreakfast.com
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• Locations vary • www.chilis.com
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7 Foreign & Domestic The farm-to-table restaurant is celebrating 15 years in the North Loop area this spring. Founded in 2010, the restaurant focuses on locally sourced and sustainable food. The menu rotates seasonally and features dishes crafted from local, farm-fresh produce. The wine list includes selection from organic and small family-run vineyards. • 306 E. 53rd St., Austin • www.fndaustin.com
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N TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
3 Harper Sage After ve years of online sales, Harper Sage opened its agship brick-and-mortar women’s clothing store. • Opened in March • 4803 Burnet Road, Austin • www.harpersage.com
Closings
8 Thom’s Market After 18 years, the local grocer will surrender its three locations this month. Owner Bill Thomas is retiring and a new retailer will be taking over the storefronts. • Closed April 20 • 1418 Barton Springs Road, Austin; 160 E. Riverside Drive, Austin; 5901 Burnet Road, Austin
Now Open
Relocations
1 Kyoko Co ee Patrick Lyle’s Kyoko Co ee is a Japanese-inspired micro co ee shop based out of a converted retro Honda minivan parked near the Highland Collective. • Opened in January • 6401 Airport Blvd., Austin • www.kyokocoffee.com
4 Nature’s Treasures Metaphysical store and rock shop Nature’s Treasures has started its relocation process, set for sometime this summer. For now, the business is still operating out of its original location at 4103 N. I-35, Austin.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Impacts
Downtown/West Campus
BY ELLE BENT, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & HALEY MCLEOD
Coming soon
Now open
6 Swedish Hill The Austin cafe, deli and bakery announced its fourth location will open downtown this fall. The business has a location in West Lake Hills, a smaller cafe on West Sixth Street and is working on other developments. • Opening this fall • 415 Colorado St., Austin • www.swedishhillaustin.com 7 Zeds Real Fruit Ice Cream The New Zealand-style ice cream shop will serve its blend of soft-serve vanilla ice cream mixed with fresh fruit. Zeds was originally founded in Oregon by The University of Texas at Austin graduates Matt Potter and Caleb Schmidt. • Opening in May • 2727 Exposition Blvd., Ste. 128, Austin • www.zedsicecream.com
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3 Golden Boy The lunch spot landed at the Fareground Austin food hall in March, serving a rotation of seasonal dishes for midday eats. Led by James Beard and Michelin-trained chef Nick Middleton, the menu features lunches including bao, bowls and salads. • Opened in March
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DRISKILL ST.
Relocations
• 111 Congress Ave., Austin • Instagram: goldenboyfood
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8 Feels So Good The retailer and screen printing shop closed its Alpine location after five years due to an increase in rent, according to a social media post from the business. Feels So Good will now have a separate retail location from the production facility, where custom orders can be picked up at 9204 Brown Lane, Austin.
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4 Bungalow The bar reopened this spring about three years after it closed due to a high-rise development, according to a social media post. Bungalow returned to Rainey Street, down the street from its old location at the former Icenhauers spot. • Opened March 23 • 83 Rainey St., Austin • www.bungalowaustin.com 5 JABS Burgers and Fries The burger joint, formerly known as Peace, Love and Burgers, is now open at the Fareground Austin off
Now open
• 609 E. 7th St., Austin • www.fsgprints.com
1 Yoyo’s Hotdog The Houston-based hot dog restaurant is now open in the Dobie Food Court at The University of Texas at Austin. • Opened March 2 • 2021 Guadalupe St., Ste. 100, Austin • Instagram: yoyoshotdogshtx 2 Aburi Oshi Sushi The flame-seared sushi restaurant is now open at the
In the news
9 Wheatsville Food Co-op Wheatsville Food Co-op is preparing to shutter its location on Guadalupe Street sometime in late 2026. The news comes as company leaders announce a $4 million community-funded campaign venture to support future co-op grocery store locations in North Austin, an “evolution of Austin’s grocery economy,” a news release from the company states. • 3101 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.wheatsville.coop
Fareground Austin. • Opened in March
Congress Avenue. • Opened in March • 111 Congress Ave., Austin • Instagram: @eatjabs
• 111 Congress Ave., Austin • www.aburioshisushi.com
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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Impacts
South Central Austin
BY DACIA GARCIA, SARAH HERNANDEZ & HALEY MCLEOD
Wanderlust Wine Co. The cafe opened its rst location on Shirley Avenue in North Austin in January and serves only matcha drinks. • Opened Feb. 15 • 1601 Barton Springs Road, Austin • Instagram: lovelampmatcha
MOPAC
Now open
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Coming soon
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6 Lavender & Lemonade Lavender & Lemonade, from owner Aisha Devrouax, will be a “fusion space” o ering made-to-order lemonade and limeade drinks with fresh fruit, co ees and teas, grab-and-go food items and a stem bar where guests can make personalized ower bouquets. • Opening in late summer • 2209 S. First St., Ste. 105, Austin • www.lavenlem.com
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3 Dish Society The local farm-to-table all-day cafe opened in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood following the success of its rst Austin location in the Mueller neighborhood in 2023. Owned by Aaron Lyons, Dish Society serves brunch, lunch and dinner using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from local farmers, producers and ranchers. • Opened March 25 • 1600 S. First St., Ste. 110, Austin • www.dishsociety.com
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MENCHACA RD.
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Relocations
WOODBURY DR.
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7 Monkey See, Monkey Do! After 20 years on South Congress Avenue, toy shop Monkey See, Monkey Do! will relocate to Menchaca Road near South Lamar Boulevard, a move owner Brandon Hodge said is “voluntary and celebratory.” The novelty shop features a selection of toys, knick-knacks, games, apparel and more. Hodge also owns Big Top Candy Shop on South Congress, which is not relocating. • Relocating May 2 • 2810 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.instagram.com/msmdsoco
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N TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
• Opened March 8 • 1701 South Lamar Blvd., Austin • Instagram: dulcefridaatx
Nowopen
1 Banyan & Bamboo Day Spa & Med Spa The spa o ers a range of beauty treatments, including facials and massage therapy. Owner Jennifer Rushing bought the existing day spa, Austin Urban Retreat, last year and has rebranded and relaunched it. • Opened April 2 • 3005 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. D112, Austin • www.banyanandbamboo.com 2 Dulce Frida The gelato trailer from owner Francisco Rosales opened its rst brick-and-mortar location, serving Italian ice, lemonade, breakfast tacos and pancakes.
4 Mage’s Sanctum Local gaming and hobby store Mage’s Sanctum has reopened in a new location after closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The store carries everything from board games to card games and hosts events such as regularly scheduled Magic The Gathering tournaments. • Opened March 1 • 3924 Woodbury Drive, Ste. A, Austin • www.magessanctum.com 5 Love Lamp Matcha The matcha shop opened its second location above
In the news
SIMS Foundation The Austin nonpro t organization will celebrate its 30th anniversary in May. Founded in 1995 in memory of Austin musician Sims Ellison, the SIMS Foundation provides mental health and substance use recovery services and support for musicians, music industry professionals and their families. • www.simsfoundation.org
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
290
Impacts
East Austin
BY ELLE BENT, SARAH HERNANDEZ & HALEY MCLEOD
EAST AUSTIN
Relocations
E. 46TH ST.
7
Now open
5 Sunshine Vinyl The local record store from Luca Kisielius is relocating to a new shared space with Pershing East Coffee and The Concord Botanical Cafe & Dispensary. Sunshine Vinyl opened in June at 1601 E. Fifth St., Austin, and offers new and used vinyl across a variety of genres. The business will celebrate with a grand reopening in May. • Relocating May 3
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• 2501 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.sunshinevinyl.co
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In the news
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183 3 Parish Barbecue The barbecue food truck from pitmaster Holden Fulco opened in the backyard of Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches. Fulco is a former manager of Interstellar BBQ, who spent seven years at Franklin Barbecue and helped open Pinkerton’s Barbecue in downtown San Antonio. Pitmaster Jake Haygood is also on the team, with experience from Terry Black’s BBQ and Interstellar BBQ. • Opened March 28
6 HOPE Outdoor Gallery After closing six years ago near 24 Diner off North Lamar Boulevard, the graffiti art park will reopen in a 18-acre location near the Austin airport. The site will include a cultural events center, art park, technology gallery, cafe, art and more. • Near intersection of Dalton Lane and Giraffe Pen Road • www.hopecampaign.org/hope-outdoor-gallery
HERGOTZ LN.
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• 3220 Manor Road, Austin • www.parishbarbecue.com
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Closings
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N TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
7 U-Haul The retail, moving and storage center closed after 20 years in business due to the I-35 expansion project, according to a news release. Other U-Haul locations offering similar services are located at 4021 N. I-35, Austin, or 5412 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin. • Closed March 31 • 1032 E. 46th St., Austin • www.uhaul.com 8 Cafe Corazon ATX The cafe, known for its specialty coffees and cookies, permanently closed in April, citing multiple reasons including rising costs. Cafe Corazon opened in January 2024. • Closed April 12 • 1701 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Ste. 103, Austin • https://cafe-corazon.square.site 973 130 TOLL
Vinyl. The business offers beverages that can be infused with CBD, caffeine, THC and more, as well as products containing CBD or THC. The cafe can also be found off East Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. • Opening May 3
Coming soon
1 The Back Nine Golf Local golfers will soon get to play some of the world’s best golf courses virtually at The Back Nine’s first Austin location. The local franchise is owned by Vincent Cipriano, who said he wanted to create a “third space” for people passionate about golf. • Opening in May • 2023 Airport Blvd., Austin • www.thebackninegolf.com/eastaustintx 2 The Concord Botanical Cafe & Dispensary A second location of The Concord is opening this May, in a shared space with Pershing East Coffee and Sunshine 71
• 2501 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.ridetheconcord.com
4 Breeze Oral Care A new dental office from Breeze will open in East Austin, offering only hygienic care. Other offices are located off South Lamar Boulevard and North Lamar Boulevard. • Opening in summer • 1300 E. Fifth St., Ste. C, Austin • www.breezeoralcare.com
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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON
Austin now requires AC for all housing All Austin residents are now required to have access to air conditioning in their homes or apartments. The big picture There is currently no statewide standard for housing in Texas to o er residential cooling. While some cities have adopted their own air conditioning rules, the city of Austin didn’t yet review of dozens of cases handled from 2021-22 is a rst in the city, and nationwide, meant to improve police work including interactions with victims. Similar processes and public reporting will now take place annually. “We hope our proactive approach and ongoing e orts to improve the experience and outcome for sexual assault survivors will serve as an example to other units and agencies throughout the nation,” Police Chief Lisa Davis wrote in March. The approach A recent audit of APD’s sexual assault responses called for the case analyses, alongside dozens of other updates. City o cials boosted funding for APD responses and victim services in 2023 including $100,000 for the rst case review. EVAWI credited aspects of APD’s investigations based on “unprecedented” access to case les, and proposed revisions to training, documentation, data collection and communications. Hanna Senko—a plainti the city settled with Austin sex crime reforms ongoing after in-depth case review An inaugural review of Austin sex crimes cases is leading to several improvements to police investigations. What happened The analysis conducted by nonpro t End Violence Against Women International followed extensive scrutiny of APD’s mishandling of sex crimes and a nearly $900,000 legal settlement with survivors. Austin Police Department leaders said the
Public defenders seeking higher pay Members of the Travis County Public Defender’s O ce told county commission- ers that their initial Counsel at First Appear- ance, or CAFA, investment isn’t enough as sta pay is lower than similar positions in Central Texas and statewide. What happened CAFA—representation post-arrest and during bail-setting regardless of ability to pay—has moved through stops and starts in recent years. County o cials earmarked $15.5 million to expand the program this scal year, funding dozens of new positions. Legal sta packed a late March commis- sioners court meeting to voice concerns over aspects of CAFA’s recent implementation, with public defense advocates said pay dynamics devalue their work. Geo rey Burkhart, county executive for Community Legal Services, said his o ce could use funding from un lled positions to raise salaries and address pay disparities.
Road to reform The Austin Police Department’s work with sex crimes cases has been under city and third-party scrutiny for years.
2019
Jan. 2019: Audit nds Austin police improperly closed rape cases, City Council calls for third-party police review
2020
Jan. 2024: City o cials publicly apologize for mishandling cases Sept. 2023: Council funds case review, Sex Crimes Unit audit Early 2023: Collective Sex Crimes Response Model project launches to oversee reforms Nov. 2022: Third-party evaluation recommends more than 100 changes for sex crime investigations Jan. 2022: Council approves $875,000 settlement with sexual assault survivors with improvement plan
2022
2023
2024
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
who’s now helping to oversee local reforms—noted the signi cance of the changes for victims. “For any sexual assault survivor, going through the process of reporting can be di cult regardless of how much implementation that we put in place for improvement,” she said. “It’s things like this case review that’s going to ensure that that can occur for every survivor that comes forward, and continue to improve year over year.”
“The future of indigent defense in Travis County is kneecapped when we cannot retain and develop great attorneys.” AMALIA BECKNER, TRAVIS COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER
have one in place. Amid record heat in summer 2023, o cials asked to lay out new rules ensuring all Austinites can keep their homes cooled to comfortable and safe levels. Last year, local hospitals handles nearly 900 emergency room visits for heat-related illness and a total of 15 people dies due to heat over the course of the summer, according to Austin Public Health. The details Austin property owners must provide equip- ment to keep indoor temperatures at least 15 degrees cooler than outside, and below 85 degrees
at all times, in every habitable room of existing housing units. They’ll also be required to keep air conditioning systems and related equipment in working condition. City sta will work with property owners on meeting the new requirement, which will go into e ect this summer. Sta also said the change will not signi cantly a ect housing a ordability or development costs in the city. Residents who believe a building is out of com- pliance can le complaints through Austin 3-1-1 for investigation by the Development Services Department’s Code Compliance team.
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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY BEN THOMPSON
The city of Austin could face budget deficits of tens of millions of dollars over the next five years, while residents are likely to face rising taxes and other charges. New information shared ahead of the summer budgeting process projects annual budget gaps growing to $80 million by fiscal year 2029-30. A deficit of $6 million in the current fiscal year is already anticipated thanks to lower-than- expected sales and alcoholic beverage tax collections. The forecast was based on a slowdown in local job creation and new development, the end of federal stimulus money, and other factors like inflation and signs of an economic slowdown, according to city finance staff. Another near-term impact is a likely dip in total property values across Austin, based on preliminary reporting from the Travis Central Appraisal District. A record number of appraisals are also being protested and property value growth is slowing, city staff said, leading to tens of billions of dollars less in taxable value for FY 2025-26 compared to this year. City Council members responded to the “sobering” and “concerning” financial report during an April 8 review by noting the challenges they’ll face in maintaining city services. On top of local trends, they also pointed out Austin’s mounting losses of federal funding and the need to support local initiatives amid those cuts. Austin expecting fund gaps; costs could rise
The approach
City costs
The typical Austin homeowner is projected to pay roughly 25% more in city property taxes, fees and utility charges by 2030.
With sales tax revenue already lower than expected, and a potential drop-off ahead if consumer spending falls off, Budget Office Director Kerri Lang said “tough decisions” could lie ahead. City Manager T.C. Broadnax said financial staff are continuing to refine their projections and work to reallocate funding in line with City Council and community goals. “Given the uncertainty in the global and national economy and the effect of property tax caps, we knew we’d be facing headwinds this year. We’ve prepared for them and will adjust as necessary,” he said in a statement. His budget will be presented in July before review and council consideration in August.
Property taxes
Utility charges, city fees
$8K
$6K
$4K
$2K
$0
NOTE: ESTIMATES BASED ON ANNUAL MEDIAN HOME VALUES AND TYPICAL UTILITY USE.
General fund deficits Austin could face gaps of tens of millions of dollars in the city budget for public safety, parks, libraries and housing.
Looking ahead
State law blocks cities from raising more than 3.5% in additional property taxes year-over-year, aside from any newly-added value. However, tax rates generating revenue beyond that cap can pass with voter approval. Austin hasn’t yet needed a tax rate election, or TRE, but city officials and staff have been pointing to the likelihood of one on the horizon—and continuing every four years. City Council plans to pass a formal TRE policy in May before setting any potential election dates.
Revenue
Spending
2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30
$0 / $1.4B $1.5B $1.6B $1.7B $1.8B
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Swim season shrinks From the cover
The overview
BULL CREEK
Greenbelt swimming holes A Lost Creek Greenbelt B Sculpture Falls C Twin Falls D Gus Fruh at Barton Creek E The Flats at Barton Creek F Campbell’s Hole Barton Creek G Bull Creek Greenbelt Upper
As spring gives way to summer, warmer temperatures send many Austinites in search of a place to cool o —often near water. Popular haunts like the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Barton Springs Pool routinely see a rise in visitors beginning in April that ramp up over the summer, with over 90,000 individuals taking a dip in Barton Springs last May, according to Austin’s Park and Recreation department. A frequent visitor of local parks and greenbelts, local Brian Leitner said these natural swimming spots are a “big piece” of Austin. “The water is what brings me here,” Leitner said. “Austin’s my favorite city because it’s hot, it’s got culture, and I can jump in the water pretty much six to eight months out of the year.” However, without much rainfall this year adding to persistent drought conditions in the area, the rst question for many will be “Is there any water?” For now, some of Austin’s natural swim areas are owing, while others still need steady rainfall to see measurable water volume. Water levels in local greenbelts are variable and dependent on rainfall, while spring-fed natural swimming areas remain at a consistent temperature and water level, according to the city’s parks and recreation department. Forecasts from the Lower Colorado River Authority, or LCRA—which oversees access to the Colorado River water supply for Austin—indicate the Hill Country will see slightly below average rainfall over the spring and summer months. LCRA chief meteorologist Bob Rose said the summer pattern currently shows only a few opportunities for rain, with “nothing sustained or heavy.”
I
183
G
H The Bull Creek Preserve I St. Edward’s Greenbelt
H
5
Cubic feet per second gives an indication of stream conditions like water levels.
0
0
0
West Lake Hills
360
BARTON CREEK
SHOAL CREEK
MOPAC
1
0
3
Barton Creek
0
A
0
WALLER CREEK
B
F
Austin
E
C
D
0
1
0
0
290
0
N
DATA AS OF APRIL 21. SOURCE: LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY COMMUNITY IMPACT
From the experts
Austin-area annual rainfall Central Texas has faced drought conditions since 2019, with declining rainfall over the past decade contributing to persisting arid conditions.
Should the dry spell continue, the current arid conditions could rival the “drought of record,” which was the area’s worst drought in history from 2008-2015. The most recent ve years of drought conditions have played a role in diminished water levels at some of Austin’s favorite greenbelts. Recent e orts to modernize the city’s water use and management plan, known as Water Forward, indicate that Austin is projected to see longer, worse droughts in the decades ahead as Texas grows drier overall.
This year’s current storm track is expected to be primarily across Oklahoma and North Texas, allowing fewer storms to make it south into Central Texas, Rose said. However, he noted other tropical storms and moisture could bring rain into the area. Central Texas has remained under drought conditions since 2019, which was the last time the area’s two water supply reservoirs, known as the Highland Lakes system, were full. Both lakes Buchanan and Travis, which make up the High- land Lakes system, are currently under halfway full, according to LCRA data.
20 30 40 50 60
59.96 inches
28.25 inches
0 10
SOURCE: NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY HALEY MCLEOD
A closer look
Related highlights
located in the higher-elevation areas where the region’s feeder rivers and streams begin, mean- ing these ponds must ll up before any runo reaches the Highland Lakes system, Hamilton said. Under state law, each of these stock tanks is allowed without a permit up to 200 acre-feet, which equates to a capacity of roughly 65 million gallons of water. “They’re literally strangling us. They’re cutting o our water supply,” Hamilton said.
Shannon Hamilton, the executive director for the Central Texas Water Coalition, said that rain is not the only contributing factor to lowering water levels. “What’s changed signi cantly is how much water is owing into our lakes,” Hamilton said. She said that in Texas, property owners are legally allowed to dig out ponds or stock tanks on their property, typically to be used for agricul- tural or shing purposes. Central Texas has around 44,000 small ponds
These trends come alongside a surge in demand, with Austin Water’s customer base estimated to triple over the next 100 years. Additionally, the area’s growing data center industry adds exponential demand on local water supply, with one data center consuming millions of gallons of water a day to cool o hundreds of on-site computers. Managing water resources has become an increased priority for local o cials and conservationists alike—not only for municipal needs, but for sustaining the local environment, including swimming spots. In November, Austin City Council members approved a measure to amend the Water Forward plan, focusing on conservation. Municipal demand historically has taken up around half of the total water consumption, according to LCRA data, and with a hotter, drier future forecasted, the strain on natural water resources is expected to increase.
The Flats at the Barton Creek Greenbelt owing with water after rain. (Courtesy Austin Parks and Recreation)
Since 2020, the Barton Creek Greenbelt has seen little to no stream ow. (Haley McLeod/Community Impact)
Clean up after pets and dispose of waste properly Know before you go
Plan a visit
Always enter unknown or shallow water feet rst Avoid algae in stagnant water. Residents should treat all algae as potentially harmful
As deepening drought threatens the length of the area’s creekside swimming season, locals may look to places like Barton Springs Pool. The spring-fed watering hole measures
For those looking to cool o in the greenbelt swimming holes but unsure about water levels, the LCRA provides real-time data for several creeks in the Austin area. Find local water levels by looking at current
Pack it in, pack it out
3 acres and remains at an average temperature of 68-70 degrees.
stream ow and recent rainfall on https://hydromet.lcra.org/coa .
Watch for strong currents, obstacles, rocks and debris
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN, AMERICAN RED CROSS COMMUNITY IMPACT
15
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Water WATER SAVIN
WaterWise Landscape Rebate 6 Austin Water customers who replace a minimum of 200 sq feet of healthy turf grass with native plant beds may be eligible for $100 per 100 square feet, up to $3,000 in rebates. Landscape Survival Tools Rebates 6 By using a combination of mulch, compost and core aeration of your lawn, you will be prepared for the damage that an Austin summer can do to your yard. These techniques will ensure that water stays on your yard, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation.
y Compost: 2 cubic yards or 54 cubic feet Rebate $50 y Mulch: 2 cubic yards or 54 cubic feet Rebate $40 y Core aeration service for entire front and/or back lawn area (equipment rental is acceptable) Rebate $30 y Maximize your rebate by doing all three $120
austinwater.org
WaterWise Rainscape Rebate 6 The Rainscape Rebate Program helps residents install landscape features (berms, terraces, swales, rain gardens, porous pavement, etc.) to keep and beneficially use rainwater on the property. The rebate pays $0.50 for every square foot (100 sq. ft. minimum) converted, up to $1,500 per property. Rainwater Harvesting Rebate 6 Rebates of $0.50 per gallon capacity for non-pressurized systems or $1.00 per gallon capacity for pressurized systems up to a maximum rebate of $5,000 are available for rainwater harvesting systems. Irrigation Upgrade Rebate 6 Customers may receive up to $1,000 in rebates for making improvements to their existing irrigation systems to increase water efficiency. New irrigation systems and expansions to existing systems are not eligible. rWise NG REBATES
Conservation Rebates,Tools, Tips, and more
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18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ & CHLOE YOUNG
30 AISD campuses receive failing 2022 23 TEA scores Nearly 43% of Austin ISD campuses received a “D” or “F” rating from the Texas Education Agency in the 2022-23 school year. What happened The state agency publicly released its A F in 2023, more than half of those campuses were rated “B” the year prior, he said. Campus performance declined statewide
Some students to change bus pick-up Some Austin ISD magnet and choice-pro- gram students will no longer have neigh- borhood bus pick-up, according to a news release. What you need to know All Austin ISD magnet schools and Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders will use a “hub model” for transportation. The new hub model means that students will no longer be picked up in their individual neighborhoods and will instead be picked up at their nearest AISD middle or high school, called their “hub.” Families can nd their nearest hub on the district's website. Students will be assigned to their nearest “hub,” but families can call the transportation department at 512-414-0238 to change it. Families will be responsible for making arrangements to get their child to and from the hub location, o cials said. The new hub model will go into e ect for the 2025-26 school year. What else The decision comes as Austin ISD is work- ing to “address nancial challenges” with their operational budget, the news release said. The district is currently projecting a $110 million shortfall at the end of the 2024-25 scal year, as previously reported by Commu- nity Impact. The transportation hub model will reduce costs with bus maintenance, such as gas and mileage.
between the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years. Of the 8,368 campuses given both 2022 “what if” scores and 2023 ratings, 44% received the same grade, 13% received a higher grade in 2023 and 43% received a lower grade in 2023, Texas Educa- tion Agency Commissioner Mike Morath said. “This is not just happening in Austin ISD,” school board President Lynn Boswell said. “This is a systematic reshaping of the yard stick that’s used to measure our state’s public schools.” The background Schools have not received complete A F ratings since 2019. Accountability ratings were not issued at all in 2020 or 2021, due to the coronavirus pandemic. In 2022, schools that received a C or lower were deemed “not rated” as they recovered from pandemic-related learning loss.
accountability ratings for Texas school districts April 24. The release of the scores was stalled for two years after more than 100 school districts sued the TEA over 2023 changes to the A F rating system. “We know we have to do better, and we know we need to step up to meet the increase in demands, even in an imperfect system that will not capture the brilliance of all children as they go through their educational journey,” AISD Super- intendent Matias Segura said at an April 24 press conference. What they’re saying Segura said AISD saw a “drastic swing” in its ratings. While 30 campuses received an “F” rating
2022 23 AISD A F campus ratings Under the new 2022-23 rating system, many schools saw lower ratings.
All campuses
Elementary schools
Middle schools
High schools
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
A B C D F
A B C D F
A B C D F
A B C D F
SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY COMMUNITY IMPACT
NOTE: TOTALS MAY NOT EQUAL 100% DUE TO ROUNDING.
Austin ISD considering school consolidations Austin ISD o cials are considering consolidating schools as a potential option to combat ongoing budget challenges, Plans for the consolidations are still being discussed. Voting for consolidation will happen December 2025. What you need to know
School utilization by percentage of student seats lled Open seats Filled seats Elementary
estimated 49 schools in the district to be considered, AISD o cials said. However, district o cials said all 49 schools being consolidated is only a theoretical estimate that produces the maximum amount of savings, not the “realistic” amount of campuses that could be consolidated if the board approves the action. AISD o cials were unable to provide the names of schools that could be considered for consolida- tion as of press time.
Middle school
29%
71%
36%
64%
High school
District-wide
15%
85%
27%
73%
Elementary schools with less than 500 students and middle schools with less than 750 students could be considered in the plan. That includes an
SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD COMMUNITY IMPACT
19
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
Transportation
Development
BY HALEY MCLEOD
BY SARAH HERNANDEZ, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & BEN THOMPSON
New initiative aims to eliminate tra c deaths March 11, Travis County commissioners approved a goal of achieving a 50% reduction in roadway fatalities by 2035 and 100% by 2050. Explained The Safe Streets for All initiative—which has been adopted by cities and transportation agencies across the nation—aims to eliminate tra c-related serious injuries and fatalities. Also referred to as Vision Zero, the county is currently developing its safety action plan. The current study area includes all of Travis County with a focus on unincorporated areas, as well as partnering jurisdictions within the county. Developing this plan will open doors for future funding from the U.S. Department of Transporta- tion, Commissioner Ann Howard said. The federal grant program is providing $5 billion over a ve- year period toward local road safety e orts. The
Project Connect needs contractor
Legislation could lift limits on future UT hospital site A new medical complex set to rise on the former Frank Erwin Center property could potentially get some support from the Texas Legislature. What’s happening The future site of The University of Texas Future medical complex property 35 Capitol View Corridors protect sight lines to the Capitol by blocking construction Current Restrictions
TravCo crashes
Distracted driving
Under the in uence
Speeding
3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000
Austin Transit Partnership issued a multibillion-dollar request for design and construction rms Feb. 5. ATP anticipates receiving inquiries from engineering rms worldwide. The contract is estimated to be $3 to $4 billion dollars. The agency’s procurement team will assess procedures, timing and draft con- tracts during the formal vetting progress to begin in June.
The development will contain 299,373 square feet of residential and commercial space.
RENDERING COURTESY GIANT NOISE
Texas Capitol Capitol View Corridors
system’s new hospital campus is currently con- strained by Capitol View Corridors that limit devel- opment within sight lines of the Capitol dome. A pair of bills are proposed this year to remove those restrictions, which o cials said could clear the way for a larger hospital complex. The new UT Austin and MD Anderson Cancer Center campus will be situated on 19-acres in Austin’s Innovation District. The UT Medical Center would include a 250-bed hospital and 156- bed cancer center, UT previously announced, with groundbreaking set for 2026. A closer look Several Capitol View Corridors cross the site.
Luxury condos break ground downtown Developer Pearlstone Partners broke ground on a new luxury condominium downtown in March. The details The Belvedere at 300 Pressler St., Austin, will feature 158 one- to three-bedroom residences starting at $800,000. Amenities include pools, tness studios, a restaurant, theater room, pet lounge and 3-acre park.
500
0
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
SOURCES: TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
N
program is expected to continue until 2026. The nal draft of the Travis County safety action plan is expected to be submitted to commissioners by May for nal approval. Some of the top concerns revolved around speeding, distracted and aggressive driving, the initiative’s project manager Dan Malson said.
“...We are trying to be as collaborative with the industry as possible.” BRAD CUMMINGS, ATP’S SENIOR VP OF PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
Senate Bill 2076 from Sen. Brandon Creighton, R Conroe, and House Bill 3114 from Rep. Charlie Geren, R Fort Worth, would eliminate the cor- ridors over the property. SB 2076 moved out of committee and the House passed HB 3114 in April.
ARBORETUM 10515 N Mopac Expy (512) 342-6893
HIGHLAND 5775 Airport Blvd (512) 366-8300
NORTH LAMAR 914 North Lamar (512) 214-6665
Events
BY DACIA GARCIA
With soccer season in full swing, community members can enjoy a day cheering on Austin FC at one of the team’s home games. • May 3: Austin FC vs Minnesota United FC • May 14: Austin FC vs Atlanta United FC • May 17: Austin FC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC • May 28: Austin FC vs Real Salt Lake • June 14: Austin FC vs New York Red Bull s • Q2 Stadium, 10414 McKalla Place, Austin • www.q2stadium.com Games coming to Q2 Stadium in May, June
For those who can’t make it out to the stadium or prefer a bar setting to tune in, here are restaurants and bars in the North Austin area to watch a game from:
PECAN PARK BLVD. 1 Casa Chapala Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar • 9041 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, Austin • www.casachapala.com 2 Cover 2 • 13701 Research Blvd., Austin • www.cover-2.com 3 Detour Domain • 11101 Burnet Rd., Austin • No website available 4 Pluckers Wing Bar • 9070 Research Blvd., Ste. 201C, Austin • www.pluckers.com 5 Spinners • 14106 N. I-35 frontage Road, Ste. A, Austin • www.spinnersaustin.com 6 The Boat • 10931 Stonelake Blvd., Austin • www.theboatatx.com 7 The Bon Aire • 9070 Research Blvd., Ste. 101, Austin • www.bonaireatx.com 8 The Water Tank 620
45 TOLL
35
5
THE LAKES BLVD.
2
POND SPRINGS RD.
WELLS BRANCH PKWY.
8
RESEARCH BLVD.
MOPAC
STONELAKE BLVD.
183
3
6
Q2 STADIUM
360
2222
1
• 7309 McNeil Drive, Austin • www.austinwatertank.com
7 4
35
N
MAP NOT TO SCALE
CAPITAL OF TEXAS HWY.
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
JUST FORE! YOU
A TOUR OF THE STATE, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT APRIL 2025
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
WEEKENDER: A Big Time in Big Spring CRITTER: Gray Fox MADE IN TEXAS: A Recipe for Stunning Ceramics OUT THERE: Meanwhile, in Texas FEATURE PREVIEW: The Texas Monthly Profile of Scottie Scheffler
Above: Hotel Settles, in Big Spring.
23
NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION
CRITTER
Gray Fox
HOW CAN I IDENTIFY ONE? Look for a black stripe, typically run- ning down the length of the animal’s back. Gray foxes also have a “bright orange patch on the side of their face and neck,” says Amanda Veals Dutt, a postdoctoral scientist at Sul Ross State University. That distinguishes the species from the slightly larger, non-native red fox (which settlers near Waco introduced for hunting in the 1890s) and two smaller species: the swift fox, found in the Panhandle, and the kit fox, which roams West Texas. WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT IT? It can thrive in a range of habitats, in part because it’ll eat almost anything —mice, small birds, insects—and it seems to enjoy living close to humans. Attacks on us (or dogs or cats) are rare, but rabbits and guinea pigs might make a tasty snack. And if you keep chickens? “They’re basically ice-cream cones running around,” says John Tomeček, a carnivore ecologist at Texas A&M University. ANY URBAN FOX TALES? In October 2021, in front of at least one hundred onlookers at the San Antonio River Walk, firefighters rescued a baby gray fox stranded on a window ledge about 25 feet o¥ the ground. More re- cently, Bethany Snowden, a lieutenant with the city’s animal care services department, sent colleagues to scoop up a fox that had wandered into a court- house. “We enjoy saving urban wildlife,” she says, adding that both foxes were transferred to Wildlife Rescue and Re- habilitation, a local sanctuary. —Rose Cahalan
WEEKENDER
A “Big” Secret in West Texas With a grand hotel and a rich history that includes oil, rail, and Midnight Cowboy , this Permian Basin town holds some surprises. BY COURTNEY BOND
a diner-style room complete with red vinyl– topped chrome stools. At the south end of town, the four-hundred- acre Comanche Trail Park is home to Big Spring’s big spring. Well, what’s left of it. The railroad, the ranches, and all the other busi- nesses of civilization long ago drained the water table, but ocials utilize what they call artificial outflow, making for a nice waterfall that spills into a reservoir. Continue your educational journey during lunch at Local’s, a onetime school building down the street from the park. After lunch, fill up on the town’s more modern history at the Heritage Museum of Big Spring. For supper, pop in at J Jayz Bar and Grill (across from the Train Car) for colorful cock- tails and the kind of food—burgers, quesadillas —needed to soak them up. Or head back to home base and enjoy a whiskey sour and chicken-fried steak from Settles Grill. To read the full story, please subscribe to Texas Monthly .
FRIDAY: If you did nothing else but spend a night at Hotel Settles, your visit would be worthwhile. A dust-colored brick building rising fifteen stories, its glowing red rooftop sign visible for miles, the crown jewel of Big Spring exemplifies the word “landmark.” Catty-corner to the hotel, across Runnels Street, is what appears to be downtown’s most popular restaurant, Devour. Inside a narrow space, patrons pair giant margaritas with hearty American fare that includes burgers, pork chops, and bacon-wrapped quail with green onions and hot honey. After dinner, make tracks two blocks north and one street over to the Train Car Cigar Bar. SATURDAY: The sign outside still says Dell’s Café, but this spare restaurant with the odd name of Neutral Ways serves fat egg-filled tacos and classic American breakfast plates in
The entrance to Comanche Trail Park.
24
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