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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 4 AUG. 22 SEPT. 22, 2025
Proposed Kyle Sportsplex clears more hurdles
Potential additions
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The facility would o er a range of amenities for the community if completed.
18
Pickleball courts
8
Rectangular elds
4
Volleyball courts (standalone)
$11.2M
2
Playgrounds
$19.2M
Multiuse courts (basketball, volleyball, etc.)
2
$12.3M
2
Basketball courts (standalone)
$30.6M
1
Dog parks
1
Fitness zones/exercise stations
1
Walking loops/running tracks
$88.6M
1
Disc golf courses
Total cost $161.9M
90 Acres
A ve-part plan will break the project into smaller phases, aiming to secure funding along the way. © GOOGLE EARTH
SOURCES: CITY OF KYLE COMMUNITY IMPACT
Rizo, adding that he is excited to begin work on the rst phase, which is budgeted at $33 million. “The youth of Kyle deserve this,” District 5 coun- cil member Marc McKinney said. “It’s a worthwhile investment.”
a development guide, o cials envision the site becoming a year-round hub for sports and commu- nity connection—though funding challenges remain ahead. “Is it going to happen overnight? No. We’re limited by funding, right? But we’re going to do all we can,” said District 2 council member Robert
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Five years in the making, the vision for Kyle’s sportsplex is in the home stretch after years of planning, public input and municipal collaboration. On July 16, city leaders approved the nal master plan for the 90-acre, $161.9 million recreation and sports destination. Using the ve-phase plan as
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Also in this issue
Impacts: Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant in Buda reopens after a yearlong closure, plus more business updates (Page 8)
Transportation: Buda residents shape West Goforth Road redesign, plus more road updates (Pages 18 19)
Dining: Check out our curated list of places throughout Hays County to have dinner with your furry friend (Page 29)
Heart care without all the hurdles. Get care that keeps you on track. From preventive screenings to more comprehensive cardio care, our leading experts at the Heart & Vascular Institute work with you to create a plan your heart
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Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2025 Baylor Scott & White Health. 13-ATX-1298109 DT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
at 6 Creeks in Kyle STAR FROM 15,990 MODELS
On the west side of Kyle, 6 Creeks features beautiful oak trees and fun amenities. Enjoy access to Austin, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, and San Marcos in less than 30 minutes!
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
3 NEW MODEL HOMES, A NEW ELEMENTARY, AND A BUSHEL OF FOOD AND FUN. The rst signs of fall are in the air and we’re celebrating the season in a grand way. You’re invited to explore new single-family models by David Weekley Homes and Scott Felder Homes in our newest neighborhood, Sage Corner, along with the eight models in our rst neighborhood, Revelwood. Enjoy food truck fare, refreshments and fall-themed kids activities. Plus, tour newly opened Mayfair Elementary. NEW HOMES STARTING FROM THE $290 s
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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 Katlynn Fox Dacia Garcia Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Karoline Pfeil Sam Scha er Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Joel Valley Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss Abigail Jones Sabrina Musachia
Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com
Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Amareth Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara Austin Market President Travis Baker
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SERVICE TIMES: Worship: Sunday 10 am Bible Class: Sunday 9 am Wed 7 pm
Welcoming our new minister Adam Comeaux
3740 FM 967 | Buda, TX 78610 | 512-312-5900 | Christians@SouthernHillsCOC.org Services are ASL interpreted for the deaf & also translated to Spanish. Please come visit our loving, growing and active church family in the Buda-Kyle/South Austin area. | WE LOVE BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US. 1 JOHN 4:19 Come to church.
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Impacts
San Marcos
BLANCO RIVER
4 Round Table Pizza The eatery offers made-to-order and specialty pizzas, plus sides like mozzarella sticks, jalapeño poppers and parmesan potato wedges. Guests can dine in, or order for delivery or takeout. • Opened July 31 • 1430 N. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 110, San Marcos • www.roundtablepizza.com 5 El Pollo Rico The Central Texas-based Mexican restaurant chain specializes in charcoal-grilled chicken and carne asada, serving chicken taco plates, flautas, quesadillas, tostadas and tortas. • Opened June 25 • 5403 S. I-35 frontage road, San Marcos • www.pollosricos.com 6 Rodd & Gunn Known for its menswear and accessories, the retailer opened in the former Lafayette 148 New York storefront, which closed in early spring. • Opened in May • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 S. I-35 frontage
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road, Ste. 945, San Marcos • www.roddandgunn.com/us 1979
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7 Friends of the San Marcos Public Library Library officials unveiled a donor wall, designed to recognize sponsors who contribute to the community space. • Opened June 24 • 625 E. Hopkins St., San Marcos • www.sanmarcostx.gov/3879/Library Caring Transitions Resident and former real estate broker Chad Hardin said he opened the senior relocation and transition services franchise to ease families’ stress. Caring Transitions offers assistance with decluttering, resettling, clean- outs, space planning, and managing estate sales and
CENTER POINT RD.
Marcos, offering gyros, salad bowls, soups, housemade dips and more. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe also has locations in New Braunfels and San Antonio. • Opened Aug. 5 • 1101 Thorpe Lane, Ste. 107, San Marcos • www.tazikis.com 3 Skip’s Beer, Wine & Liquor Customers can purchase a variety of beer, wine, liquor and mixers. Skip’s also has locations on Guadalupe and Moore streets in San Marcos. • Opened July 8 • 1506 N. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 104, San Marcos • www.skipsliquor.com
Now open
1 Ollie’s Market Owners Eli and Natalie Zablosky now offer locally sourced, health-conscious produce, pantry staples, dairy, meat, and more at Ollie’s Market. The store also features an in-house deli with a rotating menu of freshly prepared items such as sandwiches and salads. • Opened Aug. 15 • 314 N. Edward Gary St., San Marcos • www.shopolliesmarket.com 2 Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe Owners Lexie Leinneweber, Cole Leinneweber and Mark Parmerlee opened the Mediterranean spot in San
online auctions. • Opened June 2 • Mobile business • www.caringtransitions.com
Before
After
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What we do: ¤ Full mouth rehabilitation ¤ Crowns and bridges with or without implants ¤ All-on-4, All-on-X
¤ Veneers ¤ Snap dentures, dentures, partial dentures ¤ Cosmetic dentistry
Dr. “Jane” Chia-Chen Tsai, DDS, MSD | 512-518-4358 | www.CentralTexasProsthodontics.com | 2410 Hunter Rd, Ste 101, San Marcos, TX 78666
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
metal railings. The team is also celebrating 15 years of offering repairs and data recovery, as well as new and refurbished laptops. • 2206 Old Ranch Road 12, San Marcos • www.sanmarcoscomputers.com
Coming soon
Now open
8 The Children’s Place A 6,200-square-foot clothing retailer will open at Tanger San Marcos in 2026. The shop will offer clothing for newborns through children’s size 14. • Tanger San Marcos, 4015 S. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 510, San Marcos • www.childrensplace.com 9 H-E-B Construction on a third H-E-B is set to begin in September. In addition to groceries and home goods, officials said the 119,000-square-foot store will also feature a True Texas BBQ restaurant, a pharmacy with pickup spaces, curbside services and a fuel station. • Opening TBD • I-35 and McCarty Ln., San Marcos • www.heb.com
What’s next
11 Sunglass Hut Specializing in men’s and women’s shades in a variety of styles, Sunglass Hut will undergo a remodel from Sept. 8 to Oct. 23, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 S. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 1385, San Marcos • https://stores.sunglasshut.com
13 Sea Barra Gilberto and Rosario Amillano opened Sea Barra after launching their food truck last November. The brick- and-mortar restaurant serves a variety of dishes— from tacos and seafood to micheladas—featuring recipes inspired by the Sinaloa region of Mexico. • Opened July 26 • 420 University Drive, San Marcos • www.seabarra.com
Closings
12 Neon Armadillo Specializing in seed oil-free, hyper-local dishes with a Texas flair, Neon Armadillo closed its food truck to prepare for a brick-and-mortar restaurant slated to open in mid-September at The Junction in Wimberley. • Closed July 6 • 13701 Ranch Rd. 12, Wimberley
Relocations
10 San Marcos Computers Owner Michael Potash relocated the shop relocated five buildings from its Ranch Road 12 site to a new location with ADA parking, a ramp, concrete walkways and
Project Completion January 2026
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
Impacts
Buda & Kyle
latest coffee trailer, offering a range of espressos, brewed coffees, teas and baked goods—both savory and sweet. Shock and Sivils opened their first coffee truck in South Austin two years ago. • Opened in May • 1710 N. FM 1626, Buda • https://doxacoffeeroasters.com
Buda
1626
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LEISUREWOODS DR.
1626
Coming soon
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4 Sprouts Farmers Market The natural, organic grocery store will offer a variety of fresh produce, meat and seafood. Other options include natural body care, household supplies, vitamins and baked goods. • Opening Oct. 10 • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Kyle • www.sprouts.com 5 Southern Sky Jewelry Locals Jeff and Janine Jones will open an artisanal jewelry shop inside the former Cozy Corner space in downtown Buda. The shop will also offer hat styling and shaping services.
HEROES MEMORIAL DR.
WINDY HILL RD.
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• Opening in September • 200 S. Main St., Buda • www.southernskyjewelry.com
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Kyle
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6 Grit & Gyle Brewing Co. A $3 million, 6,250-square-foot craft brewery is in the planning stages. Officials are expected to begin the 13-month construction process in September. • Opening is TBD • 705 N. Old. Hwy. 81, Kyle • No website available as of press time 7 Burn Boot Camp Local franchise partners Kellie and Lance Heller will open a Burn Boot Camp, which offers 45-minute workouts combining strength and conditioning with functional movement. Nutritional support, pop-up workout camps and complementary childwatch come with a gym membership. • Opening in January • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Bldg. C, Kyle • www.locations.burnbootcamp.com/locations/kyle-tx
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2 That’s So Grandma Owned by Mary-Kate Enriquez, the vintage clothing, accessory and shoe shop began as a pop-up at local markets in 2022. Enriquez is from a small town in Iowa and said growing up, her grandma would take her thrift shopping, and that inspired her to open That’s So Grandma. • Opened in May • 204 S. Main St., Buda • Instagram: thatsograndmaa 3 Doxa Coffee Roasters Buda locals Nick Shock and JT Sivils launched their
Now open
1 Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant After a year-long closure for renovations, owner Curtis Garcia reopened his restaurant. The family-owned spot serves authentic Mexican dishes such as the Steak Mozumel, a rib-eye steak served with a cheese enchilada, rice, charro beans and guacamole. Recipes are based on the Garcia family recipes. • Opened in July • 575 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Kyle • www.garciasmexicanrestaurantcentraltexas.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & SIENNA WIGHT
8 A Little Shady Co-owners Rusty Zagst and David Ryan are breaking ground on a new Shady Grove concept. A restaurant and bar, construction began on A Little Shady in August and is expected to run through mid-February. Shady Grove was a restaurant, bar and live music venue located at 1624 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, which closed its doors in 2020 after 28 years of operation.
Relocations
Relocations
10 Rose & Crown Tattoos The tattoo studio caters to both first-time and seasoned tattoo collectors with a half dozen artists offering a range of styles such as illustrative, florals, Japanese, folk art, traditional and more. The shop also offers eyebrows and other beauty tattoos. • Relocated Aug. 1
• Opening early 2026 • 5172 S. FM 1626, Kyle • No website available as of press time
• 616 S. Old Stagecoach Rd. Kyle • www.roseandcrowntattoos.com
9 Perspire An 1,800-square-foot Perspire Sauna Studio will break ground at The Shops at The Brick and Mortar District in Kyle in September, according to owners Jackie and Michael Schweitzer. The Kyle studio will offer contrast therapy opportunities with a full-spectrum infrared sauna with medical-grade red light therapy and SNø showers, a 24-inch ice-cold rainfall. • Opening by late 2025 • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Ste. A-200, Kyle • www.perspiresaunastudio.com/tx/kyle
Closings
11 The Cozy Corner One year after opening, The Cozy Corner announced the closure of their downtown Buda space. The micro- event venue hosted vendor events, market days and educational classes. • Closed July 1 • 200 S. Main St., Buda • Facebook: Cozy Corner Buda
12 Bloodworth BBQ The downtown Kyle barbecue restaurant moved into the space next door to its former spot at 210 W. Center St. Thomas Bloodworth said the new suite provides indoor seating. Bloodworth BBQ offers fresh smoked meats, sandwiches and sides. • Relocated Aug. 1 • 208 W. Center St., Kyle • www.bloodworthbbq.com
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
Government
Kyle Mayor to step down one year early Kyle Mayor Travis Mitchell announced on July 15 that he will resign from o ce in November, one year before the end of his nal term. The overview Mitchell said his decision followed “deep re ec- tion” and was driven by three main factors: • Con dence in the city’s current position • A desire to return to the private sector • A belief in making room for new leadership Mitchell said serving as mayor has been a mean- ingful experience, but it requires him to set aside personal goals and career opportunities. “This next chapter will allow me to focus on those areas again and apply what I’ve learned in public life to new challenges and ventures,” he said.
3 election updates Election Day is November 4
"Thank you for the trust, the grace, and the chance to lead the city I love. Until
my nal meeting, I’ll keep doing everything I can to move Kyle forward." TRAVIS MITCHELL, KYLE MAYOR
1 San Marcos Voters will elect city council members for Places 1 and 2 and decide on several city charter amendments, including whether to extend the mayor’s term from 2 years to 4 years and reduce the minimum number of regular council meetings by two. 2 Buda Residents will vote on eight charter amendment propositions, ranging from increasing council members’ compensation for meeting attendance to removing outdated language and grammatical errors. 3 Kyle In addition to a new mayor to serve the remainder of Travis Mitchell’s term through November 2026, voters will choose representatives for council places 1, 2 and 3, as well as city charter amendments.
Digging deeper Mitchell, who joined as District 1 council mem- ber in June 2016 and became mayor in November 2017, will have served the longest mayoral tenure in Kyle’s history. In his announcement, he highlighted milestones throughout his tenure, including investments in public safety, infrastructure, parks and economic development. He also noted the launch of initia- tives such as Kyle 3-1-1. The mayoral race will coincide with elections for the at-large council seats in Districts 1 and 3.
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302 - 308 South Main Street Buda TX 78610 www.budamillandgrain.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL, ELISABETH JIMENEZ & SIENNA WIGHT
Hays County approves weather hazard plan Hays County Commissioners approved the 2025 Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mit- igation Plan during a July 8 meeting, as the area continues to grapple with severe
County plans tax hike after overturned bond Hays County residents may see an increase in their property taxes as the county works to nd alternative funds for 30 road projects, defunded after a Travis County Court case overturned a 2024 road bond election. The tax rate would be the same rate that was approved by voters as part of the November 2024 road bond election. The details Hays County Commissioners unanimously voted July 29 to publish a notice of intent to increase the tax rate by $0.02 per $100 assessed home value to fund most of the road projects included in the 2024 road bond, according to agenda documents. In November 2024, 55% of Hays County residents voted in support of the $440 million road bond, which also included a $0.02 increase to the tax rate. The court approved issuing $240 million in
"We’re upholding voters’ decision by their vote [on the bond]. They have asked us to
move forward with those critical improvements." DEBBIE GONZALES INGALSBE, COMMISSIONER
weather events. The breakdown
The plan aims to reduce the impacts of weather hazards on people and property through priority actions for the county, area cities and school districts to incorporate, such as structural reinforcement and install- ing additional weather monitoring systems. Population growth and more frequent, violent weather events demonstrate a need to brace for impacts on people and property, the plan states. Judge Ruben Becerra said recent Central Texas oods highlighted the importance of hazard mitigation.
certi cates of obligation—a separate funding mechanism from a bond that funds projects with- out voter approval—to fund the projects approved by voters in the 2024 bond. The background The Hays County road bond was overturned after a Travis County judge voided the election, ruling that Hays County failed to meet public notice requirements under the Texas Open Meetings Act.
Hays County, City of Kyle weigh surveillance options
“I see both sides. I see the side of how it could help our o cers in real time in the event of a major emergency,
voiced opposition over potential use by other government agencies, speci cally Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. However, some commissioners and HCSO o cials said the cameras would be useful for crime-solving needs. Kyle council members discussed similar con- cerns after approving the purchase of surveillance towers, which would be used for large events.
Hays County Commissioners paused the purchase of additional automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, from security hardware company Flock Safety after mixed community
but also at the same time understand how residents may feel about Big Brother watching over them.” MICHAEL TOBIAS, KYLE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER DISTRICT 6
feedback on July 29. What’s happening?
Commissioners requested more time to consider public feedback. During public comment, speakers
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
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Kyle FM 1626, Suite 200 Kyle, TX 78640
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY GRACE DICKENS
LCRA expands rebates for home water conservation projects the summer is used outdoors depending on the region, about 50% of which is wasted partially due to overwatering, according to the Environmental Protection Agency in 2024. What’s covered Part of the WaterSmart program, the LCRA now offers higher maximum rebates on water-saving projects.
The Lower Colorado River Authority is expanding its water conservation rebate program from $600 to $3,000 per eligible residential property annually, the organization announced in a news release July 1. The details Rebates cover the cost of materials but not labor or taxes, according to the news release. The rebates are available to most businesses and residents that receive water from an LCRA firm water customer. It’s also available to domestic use LCRA customers with contracts to draw water directly from the Highland Lakes, the news release states. This includes cities such as Cedar Park, Dripping Springs, Pflugerville and Leander, alongside munic- ipal utility districts such as the Lakeway MUD, Hurst Creek MUD and several Travis county MUDs. The context About 30-60% of the water homeowners use in
Original rebate
New rebate
Of the 29 billion gallons of water used daily in households across the U.S., about 9 billion gallons are used outdoors primarily for irrigating landscapes, according to the EPA. The EPA also estimates that a single broken sprinkler head could result in up to 25,000 gallons of water being wasted over six months of irrigation. “We hope these rebates encourage residents to use technology and take other measures to cut back on outdoor water use, which saves both water and money,” said John Hofmann, LCRA executive vice president of water. Rebates for water conservation from the LCRA are also available for businesses, schools and other institutions. Residents can sign up at www.lcra.org/ water/watersmart.
Type of improvement
Mechanical aeration
$100 $200
Compost and mulch
$600 $1,000
Converting turf grass to native garden beds or drought-tolerant landscapes
$600 $2,000
Rebates are also available on: • Soil moisture and rain sensors • Irrigation system evaluations • Pressure-reducing heads, nozzles, valves and in-line regulators • WaterSense smart controllers • Pool filters and covers • Soil testing SOURCE: LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
sun the @ fun
Lakeside Amenity Center Now Open!
Just 15 minutes south of downtown Austin, Sunfield offers endless ways to have fun in your own backyard! Enjoy the miles of hike and bike trails , catch and release ponds , the dog parks or our three spectacular Amenity Centers including Swimming Pools , two Lazy Rivers and plenty of shade!
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
Education
Johnson High School renovations to begin Renovations at Hays CISD Johnson High School are slated to begin this fall, about five months after the May 2025 Bond passed. The details JHS will be getting upgrades including construction, sitework, furniture, fixtures, and more as part of Proposition A in the 2025 bond. The renovations also include a $16.5 million, expanded weight room. The renovation project is estimated to cost $27.6 million and is anticipated to start in early September, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Construction is expected to finish in April 2027.
Bus routes stop for some Hays CISD students Over 200 Hays CISD students are seeing new school bus routes for the 2025-26 school year, which began Aug. 13. Impacted students included residents in some Kyle, Fuentes and Ramage Elementary neighborhoods. The setup Students eligible to ride a bus must live 2 or more miles away from their zoned school, or live less than 2 miles away but live in an area with hazardous traffic conditions. Roads are considered hazardous if they have the following conditions: • Students walk along or across a freeway • An expressway, overpass or underpass • No walkway is provided; therefore, students must cross an “uncontrolled, major traffic artery.” The board of trustees approved the new
DACY LN.
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Fuentes Elementary
Ramage Elementary
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designated hazardous areas at a board meeting June 24. The changes eliminated bus services in the following areas: • Fuentes Elementary: Dacy Lane • Kyle Elementary: Hometown Kyle neighbor- hood, Stagecoach Crossing community, Rebel Road and FM-150 • Ramage Elementary: Millcreek and Highlands at Gristmill neighborhoods.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & ELISABETH JIMENEZ
Students face new cell phone rules at school Students are no longer permitted to use cell phones or personal communication devices during the instructional day, which is defined as the time from the first bell to the last bell, including lunch and passing periods. In a nutshell The new policy comes from a new state law, House Bill 1481, which requires Texas public schools to restrict student access to personal communication devices while on campus. Prohibited devices include phones, smart watches, tablets, paging devices, head- phones and earbuds. Communication devices must be powered off and stored away out of sight or in a teacher-provided storage area.
Ramage Elementary School opens Hays CISD officials celebrated the opening of the district’s newest elementary school during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 1 at 575 Gristmill Road in Kyle. The gist The new school, Lamont Ramage Elementary, marks HCISD’s 17th elementary school and the 28th campus in the district. Construction on Ramage was approved by voters as part of a May 2023 bond. The campus is 117,611 square feet with a 900-student capacity, according to school officials. What else The school is named after Lamont Ramage, a former HCISD official and community member who also served as justice of the peace and the former mayor of the city of Hays.
Hays CISD o cials, board president Byron Severance (center) and trustee Esparanza Orosco (right) celebrate the opening of Lamont Ramage Elementary.
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Ramage was on the HCISD board from 1976-88, and served as president for five years. Trustees approved the name at a board meeting in late 2023, as previously reported by Community Impact .
QUICK MOVE-IN HOMES AVAILABLE!
Located in one of the fastest growing suburbs South of Austin , Crosswinds in Kyle is centered around Windy Point Amenity Center, where neighbors gather for Pickle Ball , Swimming or just relaxing in the Covered Pavilion . Younger residents can let out their energy at the Play- ground while furry friends run in the Dog Park! MASTER-PLANNED LIVING FROM THE $300s Breeze Life’s a
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KYLE
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Education
BY DACIA GARCIA & ANNA MANESS
Riverbat Bites Food Pantry opens at ACC
College district selects new chief of police
Meeting the need
Of the more than 74,000 students ACC serves each year:
Starting this fall, students at all Austin Com- munity College campuses can access food and personal care items at Riverbat Bites Food Pantry. Zooming in The college announced in an email that it would be opening food pantries on its campuses to “make sure students have what they need to stay focused and succeed.” Pantries will be stocked with healthy groceries, snacks and hygiene products which students can access free of charge. Put in perspective Cara Crowley, ACC special advisor to the chancellor for basic need systems, stated in the email release that meeting basic student needs is essential to helping them persist and transform their lives.
Austin Community College District o cials welcomed Gizette Disher as the college’s new chief of police Aug. 7. Explaining the role Disher will oversee
60% low income
48% food insecure
Gizette Disher
SOURCE: AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE COMMUNITY IMPACT
a team of 94 commis- sioned o cers and 20 sta , according to a news release. In the release, Disher said her top three goals are to: • Be visible and engaged to learn the needs of the ACC community • Understand concerns based on the needs • Collaborate to improve any shortcomings and challenges
“This is about more than food. It’s about open- ing doors for students, supporting their families, and building a stronger, more resilient Central Texas,” Crowley said. Additionally, students will now be able to get support enrolling in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program if they are interested in receiving extra food support.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY ANNA MANESS
State lawmakers invest $25M to grow active shooter response training site
For over a decade, the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University in San Marcos has been the national standard for active shooter training. With $25 million in recent funding from the state Legislature, ALERRT o cials will enhance its training facility near the San Marcos Regional Airport, Director of External Relations James Keith said. According to Texas State’s 2025-2035 campus master plan, o cials propose consolidating ALERRT operations and training at a site near the airport. The project is proposed to begin construction this year and is expected to wrap up by 2035, according to the campus master plan.
“Our long-term goals are to provide classroom spaces out there [and] dormitory spaces,” Keith said. “We’re very fortunate and grateful to the Legislature who allocated that funding, and we’re hoping to see dirt move sometime this year.” ALERRT was created in 2002 as a partnership between Texas State, the San Marcos Police Department and the Hays County Sheri ’s O ce after a trooper was killed in the line of duty, Keith said. In 2013, the FBI declared ALERRT as the national standard for active shooter training. Now, the program has dozens of partnerships with various law enforcement agencies.
The ALERRT Training Range is a 73-acre property 7 miles east of Texas State’s San Marcos campus.
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How it works
Why it matters
A team of researchers who study active shooter situations help the program continuously improve, as they identify correlations or patterns between incidents to modify ALERRT’s training, Keith said. As the types of attacks have evolved beyond active shooters, Keith said the ALERRT program adjusts to those changes. “That’s really what makes ALERRT stand out from other organizations and programs that o er active shooter training,” Keith said. “Ours is research-based. It’s constantly evolving, and we’re always updating our curriculum to make sure that we’re staying ahead of the game.”
ALERRT is funded through a mixture of state and federal funding, but the majority of ALERRT’s funding comes from a Community Oriented Polic- ing Services program, Keith said. As ALERRT has grown, the program has also developed nancial partnerships in other states, he said. While it costs money to provide trainings, ALERRT doesn’t charge organizations. To help execute classes and continue research, o cials are constantly looking for grants and new funding sources to expand the number of courses the program provides, Keith said.
Through regional managers and more than 300 adjunct instructors, ALERRT training has been delivered across all 50 states in the U.S., Keith said. While it’s hard to quantify the number of people the courses have a ected, Keith estimated over 300,000 people have directly bene ted from the program. “That number continues to grow,” Keith said. “We’re putting on 3,000 classes ... every year.”
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Transportation
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY
Kyle opens $11.4M road, breaks ground on $133M more
$107M San Marcos I-35 rebuild finished A $107 million transportation project in San Marcos, known as Mobility35, was completed Aug. 8 following a major overhaul of I-35, including reconstructed mainlanes, bridges and frontage roads. Officials said the goal was to improve traffic flow, safety and multimodal access along the busy corridor.
Buda residents shape West Goforth plan Community feedback guided Buda City Council’s approval on June 5 of the updated West Goforth Road design, which addresses traffic, safety and drainage. The details These changes come after Buda residents and business owners were invited to an open house on April 29 at Buda City Hall. Officials, who took the public feedback into account, requested that Austin-based Freese & Nichols, the firm contracted for design, adhere to several recommendations moving forward, including: • Decreasing truck traffic west of Stream Way • Exploring other traffic calming measures • Prioritizing drainage improvements • Removing both proposed roundabouts
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community—today and in the future.” Kohlers Crossing to Seton Parkway The $66.1 million investment will be completed in two phases: Phase 1 is underway, which includes 1.07 miles of new roadway to improve traffic circulation. Phase 2 is expected to begin in fall 2027 and will construct a 0.13-mile underpass beneath I-35 and elevate the highway. BeBee Road The $66.7 million Bebee Road project also includes two phases: Phase 1 will focus on a 1-mile segment from the I-35 northbound frontage road to Sunlight Boule- vard by expanding it to four lanes. A new two-lane roundabout, as well as acceleration and decelera- tion lanes, will be added near the I-35 intersection for safer merging, officials said. Phase 2 will widen a 1.8-mile section from
Kyle’s 2022 road bond program reached new milestones July 17 as the city broke ground on two projects ahead of a grand opening celebration for its first completed project July 31, city officials announced. Market place avenue Marketplace Avenue is the first of eight projects funded by the bond to be completed, according to a news release. The $11.4 million project widened the roadway. It officially opened to drivers follow- ing the grand opening. The groundbreakings kicked off projects 2 and 3, including the extension of Kohlers Crossing to Seton Parkway, and the expansion of Bebee Road. “These projects are a major step forward in strengthening our city’s transportation network,” Mike Trimble, Kyle’s director of transportation and public works, said in the release. “They represent our continued commitment to building infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing
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About the project The voter-approved project—financed with approximately $20.9 million in 2021 Buda Bond Proposition A funds—will include a full-depth asphalt pavement reconstruction of West Goforth Road from South Loop 4 to I-35, according to the city’s bond website. Stay tuned Final design plans are ongoing, and the timing for construction will depend on the right-of-way and easement acquisition process, according to city officials.
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Sunlight Boulevard to just east of Green Pastures Road. Officials said it will add three two-lane roundabouts and safety improvements to accom- modate increased traffic. How we got here Voters approved the $294 million bond package, also known as Proposition A, in November 2022 to fund improvements to 10.3 miles of roadways. According to the city, all projects are expected to be completed by winter 2029.
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SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366
CREEKSIDE TOWN CENTER 263 Creekside Crossing (830) 608-1969 NEW BRAUNFELS 1671 IH-35 S (830) 629-0434
SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 S I-35 Frontage Rd (512) 280-7400
Development
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
San Marcos reviews $557M, 100-acre mixed-use project
petition to create a Public Improvement District, or PID, was filed with the city on June 9. If approved, this would allow the city to issue up to $60 million in bonds, funded through property assessments within the district. The PID would encompass the entire site. The impact According to city documents, the assessed value at full buildout would be $557 million and generate more than $66.1 million in revenue for Hays County. If approved, the project would be completed in three phases through 2031. Next steps A public hearing is set for Sept. 2. Council members will then consider a zoning change to allow two- to five-story buildings to accommo- date the proposed mixed-use district, according to city documents, as well as the PID and a Chapter 380 economic development agreement.
San Marcos officials are considering a proposal from Austin-based American Ventures LLC for a 100-acre mixed-use district near East McCarty Lane and Rattler Road—about 500 feet from San Marcos High School. The overview San Marcos City Council members have been in talks related to the project, known as Project AVSM, since early this summer during executive session. According to an Aug. 5 city council agenda, the concept includes apartments, townhomes, single-family and build-to-rent homes, along with live-work-play units. Plans also outline a hotel and commercial space. Zooming in According to a letter from Austin real estate attorney Steven Metcalfe of Metcalfe, Wolff, Stu- art & Williams LLP to Amanda Hernandez, San Marcos’ director of planning and development, a
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A look at the proposed district 1,196 Multifamily units 44 Townhomes 84 Single-family homes 120 Build-to-rent homes 16 Live-work-play units 130 Hotel rooms 144.2K sq. ft. of office, retail and grocery space
SOURCE: CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Development
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & JOEL VALLEY
Commercial tenants sought for 132-acre Kyle campus Officials with Austin-based Momark Devel- opment and Avision Young—a global real estate advisor—are working to find a suitable company that will fit a newly completed, 132-acre site in Kyle called Plum Creek: Innovation Campus. 1626 Plum Creek: Innovation Campus
Buda growth attracts industrial investment Alterra IOS, a Philadelphia-based investment, development and management company, recently acquired 3.5 acres at 168 Park 35 Cove North in Buda. United Site Services, a construction support company, occupies the property. The why Alterra IOS officials said Buda’s status as a high-demand economic hub spearheaded the purchase.
Peter Sherman, a principal with Avision Young, said in a news release the site features a newly expanded substation and comes with incentive opportunities. The details Damian McKinney, principal and managing director of Avision Young, added that the shov- el-ready site is ideal for those looking to establish headquarters. “We believe that this opportunity presents a variety of corporate uses,” said McKinney. “This site is well-positioned to be a central headquarters or corporate campus for the full 132 acres or can be divisible for use for smaller campuses.”
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Something to note Innovation Campus is walking distance to the upcoming retail district called The Shops at The Brick and Mortar District—a multiphase residen- tial and retail development. Nearing completion, the district will house the new Sprouts Farmers Market and the proposed sports complex.
Alterra IOS site acquisition
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
Proposed Kyle Sportsplex clears more hurdles From the cover
The plan
Kyle Sportsplex 2025 master plan
(an 80-mile citywide trail system underway)
Vybe trail Full multiuse field Native garden Parking lot Disc golf course
M C R E E K M E A D W O S .
In addition to sporting events, trails and green spaces will be open to the public, as well as a dog park, splash pads and more. The future of the project, though, rests on nding funding to build and operate the facility. District 2 Council Member Robert Rizo stressed the importance of curating a local-level sports center over regional, paid-competition teams, noting that local sports are more nancially inclusive. “It’s going to be a huge investment one day,” Rizo said. “Is it going to happen? We don’t know. We’re just adopting the plan right now. Maybe one day the voters will say, ‘Let’s make it happen,’ right? We have some funding right now to get started— let’s maximize those dollars.” Mayor Travis Mitchell said the debate does not come down to a choice between keeping a project local or having it privately funded. “Both of those things have to happen simultaneously in order for this project to succeed,” Mitchell said.
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1 Playground 2 Youth soccer fields 3 Championship field 4 Basketball courts 5 Volleyball courts 6 Multiuse plaza 7 Pop jet fountains 8 Multiuse courts 9 Futsal courts 10 Pickleball complex 11 Dog park 12 Multiuse space 13 Cromwell Drive road extension bridge
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SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE COMMUNITY IMPACT
RENDERINGS COURTESY URBAN ALCHEMY COLLECTIVE, CITY OF KYLE
The cost
The funding About $33 million is secured for the first phase. Funding for future phases has not been established.
20.4%
million project cost. Of that, $14 million comes from a 2020 voter-approved bond. The rest comes from various funds and sources in the capital improvements program spending plan, including an interlocal funding match from Hays County. That $33 million will be used for the first phase, which includes sports fields, trails and more.
The project would serve residents and attract visitors, Mitchell said, noting that this would be another community benefit as tournament traffic would likely generate additional revenue to help cover ongoing operating costs. City Manager Bryan Langley said the city has set aside $33 million, or about 20% of the $161.9
$161.9M
Secured funding Remaining
79.6%
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Community input
The timeline
Community member input was taken from surveys, pop-up events, workshops and focus groups. Feedback results
Mark Maldonado, founder of Urban Alchemy Collective, the community development and urban planning firm behind the plan, said officials explored two design approaches—one focused on high-capacity tournament facilities and the other on community wellness and environmental integration—and ultimately chose a blend of both. Maldonado said more than 4,000 responses were gathered, which revealed a strong interest in trails, playgrounds and athletic courts—partic- ularly for soccer, basketball and volleyball—along with requests for inclusive play areas, aquatics and shaded gathering spaces. During the July 16 meeting, as well as a town hall called by District 6 council member Michael Tobias in early August, residents raised concerns about the budget, traffic impacts, maintenance and potential exclusive tournament use. “This is ... a phased approach,” said Mayor Pro Tem Bear Heiser. “It is a long-term vision; it’s not something that is expected to happen all at once.”
The city will use the master plan as a guide for future development. Officials said residents can expect to stay engaged in the project. Sienna Wight contributed to this article. Nov. 3, 2020 Park bond and Kyle Sportsplex approved by voters July 19, 2022 Interlocal funding agreement approved June 24, 2024 Feasibility and master planning study kick off July 16, 2025 Master plan approved as a development guide Aug. 19, 2025* Council to consider design contract for Phase 1A TBD Indoor recreation plans finalized
Trails 48%
Playgrounds 46%
Gathering spaces 38%
Soccer 38%
Volleyball 31%
Basketball 38%
Splash pad 30%
Football 29%
Exercise station 29%
Aquatics 29%
*THIS MEETING WAS SCHEDULED TO HAPPEN AFTER PRESS TIME.
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
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