North - Northwest Austin Edition | October 2024

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

North Northwest Austin Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 9 OCT. 26NOV. 28, 2024

Dior is one of the newest luxury retailers opening at The Domain this year.

BRITTANY ANDERSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT The Domain gains luxury retailers, green space

“If you wanted to build a new high [end] restau- rant, it was always downtown,” said Kristopher Johnson, director of new restaurants for Sixty Vines. “What I’ve seen is a shift, and there are more cool restaurants coming up here.”

said Domain General Manager Scott Budge. Of its 120 restaurants and retail stores, 35 are exclusive to the market, and 14 are or will be luxury retailers. By the end of the year, over a dozen businesses will have opened at The Domain in 2024 alone, including restaurant Sixty Vines.

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Multimillion-dollar building facade and green- space renovations are underway at The Domain, a North Austin retail, residential and oce center. The center has attracted luxury retailers and top restaurants since its inception nearly 18 years ago,

CONTINUED ON 18

Also in this issue

Subscribe to our free daily email newsletter!

Impacts: Want to try something new? HissyFit in The Arboretum is now serving up Southern classics (Page 6)

Business: Start your day o right with our guide to local coee shops in North-Northwest Austin (Page 22)

“ Every kind of care for my child, all right here. That’s why Dell Children’s is my children’s hospital.

”

Your family never has to leave Austin to get the care your child needs, even if it’s a complex surgery. As Austin’s only nationally ranked pediatric hospital and the largest freestanding one in Central Texas, we offer the most comprehensive services and the most specialists — all from doctors who live here, work right here and get to know you. Start a conversation today.

Find the doctor who’s right for your child at ascension.org/DellChildrens

Only in Austin. Only at Dell Children’s.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

©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 10/17/24 and close by 10/17/24, 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. 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 interest rate and associated APR fluctuate on a daily basis and change due to individual situations). Offer may not be used with any other discounts, promotions 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. 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 Properties Group, Inc. DBA in Texas as Brohn Homes. HomeWithBrohn.com | 512-580-8199 It’s the season to Rake in the Savings! Close in November to get 10% FLEX CASH —use it to buydown your interest and apply any remaining funds to potentially eliminate closing costs. $ 0 Closing Costs Interest Rate Buydown Turn Renting Into Owning + +

NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Enhanced TxTag customer service is coming!

To improve customer experience, the Texas Department of Transportation is working toward transitioning toll collection, billing, and customer service operations to the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA).

Be sure that you’re ready. If you have a TxTag, log in to your account and confirm that your contact information, license plate(s), and payment methods are up to date. You must be signed up for AutoPay for your credit card information to transfer to HCTRA.

Don’t have a tag? Get one now. After the transition, drivers with a TxTag or other toll tag will continue to pay the lowest rates on toll roads in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Avoid higher toll rates and fees by paying any overdue toll bills and signing up for a tag today.

To learn more about this transition, visit TxTag.org.

1-888-468-9824

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Schaer

Taylor Stover General Manager tstover@ communityimpact.com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Product Manager Haley Grace Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara Publisher Travis Baker

Grace Dickens Editor gdickens@ communityimpact.com

Jill Futch Account Executive jfutch@ communityimpact.com

16225 Impact Way Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 CI Careers

Proudly printed by

Join CI Patron for exclusive newsletters and swag.

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact nnwnews@communityimpact.com nnwads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising communityimpact.com/newsletter

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

There’s a new storyteller in the driver’s seat. Hop In & Travel With Us for Season 53 of Texas Country Reporter with new host J.B. Sauceda.

NORTH NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

ARK BLVD.

Impacts

LAKE CREEK PKWY.

• Opened Sept. 27 • 12901 N. I-35, Ste. 600B, Austin • www.fivebelow.com

WELLS BRANCH PKWY.

TORNADO LN.

620

4 Sixty Vines The restaurant’s menu includes brunch, lunch and dinner options. Customers can choose from a variety of entrees, boards, shared plates, cocktails, desserts and more. • Opened Oct. 7 • 3401 Esperanza Crossing, Austin • www.sixtyvines.com 5 HK Tea The drink shop offers lemon teas, fruit teas, classic teas, milk teas and smoothies with over 20 add-on options. • Opened June 15 • 11800 Dessau Road, Ste. 301, Austin • www.hk-tea.com 6 Mr. Brew Coffee The business offers classic drinks such as black coffee, lattes and teas as well as specialty coffee drinks that can be served hot, iced or blended. The shop sells agua frescas, Italian sodas, smoothies and snacks. • Opened Sept. 6 • 8606 Research Blvd., Austin • www.mrbrewcoffee.com 7 Resolution Eyecare The locally owned vision care office offers vision and medical exams, glasses, contact lenses, dry eye therapy, myopia management and more. • Opened Aug. 15 • 12901 N. I-35, Ste. 1305B, Austin • www.resolution.vision

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY DR.

MOPAC

9 7 10 11

JOLLYVILLE RD.

MOPAC

PALM WAY

WALNUT CREEK PARK

GRACY FARMS LN.

GREAT HILLS TRL.

360

183

SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.

2222

ANDERSON LN.

CAPITAL OF TEXAS HWY.

EXECUTIVE CENTER DR.

TWIN OAKS DR.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 Life.Church The church hosts services on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and one-hour services on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. There are also links on the church’s website to attend live services virtually. • Opened June 23 • 13609 N. I-35, Austin • www.life.church 3 Five Below The store sells toys, games, snacks, room decor, beauty products, fitness equipment and more, according to its website.

Now open

1 Texas ABA Centers The center offers applied behavior analysis to children with autism using positive reinforcement. The organization offers autism diagnosis and testing, child, teen and in-home applied behavior analysis therapy, and early autism intervention, as stated on its website. • Opened Oct. 9 • 3724 Executive Center Drive, Ste. G10, Austin • www.texasabacenters.com

Coming soon

8 Bumpsuit The business will fill the 3,000-square-foot space previously occupied by the Skims workshop in Domain Northside. The store will sell intimates, shapewear, loungewear, healing compression wear, occasion wear for events and baby showers, and more. • Opening in November

LET’SMAKE AUSTIN BETTER, TOGETHER!

IT’S YOUR TIME Find Your Future With ACC

SCAN TO START SUBMITTING YOUR SERVICE REQUESTS TODAY!

austincc.edu

Paige S.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

• 11700 Domain Blvd., Ste. 120, Austin • www.bumpsuit.co

Now open

9 Paris Baguette The menu includes cakes, pastries, savory baked goods, salads, sandwiches and wraps. The cafe is projected to have 1,000 locations across the United States by 2030, according to its website. • Opening in April • 12901 N. I-35, Bldg. 8, Ste. 800, Austin • www.parisbaguette.com 10 Liuyishou Hot Pot The business features an all-you can-eat hotpot experience with dishes such as squid ink fried pork, lamb skewers and beef tripe. • Opening in April • 12901 N. I-35, Bldg. 8, Ste. 800, Austin • www.liuyishouna.com 11 Fresh International Market The company was founded in Michigan in 2011 by Bowen Kou, according to the company’s website, and currently has nine locations. The market imports products from

14 Padel39 The business offers six padel courts with viewing and socializing areas, a lounge area, locker rooms and showers, an outdoor warm-up area, an indoor cool-down area, and a bar and restaurant open to the public. • Opened mid-September • 2510 Rutland Drive, Austin • www.padel39.com

16 HissyFit The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner entrees including cinnamon rolls, breakfast bowls, and specialty sandwiches and salads. In addition to food, the business serves coffee, juices and cocktails. • Opened Oct. 18 • 9761 Great Hills Trail, Ste. B, Austin • www.hissyfitatx.com

over 28 countries. • Opening in April • 12901 N. I-35, Bldg. 8, Ste. 800, Austin • www.freshimarket.com

Relocations

17 Concordia University Texas On Sept. 16 the university named Provost and Executive Vice President Kristi Kirk as its next president and CEO. Kirk will become the first woman to lead the college. • 11400 Concordia University Drive, Austin • www.concordia.edu

development with retail space, multifamily units and hotel rooms. Austin City Council approved zoning changes for the property in September. • 2700 Gracy Farms Lane, Austin • www.livestudiodomain.com 15 Sammy’s House The nonprofit celebrated its 25th anniversary Oct. 15. It was founded in 1999 by Isabel Huerta and provides services to children and young adults who are medically fragile or developmentally delayed. The organization offers day programs, weekend programs and summer programs with a play-based curriculum prioritizing inclusion for children of all abilities. • 2415 Twin Oaks Drive, Austin • www.sammyshouse.org

12 Texas Thrift The store was originally located at 5319 N. I-35, Austin before moving to 8740 Research Blvd., Austin. The business sells used clothing, furniture, accessories and housewares. • Opened Sept. 9 • 8740 Research Blvd., Austin • www.buythrift.com

Closings

18 Forever 21 The clothing, shoes and accessory business closed after 14 years of serving The Domain shoppers. • Closed in September • 3409 Esperanza Crossing, Ste. 110, Austin • www.forever21.com

In the news

13 Studio Domain Apartments The apartments are set to be turned into a mixed-use

OPEN HEARTS, OPEN MINDS Our accredited preschool is a loving and inclusive community creating foundational experiences for children and families to positively impact the world.

Open House Nov. 6 at 9 am

8134 Mesa Drive • 512-345-3040 • stmatthewsschoolaustin.com

NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Government

Council reverses Austin shelter closure plans Austin leaders are seeking to indefinitely continue operations at a 300-bed homeless shelter, reversing course from the facility’s planned closure. What’s happening Last year, an east side convention center ware- house was converted into a shelter to boost local capacity. It’s taken in more than 1,000 people since last August at the lowest annual per-bed cost of four city-funded shelter facilities. Earlier this year, City Council voted to ramp down and shutter the shelter by March 2025. But in September, a proposal from Mayor Kirk Watson was approved to maintain the “critical” site as the city searches for new shelter options. “Those who are experiencing homelessness cannot wait for inaction,” Watson said. Homeless Strategy Officer David Gray said the Marshalling Yard is now a key piece of Austin’s work

Task force planning Austin climate bond Voters in Austin will likely be weighing a climate-centered bond package by 2026, and its development is underway. The big picture The volunteer 2026 Bond Election Advi- sory Task Force was created this summer to oversee the bond framework, part of a broader “comprehensive climate implemen- tation program” City Council is pursuing. The task force will meet for the first time Oct. 21, after press time, and its final project recommendations are due next July. Those could include land purchases, infrastructure updates, conservation initiatives and more. Council also voted on Sept. 26 to plan for topics like children’s play areas, homeless shelter and housing, and municipal building upgrades.

The temporary city shelter has served more than 1,000 clients since opening last August. Marshalling Yard shelter outcomes

Negative exit*: 107 Exit to housing: 172 Exit to unknown destination: 485

*NOTE: NEGATIVE EXITS CAN INCLUDE A RETURN TO HOMELESSNESS, HOSPITALIZATION, COMMITMENT TO A SUBSTANCE USE OR LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY, AND CRIMINAL ACTIVITY.

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

addressing homelessness and helps with client intake at other city-owned shelters that would’ve been cut off with the facility’s closure. The Marshalling Yard’s 300 beds represent almost 18% of the nearly 1,400 shelter beds around Austin. One year of operations was initially budgeted at $9.14 million, with $500,000 more later dedicated to run it through March 2025. Money was pulled from Austin’s federal COVID-19 relief funds. Watson’s resolution directed city staff to find money outside Austin’s homeless services budget to continue operations.

with PAE for enlarged prostate

Are you missing out on life because of frequent bathroom trips, sleep problems, and discomfort from BPH? Fix it now with PAE.

Complete a survey now at ausrad.com/pae. PROSTATE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (PAE) is a nonsurgical, leading-edge treatment for enlarged prostate (BPH) that: • Preserves much of the prostate • Has a quick recovery period • Has a low risk of incontinence and sexual side effects And greater than 90% of patients see significant improvement in symptoms!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ELLE BENT, HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON

Owners now required to microchip pets Pet owners in Austin are now required to ensure their animals are microchipped under new city policy, following the approval of an Austin City Council ordinance Sept. 26. The mandate applies for pets ages 4 months and older. Pet owners must keep current microchip registration for all their animals and update that information if they move or if a pet changes owners. The new requirement doesn’t come with any formal penalties for non-compliance. Any owners found to have pets without microchips will receive educational mate- rials about the process from the Animal Services Office. The Austin Animal Center currently provides free microchipping services and pet ID tags during business hours.

Central Health budget passes with new tax rate Travis County commissioners authorized an $888.7 million budget for Central Health’s 2024-25 fiscal year, which includes a tax rate increase. Beginning Oct. 1, residents will see a 6.5% increase in their Central Health property tax rate. For the average Travis County homeowner, the new tax rate of $0.107969 per $100 valuation will result in an estimated annual tax increase of $66. Home- owners can expect to pay around $544 in property taxes to Central Health. The reason In recent years, the district launched its seven-year Healthcare Equity Plan—a nearly $700 million initiative to invest in more direct care methods and clinics. With the approved new tax rate, this year’s bud- get saw a $58.2 million increase in funding, totaling $353.5 million, outlined for these direct health care

Tax impact

Fiscal year

2023-24

2024-25

Average taxable homestead value

$475,286

$504,003

Tax rate per $100 valuation

$0.100692

$0.107969

Estimated tax bill

$478.57

$544.17

SOURCE: CENTRAL HEALTH/COMMUNITY IMPACT

services for FY 2024-25. Although the hospital district’s budget was approved unanimously, commissioners impressed upon Central Health leadership the need for greater transparency, again calling out the annual $35 million financial arrangement with Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin as well as a recent clash with its clinical partner CommUnityCare. Moving forward, Central Health will provide quarterly updates to commissioners.

NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

TEXASONCOLOGY.COM

EXPERT BREAST CARE RIGHT HERE IN AUSTIN

When a lump is found or you are diagnosed with a breast condition, our team of breast care experts is right here with leading edge surgical approaches, genetic risk evaluation, diagnostics, and advanced treatments for both non-cancerous and cancerous conditions. Our multidisciplinary team includes dedicated breast surgeons and renowned oncologists who are experts in providing integrated, comprehensive care. With more than 20 locations in the Austin area, we provide expert breast care that keeps you close to family and friends.

1.888.864.4226

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON & HANNAH NORTON

Austin-area districts see uptick in school threats Local districts have seen an uptick in stu- dent-made threats against schools since the start of the academic year, Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura said. Diving in deeper Ocials with several local districts held a press conference Sept. 20 to address these threats. AISD is one of many Austin-metro school districts that have arrested students for making threats. Accord- ing to Travis County District Attorney José Garza, there are at least 30 cases pending in the DA oce related to these threats. AISD Police Chief Wayne Sneed said that all threats will be investigated and pursued, regardless of when they occur. Law enforcement agencies are working late hours to investigate, putting a weight on their resources, Segura said. For both adults and juveniles, if there

Students can now view automatic school acceptance

“Many of us are running decit budgets at this moment and so this additional

cost is something that isn’t budgeted for. But, we have to ensure that our ocers are paid to do this very important work.” MATIAS SEGURA, AUSTIN ISD SUPERINTENDENT

Texas high school students can now see which of the state’s public universities would accept them before they submit college appli- cations, state ocials announced Oct. 11. Students who submit academic infor- mation—like their grade point average, class rank and standardized test scores—to the state’s new Direct Admissions portal will receive a list of where they qualify for automatic acceptance, according to a news release. Thirty-one of Texas’ 37 public universities participate in the program. Students can begin using Direct Admis- sions at the end of their junior year. Once a student receives their admissions list, they must still submit an application.

is probable cause to believe they committed a crime, Garza said they will be arrested. The juvenile arrest process, however, diers. After a juvenile is detained, a detention hearing is held to determine probable cause, risk to the community is assessed and a decision is made on whether to continue detaining the juvenile. Garza said juveniles are also entitled to detention hearings every 10 days. Ocials have asked parents to talk to their children about responsible social media use and making inappropriate jokes.

Unmatched Academic Results Come tour a campus and see for yourself!

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence.

Avery Ranch (PS–G8) (512) 341-8000 15101 Avery Ranch Boulevard, Austin Round Rock (PS–G1) (512) 255-8844 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock Spicewood Springs (PS–K) (512) 258-1299 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

NORTH NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Real estate

Home sales increased almost 130% year over year for ZIP code 78729, according to Unlock MLS data. Residential market data

Homes sold

September 2023

September 2024

-20%

+128.57%

+47.06%

-23.81%

-28%

45 TOLL

78727

78729

78750

78758

78759

78729

620

MOPAC

183

Median home sales price

78727

78750

78759

September

2023

2024

78758

360

$469,500 $463,000 $702,000 $426,250 $663,000

$565,250 $388,475 $629,000 $477,500 $575,000

78727

2222

78729

78750

78758

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 512-454-7636 WWW.ABOR.COM

78759

Average days on market

North-Northwest Austin

+12.8%

-37.84%

+17.31%

+18.52%

+10.42%

September

2023

2024

147

112

New listings

101

Closed sales

78727

78729

78750

78758

78759

Homes under contract

Homes sold by price point in September

Months of inventory

3.2

3.9

78727

78729

78750

78758

78759

- -

5 5 6 7 2

2 6 2 6 2

$900,000+

Price per square foot

$700,000-$899,999

$310 $289

9 7

5 6 4

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

Active listings

292

358

<$299,999

Expand your child’s potential at the #1 School District in Texas!

Grades K–12

Prospective Parent Open Enrollment Kickoff Event October 23 at 6 p.m.

RSVP Now!

enrollBASISTX.com

165 N. Lakeline Blvd. Cedar Park, TX 78613 1217 S. 10th St. Pflugerville, TX 78660 BASIS Austin BASIS Cedar Park BASIS Pflugerville 1605 Kramer Ln. Austin, TX 78758

This Pedestrian Safety Month, the Mobility Authority wants to help you stay two steps ahead. Use these tips to keep walkers, runners and cyclists safe.

MOTORISTS

PEDESTRIANS

• Stay alert at intersections for pedestrians. • Slow down in neighborhoods and school zones. • Avoid distractions like cell phones to stay focused. • Leave space between your car and the crosswalk at stops.

• Look both ways and make eye contact before crossing. • Cross at corners and follow signals. • Walk facing traffic if there is no sidewalk. • Wear high-visibility clothing.

MORE THAN MILES

www.MobilityAuthority.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Development

BY GRACE DICKENS

Apartment site near The Domain slated for redevelopment

Plans are in motion to turn a Domain-area apartment complex into a high density, mixed-use development with retail space, multifamily units and hotel rooms after Austin City Council approved zoning changes for the property in September. In a nutshell Situated on the property in question is Studio Domain, an apartment complex on 3.07 acres at 2700 Gracy Farms Lane, Austin. Prior to its change in use earlier this spring, the site was home to an Extended Stay America hotel, accord- ing to city development documents. The approved rezoning request from construc- tion company Krea indicates plans to repurpose the plot of land for a mixed-use development with 350 multifamily housing units and 210 hotel rooms. Additionally, the plans call for 20,000 square feet of ground-oor retail space. Diving in deeper Per the zoning documents, the rezoning and future land use map amendments approved by City Council on Sept. 12 converted the property from a mixed-use “neighborhood residential subdistrict” to a high-density “commercial mixed- use midway zone subdistrict.” Each of these subdistricts are part of the North Burnet-Gateway Regulating Plan, intended to guide development in the area. At its core, this change enables developers to increase building density on the property and have it act as a bridge between residential areas surrounding The Domain and commercial activity within The Domain, according to the zoning documents.

MOPAC

The proposed project

350 multifamily units

20K square feet of ground- oor retail space 210 hotel rooms

Gracy Farms Retail Center

Project site (currently Studio Domain apartments)

Building height

New height restriction 350 ft.

The Domain Tower 2 308 ft.

Existing height restriction 60 ft.

SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

directly to the Gracy Farms Retail Center housing Phoebe’s Diner, Taco Deli and more. More information on site plans, a redevelop- ment timeline or other details about the redevel- opment were not available as of press time. Property owner Krea and its representative Drenner Group did not respond to requests for comment as of publication.

The lot’s previous zoning allowed up to 60-foot high buildings, but the updated zoning permitted under the North Burnet-Gateway plan permits up to 350-foot high buildings, per the development documents. For comparison, the tallest building in The Domain is Tower 2, standing at 308 feet and 24 stories, according to developers Stonelake Capital Partners. The 2700 Gracy Farms Lane site connects

Relieve muscle, bone, and joint pain with the collaborative efforts of our Orthopedics and Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine care teams. Get back in motion

• Most fractures & injuries • On-site radiology

• Surgical & non-surgical options • All ages seen: children to adults

Book now at ARCorthopedics.com

NORTH NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Real estate

BY GRACE DICKENS

IBM overtakes Meta’s oce space

Project to restore Old Lampasas Dam kicks o in October

Stay tuned

Meta’s footprint in Austin has been shrinking for the past few years, as the company seeks to sublease the 600,000-square-foot building at Sixth and Guadalupe it committed to in 2021. IBM will assume control of The Domain lease Jan. 1, 2026, after which IBM employees will make the transition to the new space, per the IBM statement.

In 2026, IBM will take over 320,000 square feet of oce space in The Domain currently occupied by Facebook’s parent company, Meta, IBM ocials conrmed Sept. 5. This move from IBM comes after the company terminated a lease agreement with OneTerra, a 507,000-square-foot oce development in Domain Northside once intended to become the new Austin hub for IBM employees. OneTerra is a project planned by Hines, a global real estate and property manager. IBM was slated as an anchor tenant for the development in June 2023, but following the lease termination, IBM ocials conrmed Hines is in active conversations with other potential tenants. “Hines and IBM maintain a strong, positive relationship and look forward to continuing our work on other strategic partnerships, both now and in the future,” IBM ocials

After being damaged by a tropical storm more than 15 years ago, repairs are set to begin on Old Lampasas Dam in the Spicewood Springs area Oct. 21, after press time. The $14.9 million project will modernize the dam to reduce the risk of downstream ooding, help prevent dam erosion, improve Bull Creek water quality downstream and maintain habitat for the Jollyville Plateau salamander. Improvements include replacing the damaged outlet pipe, modifying the embankment, installing new early warning systems for oods, improving the spillway and relocating a wastewater line, according to the Austin’s Capital Delivery Services Department project webpage. What to expect Parts of the trail will be closed during construc- tion, including the former maintenance drive portion on the west side of the dam, said Andrés Cantú, CDS marketing supervisor, in an email.

UPPER BULL CREEK GREENBELT TRL.

Old Lampasas Dam

MOPAC

GAULT LN.

SCOTLAND WELL DR.

IBM oce space

LOCKLEVEN LOOP

GARAGE ACCESS RD.

SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.

The $14.9 million project will modernize the dam to reduce the risk of downstream ooding.

“Austin is an extraordinary ... center of talent innovation, and IBM remains committed to investing in new experiences for our clients and employees in this market.” IBM OFFICIALS SAID IN A STATEMENT

A S

RENDERING COURTESY AUSTIN CAPITAL DELIVERY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Next steps The project is expected to begin Oct. 21 and last 18 months, according to Cantú and a Sept. 17 presen- tation from Austin’s CDS department. Community members are encouraged to sign up at www.bit.ly/3UkcTHk to receive project updates.

Although work hours are from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., lane closures will only be permitted from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on weekdays, and neighborhoods will be notied in advance of any weekend work, Cantú said. A mes- sage board and speed trailer will also be stationed along Spicewood Springs Road to provide updates on construction activities.

said in a statement. While the OneTerra space didn’t pan out, an additional lease from IBM for 50,000 square feet was announced in January of this year for Parmer Impact Labs, located in Parmer Austin.

HYMEADOW 12611 Hymeadow (512) 506-8401

NORTH 620 10601 N FM 620 (512) 506-8316

ARBORETUM 10515 North Mopac Expressway (512) 342-6893

The Domain gains luxury retailers, green space From the cover

The big picture

New Domain offerings 1 Versace: opened Jan. 2024 2 Burberry: opened March 2024 3 Psycho Bunny: opened April 2024 4 IKEA Design Center: opened June 2024 5 Freebird: opened Sept. 2024 6 Veronica Beard: opened Sept. 2024 7 Sixty Vines: opened Oct. 2024 8 The Webster: opened Oct. 2024 9 Agave Park: opening Nov. 2024 10 Century Oaks Park: opening Nov. 2024 11 Fogueira Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse: opening Nov. 2024 12 Activate Games: opening Dec. 2024 13 Toastique: opening Dec. 2024 14 Zimmerman: opening Dec. 2024 15 Zadok Jewelers: opening Jan. 2025 16 Balenciaga: opening by 2025 17 Dior: opening by 2025

MOPAC

The Domain ocials announced in August 2023 that renovations across the property would take place throughout 2024 and 2025, including new green space areas and building facade updates. Further planned renovations include modernizing bathrooms, adding a private nursing lounge, and repairing tile work around lamps and clock posts. Amidst these ongoing renovations, eight retailers have opened at the center this year, with four set to open by the end of this year and at least three more by 2025. Most of the new oerings are luxury retailers and join The Domain’s portfolio of other luxury brands, such as Gucci, Tiany and Co., and Saint Laurent, which are currently the brands’ only Austin-area stores. Monica Esparza, director of marketing at The Domain, said the Austin market has been a hotspot for luxury brands wanting to be in the area. “We have brands that are rst to market; we have brands that are unique to The Domain,” Esparza said. “We are transforming, but it’s all for the better and all for our shoppers’ demands.”

1 8

2 6 14 15

CENTURY OAKS TERRACE

3 4

AMY DONOVAN PLAZA

MOPAC

SOURCE: THE DOMAINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Zooming in

Many of the luxury retailers are located along Century Oaks Terrace, which Esparza said have been situated in this area since The Domain first opened. “We did have an area that was mainly for luxury down by the Neiman Marcus end, and it’s just kind of grown from there,” Esparza said. “Leasing may have a specific strategy for that, but it also just kind of aligned with retailers that are either no longer with us or we relocated.”

One of The Domain’s ongoing projects is a series of architectural renovations, which include remov- ing the canopies above storefronts to raise building facades and updating storefront textures with marble, stone and wood. While the renovations are propertywide, Esparza said the center wanted a more cohesive, modern and elevated look among the luxury retailers as more of them continue to open.

Renovations include updates to storefront textures with marble, stone and wood.

RENDERING COURTESY OF THE DOMAIN

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

In their own words

What else?

“We always look for three factors when building our restaurants: We have to have a good retail presence, a business presence, and there has to be a good area where there are homes. That’s why The Domain makes so much sense for us. With the other shopping, it becomes a destination for people to come out to.”

In February, Austin City Council approved a rezoning development request to allow The Domain to build taller, denser buildings. The changes allow for about 46.7 acres of land within the center to be redeveloped, which could lead to additional shopping, residential, hotel, industrial and office space, per city documents. The approved request states that for future redevelopment: • Buildings can be built up to 42 stories high. • There are no limitations on the maximum number of dwelling units. • The floor-to-area ratio, or measure of a development’s density, was increased to 12:1. While Domain officials were unable to comment on potential leasing activity, including residential or office space plans, due to property owner Simon Malls’ corporate policy, Esparza said The Domain is “getting better” with the addition of new brands. “I know there’s a stigma that the malls are dying, but actually, brick- and-mortar shopping is thriving,” Esparza said. “Simon had a record year last year for sales, passing pre- and post-COVID numbers. So consumers really love shopping in real life with family and friends; they crave that in-person connection. They like the immediate gratification of shopping in stores.”

Retailers such as luxury footwear brand Freebird are finding success in mixed-use developments, said Freebird Area Director Piper Livingston. The brand has another location on South Congress, but its Domain store features a bar and music stage. “I think a big part of what we were missing on South Congress was that interaction, and I think that’s what The Domain customer really loves,” Livingston said. “Being able to make a full space that meets retail, [a] bar and live music, is exactly what we thought the local Austin customer was looking for.” The last four Sixty Vines openings have also been in mixed-use developments, Johnson said.

KRISTOPHER JOHNSON, DIRECTOR OF NEW RESTAURANTS FOR SIXTY VINES

“I think that there’s a little more support in [opening] in a spot like this; things are a little more streamlined,” Johnson said. “Overall, I think I prefer doing multiuse. I think it just lends itself a little bit easier to what we do.”

The Domain’s green space renovations will feature:

Another detail

The other component of The Domain’s reno- vation project is its green-space renovations of Century Oaks Park, which will add 22,200 square feet of green space to the center, and Agave Park, which will add 5,857 square feet. The opening of The Domain Farmers Market last November, held at the south end of the center, has also brought more outdoor opportunities for Domain shoppers, Esparza said. “The green space renovations were actually already in the works prior to the launch of the farmers market, but we love presenting a wide range of products and price points for our dedi- cated Domain shoppers,” Esparza said. “That has really been enhanced by the farmers market.”

28,057 sq. ft. of added green space

New landscaping

Terraced seating

Lawn space with live music stage at Century Oaks Park

Valet parking area at Agave Park

SOURCE: THE DOMAIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

An Investment in Today's Texas Teachers is an Investment in Tomorrow's Workforce Stay Informed, Advocate, and Get Involved.

RaiseYourHandTexas.org

Paid by Raise Your Hand Texas

NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

New! A Community Impact Print + Digital Advertising Package

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY DACIA GARCIA

such as Hindustani Classical and devotional music. • Nov. 9, 3 p.m. • $10 (admission) • Covenant United Methodist Church, 4410 Duval Road, Austin • www.kaladarpan.org Mega Challah Bake Presented by Chabad of Austin, the event is open to all women in the community and the event organizers expect over 200 women to be in attendance. • Nov. 10, 6:30 p.m. • $25 (purchased before Nov. 7), $29 (purchased at the door) • Chabad of Austin, 3500 Hyridge Drive, Austin • https://bit.ly/3TLnBGv Austin Auto Festival Produced by Austin Automobile Dealers Association, the event will feature vehicles of all types alongside local food options, family-friendly entertainment and interactive games. Attendees can participate in a Mario Kart showdown, meet Austin FC players and try out racing simulators. • Nov. 16-17, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. • Free (ages 5 and under), $8-$10 (ages 6-12), $10 (seniors and military), $15-$18 (ages 13 and up) • Q2 Stadium, 10414 Mc Kalla Place, Austin • www.austinautofest.com

November

Austin Tequila Fest Austin Tequila Society will host its annual festival where attendees can taste a variety of agave-based spirits, watch Ballet Folklorico and Mariachi Guadalajara performances, get their faces painted, and enjoy tacos from Casa Chapala. • Nov. 2, 6-10 p.m. • $60 (admission per person with groups of four or more), $65 (admission per person) • Casa Chapala Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar, 9041 UnHalloween Celebration Attendees can expect shopping, entertainment, workshops and more. Halloween costumes and trick-or- treating bags are encouraged. • Nov. 9, noon-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Nature’s Treasures, 11055 N. I-35, Austin • www.364unhalloweens.com India Music Festival Kala Darpan will host its signature music festival to showcase local aspiring music talent in various genres, Research Blvd., Ste. 100, Austin • www.austintequilafestival.com

Austin Celtic Festival and Highland Games

The family-friendly event is celebrating its 28th year with Celtic music, dancing, highland games, workshops in music, lectures, scotch tastings and a Celtic animal parade. Tickets are only available for purchase online. • Nov. 2: noon-7 p.m., Nov. 3: noon-6 p.m. • Free (ages 5 and under), $12 (ages 6-16) $25 (ages 17 and up), $35 (whiskey tasting) • Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive, Austin • www.austincelticfestival.com

CELEBRATE WITH US ZILKER PARK DEC. 10-23, 2024 Get your tickets today!

NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Business

BY DACIA GARCIA

Coffee guide

2024

Austin

Bullseye Bakery The family-run bakery and cafe features house-made pastries and snacks with a full coffee, espresso and tea bar plus a covered patio. • Must-try menu items: Cinnamon Roll, $3; Mocha coffee, $5 • Wed.-Fri. 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. • 2007 Kramer Lane, Ste. 105, Austin • www.bullseyebakery.com Cafe Java The cafe serves breakfast dishes such as omelets, hashbrowns and toast. Its coffee menu has specialty coffees and traditional coffee drinks. • Must-try menu items: Whole Lotta Love Latte, $5.29; Caramel Con Panna, $4.49 • Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. • 11900 Metric Blvd., Ste. K, Austin • www.thecafejava.com Cure Bakery Owned by husband-and-wife duo Sam and John Bayizitlioglu, the business features iced, hot and frozen coffee-based drinks including a frozen chai tea latte. • Must-try menu items: Brown Sugar Cinnamon Breve Latte, $4.95; Breakfast Sandwich, $6.30 • Tue.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. • 13624 Research Blvd., Austin • www.instagram.com/curebakerycoffee Dame Café The coffee truck’s menu consists of traditional coffee, specialty drinks such as a Mexican chocolate latte and blended coffee drinks. The truck features seasonal drinks as well. • Must-try menu items: Swirl Brew, $5; Canela Latte, $4.50 • Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Emerald Tavern Games and Cafe Founded in 2013, the cafe and game store offers coffee, food, alcoholic drinks and a variety of board games available for rent or purchase. Customers can enjoy a competitive game while partaking in a cup of joe. • Must-try menu items: The Doctor, $6; London Fog, $4 • Tue.-Thu. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-midnight, Sat. 10 • 5002 Hamilton Lane, Austin • www.damecafecoffee.com

Austin Grind The shop offers hot and cold coffees, blended drinks and specialty teas. In addition to coffee, pastries and breads from local bakers, breakfast sandwiches, breakfast tacos and soup are available. The business has an indoor seating area and a drive-thru.

• Must-try menu items: Austin 360 Milkshake, $9.73; coffee ice cream, $6.48 • Mon.-Fri. 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. • 4005 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. A, Austin • www.austingrind.com

• Must-try menu items: Pumpkin Pie Latte, price not provided; Maple Bourbon Matcha, price not provided • Every day 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

herbal leaves for teas are directly sourced from Vietnam, according to the business’ website. • Must-try menu items: Pandan Coffee, $6.99;

• 10727 Domain Drive, Austin • www.mediciroasting.com

Strawberry Croffle, $6.79 • Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

• 1701 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. 105, Austin • www.instagram.com/sipmunchcafe

Mr. Brew Coffee The newly-opened drive-thru coffee shop offers classics such as lattes, mochas and cold brew as well as specialty coffee with flavors such as caramel, dark chocolate and macadamia. • Must-try menu items: Cup of Gold, $4.15; ATX, $5.15 • Mon.-Fri. 6 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. • 8606 Research Blvd., Austin • www.mrbrewcoffee.com Rocket Coffee ATX The space-themed coffee shop has a large section of indoor and patio seating. Individuals can look forward to a classic coffee drink or switch it up with a specialty coffee including a Blast Off cold brew and an Andromeda latte. • Must-try menu item: Star Light Star Bright iced latte, $4.50 • Mon.-Fri. 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. • 8701 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. 2127, Austin • www.rocketcoffeetx.com Sip Munch Cafe The Vietnamese cafe presents customers with options of milk tea, Vietnamese coffee, fruit teas, smoothies, slushies, sugarcane drinks and more. All coffee and

Summer Moon Coffee The shop offers all of the traditional espresso-based drinks as well as its signature Moon Milk sweet cream- based beverages, hot or iced. • Must-try menu items: Summer Moon Latte, $5; Hand Pie, $5.50 • Mon.-Fri. 6 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tech Ridge: 12901 N. I-35, Bldg. 20, Ste. 2001, Austin; The Domain: 11005 Burnet Road, Ste. 112, Austin • www.summermooncoffee.com Turnstile Coffee Shop, Bar and Restaurant This business is a one-stop-shop for caffeine, drinks and a bite. It offers pastries and house-made breakfast tacos in the morning, small appetizers and full entrees for lunch and dinner. Customers can find classic coffee such as a cortado or indulge in a coffee cocktail. • Must-try menu items: Honey Lavender Latte, price not provided; Superfood Migas Breakfast Taco, $4.75 • Mon.-Sat. 7:30 a.m.-midnight, Sun. 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m.

a.m.-midnight, Sun. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. • 9012 Research Blvd., Ste. C1, Austin • www.emeraldtaverngames.com

Medici Roasting Owners Michael and Alison Vaclav opened the first location in 2006. The business menu mostly consists of espressos, cold brew and other traditional drinks. There is an indoor seating area as well as prepackaged snacks and drinks for those on the go.

• 10025 Burnet Road, Austin • www.turnstilebrews.com This list is not comprehensive.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Dining

BY DACIA GARCIA

Nguyen is preparing the crunchy skin baked catsh ($50) for customers as part of the item’s tableside service.

The wagyu beef hot stone pho ($28) is a customer favorite, owner Dao Nguyen said.

PHOTOS BY DACIA GARCIACOMMUNITY IMPACT

The One Pho oers worlds of avor with cuisine With special shipments of leaves from Hawaii and wagyu beef from Dallas, The One Pho pres- ents a Vietnamese and Asian fusion menu with something for every taste palette. The menu has grown by over 30 items since its opening in July 2023, doubling the initial variety oered. The background

The One Pho oers fresh sugarcane juice ($5.75) made in-house.

can’t be found anywhere else in the city, such as the hot stone pho, crunchy skin baked catsh, the ve-course beef meal and the beef in Hawaiian betel leaves. “Most typical Asian restaurants are mom-and- pop places so they oer what they cook at home or what they are good at, but the reason I wanted to open a pho place here is I wanted to bring the idea of eating hot pho in a hot stone bowl,” Nguyen said. What’s special about it? Nguyen said many menu items have been added due to conversations he’s had with customers. Both the crunchy skin baked catsh and the ve course beef meal were dishes people asked for and they have since been a huge hit, Nguyen said.

A K E R

Owner Dao Nguyen is no stranger to the restau- rant business, having previously owned a Cajun seafood restaurant in Minnesota before moving to Austin a little over two years ago. At The One Pho, everything on the menu is freshly made by the restaurant’s sta who arrive at 9:30 a.m. everyday to prepare ingredients for the day. Nguyen said the restaurant serves dishes that

10721 Research Blvd., Ste. 110, Austin www.theonepho.com

NORTH NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Nonpro t

BY DACIA GARCIA

Foster Village creates ‘community beyond the system’ for families Since 2016, Foster Village has created a support- ive community for Austin families interacting with the child welfare system. The inspiration CEO and founder Chrystal Smith said the organization was born out of her own family’s experience as a licensed foster home. “There were a lot of gaps in the system for the kids and a lack of support for the caregivers,” Smith said. “We got together with other foster parents in the community and tried to mobilize the community to come alongside these kids and families and help bridge the gaps.” What’s special about it? Foster Village oers a variety of physical and mental resources to families, including its resource centers. Additionally, caregivers are connected with ongoing therapeutic support services oered through the organization’s monthly support gatherings and weekly programs. “Our slogan that we use is ‘community beyond the system,’” Smith said. “Foster Village serves as a community hub of support to ensure these kids and families have the lasting support that they need to move out of the system.” The impact Foster Village has served over 13,000 children in the greater Austin area since its founding and has provided over $8 million in direct support to children and families, Smith said.

The resource center oers children and caregivers a variety of supplies including clothing, car seats and beds.

PHOTOS COURTESY FOSTER VILLAGE

Austin

Dripping Springs

FITZHUGH CORNERS

A 12410 Limerick Ave., Austin; B 15400 Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs www.fostervillageaustin.org

CEO Chrystal Smith founded Foster Village in 2016 after witnessing the gaps in support for foster families.

you need to know about your community in 5 MINUTES

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM�NEWSLETTER

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16-17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32

communityimpact.com