Cedar Park - Far Northwest Austin Edition | March 2025

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

Cedar Park Far Northwest Austin Edition VOLUME 2, ISSUE 11 MARCH 20APRIL 16, 2025

2025 Camp Guide

Nonprots aid unhoused in Cedar Park

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Cedar Park and Williamson County have provided funding to local nonprots to help support unhoused and nancially struggling residents. However, nonprots and homelessness organizations say there are not enough resources in the area to meet the needs of unhoused residents, who are often unable to access shelter and transportation. When she was 16, Lindsay Kocen was homeless, living in her car and on the streets of Round Rock. Now, Kocen serves as the vice president of the Wilco Homeless Coalition, a nonprot dedicated to helping Williamson County residents who have fallen on hard times. “I was homeless in this area, too,” Kocen said. “It’s harder to nd, but it happens more than we like to think.”

CONTINUED ON 20

Leah Hargrave, executive director of The Charlie Center, oers advice to a resident.

CHLOE YOUNGCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

Subscribe to our free daily email newsletter!

Impacts: P. Terry’s Burger Stand celebrates 20 years in Austin area (Page 8)

Development: Cedar Park paves the way for a Trader Joe’s (Page 41)

u DESERVE A BRIGHTER TOMORROW

We’re Austin’s #1 Credit Union for a reason.

Since 1936, UFCU has been obsessed with one thing— our Members. Here, anyone can join, and everyone gets trusted guidance, personalized service, and a financial partner who puts you first.

Visit UFCU.org or a branch near you.

Lakeline Branch 13860 US-183, Austin TX, 78750

Membership subject to eligibility. Certain restrictions apply. Visit UFCU.org for more information. Federally insured by NCUA. Rankings based on NCUA data March 2024.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

F with a smile you can be proud of!

No Insurance? No Problem!

* NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $199! Become a new patient and get FREE teeth whitening for LIFE *Eligible for cavity free patients who complete any treatment requirements and maintain annual x-rays and biannual cleanings. We provide custom bleach trays and 1 tube of bleach per year. Upgrades available. Inquire for details. !

$1000 OFF Invisalign * *Eligible for the month of March Refer a friend and get coffee on us!

209 Denali Pass Ste B, Cedar Park, TX | www.cedarparkdental.com 512-782-0821 | Follow us on: BV Subject to credit approval

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

“ Doctors who see possibilities. That’s why Dell Children’s is my children’s hospital.

”

The nationally recognized pediatric cardiovascular team at Dell Children’s delivers advanced specialty care, including heart surgery for the tiniest babies. And your family never has to leave Austin for pediatric heart care, or for any of our other wide-ranging specialties. All of our doctors live here, and care here. 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

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 Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Jamie Moore Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Abigail Hines Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Schaer

Denise Seiler General Manager dseiler@ communityimpact.com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Austin Market President Travis Baker Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Gonzalez Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara

Steve Guntli Editor sguntli@ communityimpact.com

Beth Burton Account Executive bburton@ communityimpact.com

16225 Impact Way Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 CI Careers

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact cpfnews@communityimpact.com cpfads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

communityimpact.com/newsletter

JOIN US FOR LUNCH OR DINNER FULL BAR & HAPPY HOUR

CATERING SERVICES AVAILABLE

RESERVE YOUR TABLE! (512)284-7599

bellissimaaustintx | Web: bellissimatx | 8300 N FM 620, BLDG K, SUITE 200 AUSTIN, TX 78726

CEDAR PARK FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Impacts Cedar Park & Leander

183

2 Dumont Creamery & Cafe The dessert shop serves a range of ice cream flavors, including milkshakes and falooda—an ice cream-based dessert made with vermicelli. The business serves specialty coffee beverages, bubble tea, slushies, smoothies and lemonade. Pastries including cheese danishes and muffins are also available. The Indian- based franchise opened its first Austin-area store in Round Rock in December. • Opened Feb. 28 • 601 W. New Hope Drive, Ste. 106, Cedar Park • www.dumont.us 3 Pork Booty ATX Owned by Adrian and Sandra Villarroel, the food truck provides a menu filled with artisan charcoal barbecue. Entrees include a Leah Hawaiian Sandwich, Bourbon Brisket Sandwich and Pork Booty Loaded Fries with smoked roasted pork, aioli, barbecue sauce and melted mild cheddar cheese. • Opened Feb. 1 • The Crossover, 1717 Scottsdale Drive, Leander • www.porkbootyatx.com 4 RK Liquor Fine Wine & Spirits The liquor store opened at a new shopping center off Ronald Reagan Boulevard. The business sells a selection of fine wines, liquors, including bourbon and tequila, beers, seltzers and cigars. The 3,000-square-foot store features a walk-in fine wine room and a humidor. • Opened Jan. 22 • 14300 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Bldg. 2, Ste. 201 & 202, Leander • www.rkliquor.com 5 Don’t Tell Mama Tattoos The veteran-owned tattoo business is the first tattoo shop in Cedar Park. The business is owned by Brooke and James Dupper and offers all tattoo styles in addition to appointments and walk-ins daily. • Opened Jan. 1 • 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park • www.donttellmamatattoo.com

WHITETAIL PASS

183A TOLL

Cedar Park

SCOTTSDALE DR.

1 2

VISTA RIDGE BLVD.

183

ANDERSON MILL RD.

AVERY RANCH BLVD.

10 11

45 TOLL

620

TWIN CREEKS CLUB DR.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

training, team training, group classes, family workouts and at-home training programs. The company’s age- specific programming is created by Division-I sports coaches, and professional strength and conditioning coaches. • Opened Dec. 2 • 601 W. New Hope Drive, Ste. 102, Cedar Park • www.d1training.com/cedar-park

Now open

1 D1 Training The athletic training facility provides sports-specific and strength and conditioning training for athletes between the ages of 7 to 75. The business offers individual

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY DACIA GARCIA, STEVE GUNTLI & CHLOE YOUNG

Coming soon

Now open

Coming soon

6 Arwa Yemeni Coffee The new coffee shop will serve Yemeni coffee, teas and pastries. Menu items will include classic espresso-based beverages, including lattes, as well as traditional drinks like Sana'ani coffee and Adeni tea. Iced refreshers and smoothies will also be available. The Dallas-based company has a trailer off North Lamar Boulevard, and plans to open another location in the Mueller area this year. • Opening in April • 12301 W. Parmer Lane, Cedar Park • www.arwayemenicoffee.com

Relocations

10 Tiny Aquatics Co-owners Don Nguyen and Tran Phan opened the location in late January. The business’ original location is in Round Rock, which opened in 2020. The business sells plants, fish food, various fish, tank decor, aquarium tanks, aquarium cleaning equipment and more. • Opened Jan. 31 • 200 Buttercup Creek Blvd., Cedar Park • Facebook: Tiny Aquatics

12 Restart CBD The business launched in summer 2018 with a location in North Austin near The Domain. The company has a pick-up only location in Cedar Park at Progressive Insurance located at 13402 Anderson Mill Road. Founded by Sydney Torabi and her sister, Shayda Torabi, the business offers THC, THCA and CBD products as smokables, vapes, drinks, gummies and chocolates. • Opening mid-March • 12800 Anderson Mill Road, Ste. A1, Cedar Park • www.restartcbd.com Enovis The multibillion dollar life sciences company is expanding operations into Cedar Park, becoming the latest technology company to move to the area. The Cedar Park facility will be an expansion of the company’s Austin-based surgical division, and will allow Enovis to increase its manufacturing output. The Cedar Park facility will be Enovis’ fifth location in Texas, joining Austin, Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth. • Address TBD • www.enovis.com

7 Evoke: An Acton Academy The new campus relocated from its previous address in the Lake Travis area. A majority of the location’s renovations were completed by Feb. 1, and the team is still working on including converting the back porch into a learning space and modernizing the location’s bathrooms. The school is a K-8 science and art-focused school offering flexible schedule options from one to five day weekly routines. • 13204 Fawn Valley, Cedar Park • www.evokeacademy.org

In the news

and increased seating options. The club’s bar area has been enlarged to expand beer and cocktail options, and the upstairs patio can seat up to 60 people, with an additional 150 seats available inside, according to a news release. • Renovations completed in February • 3201 Twin Creeks Club Drive, Cedar Park • www.twincreeksclub.com 11 Over the Top Quilting The business celebrated its 10-year-anniversary at its Cedar Park brick-and-mortar, which opened in February 2015. The business was originally founded and operated by sisters Chris Wenz and Susan Rubino, but is currently undergoing ownership changes. • 200 Buttercup Creek Blvd., Ste. 111, Cedar Park • www.overthetopquilting.com

8 Smokey Mo’s BBQ Cypress Creek’s Smokey Mo’s BBQ has officially reopened for business after undergoing renovations. The location originally opened in 2008 and recently updated its counter experience, technology, pick-up stations and dining room. • Reopened March 6 • 1550 Cypress Creek Road, Cedar Park • www.smokeymosbbq.com 9 Twin Creeks Country Club The private club and golf course recently completed a redesign of the club’s restaurant, bar and lounge areas, including a completely redesigned aesthetic

We help visitors discover hidden gems and local favorites that make Cedar Park special. From events to eats, we’ve got them covered .

Scan the QR code and personalize your own adventure for free!

PLACES TO EAT >>

THINGS TO DO >>

UPCOMING EVENTS >>

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Impacts Far Northwest Austin

LoopDeco The company provides in-home and in-office removal for furniture, appliances and other home goods, and most items picked up are donated, resold or recycled. • Opened Feb. 1 • Services Greater Austin area • www.loopdeco.com

Now open

BRUSHY CREEK RD.

1 SafeSplash Swim School Located inside LA Fitness, the locally-owned franchise provides swimming lessons for all ages, from new swimmers to competitive athletes. • Opened Jan. 18 • 16600 RM 620, Round Rock • www.safesplash.com 2 Vinyl Brews The coffee shop opened inside The Water Tank Bar & Grill bar and serves craft coffee, espresso, cold drinks and pastries. • Opened Feb. 1 • 7309 McNeil Drive, Austin • www.instagram.com/the_water_tank 3 Sushi Express & Poke Bowl The restaurant serves a variety of sashimi, nigiri and tempura sushi rolls, poke bowls with tuna, salmon or chicken, soups, salads, bento boxes, and appetizers such as edamame, calamari and fried dumplings. • Opened in February

183A TOLL

GREAT OAKS DR.

620

AVERY RANCH BLVD.

LAKELINE BLVD.

Coming soon

LAKELINE MALL DR.

45 TOLL

4 Texas Girls School The tuition-free charter school for girls in grades 6-12 will feature hands-on, project-based, STEM-focused curriculum. • Opening in August

LAKE CREEK PKWY.

• 10321 Boulder Lane, Austin • www.texasgirlsschool.org

620

183

5 Brake and Tire Check The family owned and operated business, formerly known as Brake Check, offers brake repair and alignment services, oil changes and tire sales. • Opening early 2026 • 9220 W. Parmer Lane, Austin • www.brakecheck.com

620

SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.

DONA VILLA DR.

BOULDER LN.

• 9422 Anderson Mill Road, Austin • www.sushiexpresspokebowl.com

2222

MAP NOT TO SCALE

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR WILLIAMSON COUNTY RICK COFER

RICKCOFER.COM PRINCIPAL OFFICE: 602 W. 11 TH ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701 • 512-200-3801

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

In the news

Coming soon

Worth the trip

6 Yummi Tacos and More The family-operated business celebrated its 15th anniversary on March 15. The menu features tacos, bánh mi, burritos, boba and coffee, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. • 12518 Research Blvd., Austin • www.yummitaco.com 7 P. Terry’s Burger Stand The business is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, having opened its first location in 2005 in south Austin. There are now 35 locations across Austin, San Antonio and Houston serving burgers made with hormone- and antibiotic-free beef and chicken, hand- cut fries, milkshakes and breakfast items. • 13770 N. Hwy 183, Austin • www.pterrys.com

8 Alloy Personal Training Lakeline The franchised gym offers personal training sessions with a maximum of six people with one trainer. Sessions are personalized for clients to address individual needs, and client progress is monitored and checked monthly. • Opening in May • 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Ste. 600, Austin • www.alloyatx.com

Zoocade The hologram zoo and arcade is the first of its kind in the United States, featuring holographic animals and tunnels, adventure rooms and 30 arcade game options. • Opened in February • 11000 Middle Fiskville Road, Ste. A1, Austin • www.zoocade.com

BEWARE: Cedar Park & Far NW Austin Homeowners must now verify homestead exemptions every 5 years – or risk losing it.

Fun Fact: If you haven’t applied for your homestead, you can get refunds for the last 2 years! Thats $5,208 total saved!

QR Code?

Scan here or visit Ownwell.com/impact Monitor Your Homestead Exemption

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Education

BY SAM SCHAFFER, BROOKE SJOBERG & CHLOE YOUNG

5 education updates from Leander and Round Rock ISDs

1 Leander ISD approves 202526 calendar The Leander ISD board of trustees approved the academic calendar for the 2025-26 school year Feb. 13. School will start on Aug. 13, according to a draft of the calendar, and students and sta will see a number of holidays and breaks in the year, including:

2 RRISD’s surplus turns into $3.8M shortfall In January, Round Rock ISD administrators shared that the district was expecting a surplus budget for the 2024-25 school year after selling $9.3 million in district property. One month later, changes in how the district receives funding have upended that expectation. A Feb. 20 nancial update from the district shows a potential shortfall of $3.8 million. Chief Financial Ocer Dennis Covington said the change is mostly due to complex state funding changes, which means the district will once again pay recapture.

4 $7.17M limit set for Cedar Park HS work Leander ISD trustees set the guaranteed maximum price for the third phase of improvement projects at Cedar Park High School at $7.17 million. The board voted to set the limit Feb. 13 after discussing whether the number was still feasible after recent budget shortfalls were announced for the district. The GMP dictates how much money will be spent on certain improvements at CPHS. The third GMP is funded by the 2023 LISD bond authorization, according to the documents. 3 Superintendent’s contract extended The Round Rock ISD board of trustees voted to extend the contract of Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez through June 30, 2028, in a called meeting on Jan. 30. In addition to a contract extension, the board also approved a bonus of $21,333 to be paid to the superintendent. The contract extension does not come with a salary increase, according to the district.

2025

Sept. 1: student/sta holiday Sept. 22: sta development day (no school for students) Oct. 1617: student/sta holiday Oct. 20: sta development day Nov. 34: sta development day Nov. 2428: fall break Dec. 22Jan. 2: winter break

“We were expecting to get $1.5 million in that cost report and we’re going to get zero because they said they paid us more than we should have gotten last

year. In fact, we have to write them a check for $100,000 this year to settle our Medicaid from last year.”

2026

Jan. 5: sta development day Jan. 19: student/sta holiday Feb. 1213: student/sta holiday Feb. 16: sta development day March 1620: spring break March 23: sta development day April 3: student/sta holiday April 6: sta development day May 25: student/sta holiday May 29, will be the last day of school, according to the draft.

DENNIS COVINGTON, RRISD CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

5 Frontier Direct Care opens for LISD sta Primary care clinic Frontier Direct Care opened to Leander ISD sta members at 11840 Hero Way West in late January. While the company’s clinics are typically open to the public, the new Leander location exclusively serves LISD sta and their dependents.

183A TOLL

183

COMBINE AND SAVE? So you can focus on your day to day! Thank you!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CUT&SAVE! Benjamin Moore 8 oz. Color Samples TwoFREE Redeem in-store or usecode “CFSAMP25” during checkout on clementspaint.com . Only valid at Clement’s Paint. 1 redemption per customer. Coupon is single- use. Cannot be combined with other offers. Terms of and changes to this offer are subject to the sole discretion of Clement’s Paint. Valid until X/XX/XX 4/30/2025.

Austin’s Local Benjamin Moore Retailer Since 1986!

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

State

BY HANNAH NORTON

Texas Senate advances $1B education savings account proposal

The debate

“[The ESA funds] will possibly cover tuition, but it may not cover uniforms, transportation, lunch [or] books. So if the parents have this $10,000

In a 19-12 vote Feb. 5, Texas senators passed their rst bill of the 89th legislative session, Senate Bill 2. The proposal by Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, was sent to the House. SB 2 proposes spending $1 billion annually for education savings accounts, which families could use to help cover the costs of private education. About 100,000 students would qualify for the program, Creighton said. “Across Texas public schools, despite the hard work of our teachers that we value and respect so much and the billions of dollars we spend in our state budget, many students are feeling left behind,” Creighton said on the Senate oor. “That is unacceptable.” The voucher-like proposal, also known as school choice, is a top priority of Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Abbott declared education savings accounts an emergency item during his Feb. 2 State of the State address, allowing lawmakers to bypass a constitutional rule that generally prevents them from passing legislation during the rst 60 days of the session. The Texas Senate passed several education savings account bills in 2023, which were shot down by a coalition of House Democrats

but they can’t aord to make up the dierence, are they really eligible?” SEN. JOSÉ MENÉNDEZ, DSAN ANTONIO

Sen. Brandon Creighton, RConroe, discusses Senate Bill 2 during a Jan. 28 hearing.

“The message I would leave you with is: anything helps. There are thousands of families in Texas that are low-income or middle-

HANNAH NORTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

and Republicans from rural areas. Abbott has expressed condence the plan would make it to his desk this year after several pro-voucher Republicans were elected to the House in November. Rep. Brad Buckley, R-Salado, led a separate education savings account proposal, House Bill 3, on Feb. 20. HB 3 would give most participants a stipend equal to 85% of the state and local funds that public schools receive per student. This was about $12,800 during the 2022-23 school year, according to the Texas Education Agency. Neither measure had been scheduled for a House committee hearing as of Feb. 21.

income that are struggling to pay for private school out of pocket already.” NATHAN CUNNEEN, STATE DIRECTOR, AMERICAN FEDERATION FOR CHILDREN

Also of note

Senators also discussed public schools Feb. 5 after some Texans raised concerns during a Jan. 28 committee hearing that an education savings account program would divert money from public education. Creighton noted billions of new dollars for public schools were included in initial drafts of the 2026-27 budget. Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, asked Creighton for his “commitment that the next bill we’re going to see for education will be an investment in our teachers.” Creighton said that would be the case, adding that Abbott also deemed raising salaries for public school teachers an emergency priority during his State of the State address. During a Feb. 20 hearing, the Senate Education Committee unanimously approved SB 26, a nearly $5 billion proposal that would mandate raises for third- and fth-year teachers. The proposal was sent to the full Senate.

Breaking down the bill Senate Bill 2 would give families an annual stipend to spend on tuition, textbooks, transportation and other educational expenses, including: $10,000 annually for each private school student

Quick facts

Any school-age student in Texas could apply for the proposed ESA program.

Funds would be administered by the state comptroller.

annually for children with disabilities enrolled in a private school annually for homeschooled students

If applications exceed available funds, 80% of the money would go to low-income families and students with disabilities. SB 2 denes “low income” as a household with an annual income at or below 500% of the federal poverty line, or $160,750 per year for a family of four.

$11,500

$2,000

During the 2023-24 school year, the average cost of Texas private school tuition was: $10,965 for kindergarten-eighth grade $14,986 for high school

SOURCES: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCES: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE, TEXAS PRIVATE SCHOOLS ASSOCIATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Cedar Park enters Stage 3 water conservation On March 1, the city initiated Stage 3 water con- servation measures to begin March 31, which calls for a 20% reduction in overall water consumption, according to a news release. What it means

Survey shows Cedar Park business growth Cedar Park found that 95% of surveyed businesses were expanding while 5% were contracting. Chief Economic Development Officer Arthur Jackson presented data at a Feb. 27 meeting. The city held business retention meetings with 75 companies in 2024, and gathered data from 24 of those companies using a new reporting platform. A closer look The survey showed Cedar Park having a diverse array of businesses, with the largest industry being IT businesses, followed by construction and advanced manufacturing companies. Of the surveyed companies, 74% were small businesses with 1-49 employees.

watering. Residents will be restricted to watering their yards on one designated day per week, and can only water before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Something to note A temporary increase to the utility rate will be implemented March 31 for residents who do not adhere to the conservation measures, according to the city’s website.

Stage 3 water conservation measures call for residents to adhere to a strict schedule to reduce water consumption, particularly for outdoor

The Stage 3 watering schedule:

Mon.

Tues.

Weds.

Thurs.

Fri.

Sat.

Sun.

Homes with addresses ending in 1 or 3

Homes with addresses ending in 4, 6 and 8

Homes with addresses ending in 7, 8 and 9

Homes with addresses ending in 0 and 2

All commercial properties

SOURCE: CITY OF CEDAR PARK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

LIFETIME WARRANTY

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Cedar Park to install high visibility crosswalks The city of Cedar Park will install new high visibility crosswalks at its pedestrian crossings citywide in the next six months. The crosswalks are intended to improve safety in the city by making it easier for drivers to see pedestrians, city officials said. The details The $625,000 project will include the installa- tion of around 900 new crosswalks at about 550 intersections throughout Cedar Park. The city will first install the crosswalks at major roads, some of which have already received them, before moving on to neighborhoods. The high-visibility crosswalks will also be installed at pedestrian crossings that do not yet have crosswalks, many of which are in residential neighborhoods, said Stephen Hanuscin, assistant director of public works for Cedar Park.

Two intersections to receive traffic signals The city of Cedar Park will install new traffic signals at the intersections of New Hope Drive and Arrow Point Drive as well as Cottonwood Creek Trail and Medical Parkway. What happened Cedar Park City Council approved $67,020 in funding from the city’s 2022 General Obli- gation Transportation Bond for the signals’ design at a Feb. 27 meeting.

The new design The city will replace its standard crosswalks with high visibility crosswalks.

Transverse Crosswalk

High visibility Crosswalk

SOURCE: CITY OF CEDAR PARK

In their own words Council member Eric Boyce said some residents have been concerned about speeding. “Talking to some of my neighbors, they’re real excited that this might be one more way to get people to slow down,” Boyce said.

183A TOLL

ARROW POINT DR.

COTTONWOOD CREEK TRAIL

MEDICAL PKWY.

Protect Your Plants and Your Power PEC’s planting guide helps ensure safe, reliable electric service.

60’ from pole

40’ from pole

Gastroenterologist

25’ from pole

Gastroenterologist

Pad-Mounted Transformers

Small trees

Medium trees

Large trees

10’ from opening and 5’ from all other sides

Less than 25’ mature height

25-40’ mature height

Taller than 40’ mature height

Gastroenterologist

When making plans for your plants, it’s easy to overlook the impact they could have on your electric service. PEC’s handy guide is here to help! Never plant directly below power lines. If you have underground service, be sure to leave 10 feet of clearance in the front and 5 feet around the sides of pad-mounted transformers. For more important planting tips, visit myPEC.com/plants .

Now accepting new patients

LOCATIONS NEAR YOU (512) 341-0900

TDDC (Cedar Park) 1411 Medical Parkway, Ste 200 Cedar Park, TX 78613

TDDC (North Austin) 11645 Angus Rd. Ste 4A Austin, TX 78759

TDDC (Lampasas) 207 West Ave E Lampasas, TX 76550

Pedernales Electric Cooperative

Visit TDDCTX.COM for more information

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

17 new ights, destinations added at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

This month, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport announced a series of new destinations and nonstop ights beginning this spring to locations across the nation. Frontier Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines are expanding their service from ABIA with new routes and destinations. Frontier Airlines • New service: Chicago, Illinois (ORD) began March 6 • New service: Orlando, Florida (MCO) beginning March 6 • New service: Cincinnati, Ohio (CVG) began March 7 • New service: Phoenix, Arizona (PHX) began March 7

• New destination: Miami, Florida (MIA) begin- ning May 22 • New destination: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL) beginning May 22. Delta Air Lines • New service: New Orleans, Louisiana (MSY) began Feb. 27 • New service: Panama City Beach, Florida (ECP) began March 9 • New service: Indianapolis, Indiana (IND) beginning May 7 • New service: San Francisco, California (SFO) beginning June 8 • New service: Tampa, Florida (TPA) beginning June 8 • New destination: Jacksonville, Florida (JAX)

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is adding several new routes and destinations.

COURTESY MATT HELGRENAUSTINBERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

beginning May 7 • New destination: Memphis, Tennessee (MEM) beginning May 7 Southwest Airlines • New service: Jacksonville, Florida (JAX) begin- ning Oct. 2 • New service: San Francisco, California (SFO) beginning Aug. 5 • New destination: Milwaukee, Wisconsin (MKE) began March 6 • New destination: Reno, Nevada (RNO) began March 6

SPRING INTO SAVINGS

Why pay 50% more for your commute? Get an electronic tag and start saving today! The Mobility Authority accepts several in-state and out-of-state electronic tags – pick the one

that’s right for you. Learn more at www.MobilityAuthority.com/tags.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Traffic changes underway for New Hope Drive expansion

Cedar Park drivers should be prepared for new traffic patterns starting this week along 183A Toll and New Hope Drive. The traffic changes come as the city is working to expand New Hope Drive from four to six lanes and open an innovative intersection design at New Hope Drive and 183A Toll. The project is projected to con- clude by spring 2027, according to city information. What you need to know Beginning in late February, the outside lane closed along 183A Toll southbound next to the intersection of New Hope Drive. A new south-to- north U-turn will replace the former U-turn, and driveways will remain open, according to Cedar Park information. Both directions of two-lane traffic along New Hope Drive will be shifted so the city can construct the remaining culvert extension. Westbound and eastbound traffic on New Hope Drive will not be able to turn left onto Avenue of the Stars and

1st phase of construction

2nd phase of construction

AVENUE OF THE STARS

VALERO

AVE. OF THE STARS

180

BLOCK HOUSE DR.

7-ELEVEN

183A TOLL

NEW HOPE ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Discovery Boulevard. Two driveways will be closed, including: • The west driveway of the Valero gas station north of New Hope Drive • The driveway next to 7-Eleven and the New Hope Animal Hospital on the south side of New Hope Drive.

The background Construction will focus on culvert drainage improvements. Once that work is complete, the city will widen New Hope Drive from four to six lanes from CR 180 to Block House Drive. The project will include widening westbound and eastbound lanes, turn lanes, medians and paving.

Discover why Regency at Santa Rita Ranch was awarded Best 55+ Community by the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. This active adult community offers home designs to choose from and master-plan amenities plus an exclusive 55+ clubhouse with a resort style pool, fitness center, pickleball and bocce courts, and more. LUXURY LIVING FOR 55+ ACTIVE ADULTS IN LIBERTY HILL, TEXAS LUXU

Explore our community calendar of events:

From the mid-$300,000s Quick move-in homes available Five model homes open daily Brand-new amenity center now open

Brokers Welcome. Regency at Santa Rita Ranch is a 55+ active-adult community intended to operate under the Housing for Older Person’s Act of 1995, as amended. One resident must be 55+. Prices subject to change without notice. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. Toll Brothers Real Estate, Inc. RegencyatSantaRitaRanch.com/Impact 500 Sweetgrass Ct, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | 833-405-8655

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

SCHEDULE TODAY 512-866-3800

FREE Whitening for Life Become a new patient and get

Some limitations and exclusions apply. Contact

our office for details. Limited time offer.

Providing high-quality care & personalized treatment with patient comfort in mind.

Dr. Elizabeth Lowery DDS AACD Accredited

Dr. Kasey Lowrance

15004 Avery Ranch Blvd, | Building B, Suite 100 Austin TX 78717 AustinEliteSmiles.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY DACIA GARCIA

March

April

Chuck Wagon Breakfast Community members can enjoy rodeo season with a breakfast hosted by Frost Bank featuring scrambled eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, peach cobbler and coffee. • March 25, 7:30-9:30 a.m. • Free • Frost Bank, 1450 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park • Facebook: Chuck Wagon Breakfast Astronomical Society, attendees can partake in this annual event and find out more about local astronomy. Members of the Liberty Hill Save Our Stars group will be present and available to answer questions. • March 28, 7-10 p.m. • Free • Liberty Hill Library, 355 Main St., Liberty Hill • Facebook: Star Party Star Party From kids crafts to stargazing with the Austin 2025 Cedar Fest Attendees of all ages can look forward to a free climbing wall, face painting, balloon twisting, local food trucks and more. • March 29 • Free • Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park • www.cedarparkchamber.org/cedar-fest DIY Bench or Planter Workshop Board and Brush Cedar Park will host a step-by-step tutorial with a variety of wood stain and paint colors so participants can create their own bench or planter. All attendees will receive a free doormat and all materials will be provided. • March 29, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • $98 • Board and Brush Cedar Park, 2011 Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park • www.boardandbrush.com/cedarpark

Live @ Lakeline Concert Series Cedar Park Parks and Recreation and BOB FM 103.5 are sponsoring this biweekly free concert series at Lakeline Park. Performers include Madame Radar, Zoodust, Sarah Hobbs and Queen Legacy. • Starting April 4, 7 p.m. • Free • Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Drive, Cedar Park • https://www.cedarparktexas.gov/669/Live-Lakeline- Concert-Series Baby Steps Pop-up Classes Parents and their babies can learn simple stretches and stimulation activities that can be replicated at home. Children ages 4 to 18 months are welcome to participate. • April 5, 10-10:45 a.m. • $20 • Müv Dance & Fitness Studio, 1717 Scottsdale Drive, Leander • www.crossovertx.com/events/baby-steps-pop-up- classes Band of the Hills Band of the Hills will perform a free concert as part of Cedar Park’s Park and Recreation’s “Concerts in the Park” series. • April 6, 4 p.m. • Free • Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Drive, Cedar Park • www.bandofthehills.org Austin Country, Blues and Red Dirt Festival The annual event will feature performances by Wesley Pruitt and Brennen Leigh in addition to more artists. Participants can enjoy arts and crafts, a farmers market and boutique shopping. Proceeds will go toward The Wounded Warrior Project. • April 12, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. • Free (children under 12), $5 (admission) • Fieldhouse at The Crossover, 1717 Scottsdale Drive, Ste. 160, Leander • www.austincountryfestival.com

Adult Egg Hunt Community members 21 years and older can experience the joys of being a child during Easter by participating in an egg hunt. The night will feature live music, food, and prizes. • April 18, 7 p.m. • Free (admission), $25 (egg hunt) Spring Plant Sale Hill Country Bloomers will host its annual plant sale which will raise funds for its educational garden grants which benefit schools and nonprofits in LISD. Individuals can purchase vegetable starts, native plants, perennials, annuals, cacti and succulents. • April 12, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park • www.hcbloomers.org/plant-sale

• 16107 FM 2769, Leander • www.volentebeach.com

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Nonprofits aid unhoused in Cedar Park From the cover

Two-minute impact

Williamson County point- in-time count Numbers reflected are dependent on number of volunteers and public awareness of the count, according to the Wilco Homeless Coalition.

100

The Wilco Homeless Coalition formed in 2019 to begin conducting an annual point-in-time count to track the number of unhoused people in Williamson County. Unhoused people identified by the county rose by 300% from 2022 to 2023 before declining in 2024. “We have more folks than people know,” said Christel Erickson-Collins, chair of the Wilco Homeless Coalition. “There’s a myth that that is not an issue for our community because there’s a lack of visibility.” Neither Cedar Park nor Williamson County have shelters designated for unhoused people or city- or county-run warming shelters besides Pecan Gardens. The permanent supportive housing facility for seniors in Northwest Austin faced pushback when Williamson County unsuccessfully sued the city of Austin to stop the project in 2021. The city of Cedar Park awarded $96,500 to local nonprofits for 2025 and funds $8,195 a year for case management services from Hill Country Community Ministries at the Cedar Park Public

+300%

NOTE: 2021 DATA WAS NOT COLLECTED DUE TO THE PANDEMIC.

2019 2020 2021

2022

2023

2024

SOURCE: TEXAS HOMELESS NETWORK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

A survey of 312 food-insecure Williamson County residents by Central Texas Food Bank found that 41% would be unable to afford an unexpected $400 emergency. Thousands fall above the federal poverty line while still struggling to make ends meet, Hollaway said. Homelessness can happen to anyone due to a variety of life situations, Erickson-Collins said.

Library. In 2023, Williamson County donated $1.4 million in federal funding to build more tiny homes at Community First! Village, a permanent, affordable housing community in East Austin. The Hill Country Community Ministries food pantry provides resources and serves struggling residents in the Cedar Park and Leander area, many of whom are one emergency away from needing these services, executive director Tiesa Hollaway said.

The background

The approach

Where WilCo’s unhoused sleep In 2024, the coalition counted 89 people experiencing homelessness in January. Sixty-three individuals gave the following answers to the question “Where are you sleeping tonight?”

Conducting the point-in-time count requires an immense amount of effort, and the Wilco Home- less Coalition, a volunteer-based organization, receives no additional funding from the state or county, Erickson-Collins said. The count is conducted over one day with groups of volunteers going out to search for people for up to four hours. The group had around 40-45 volunteers during its 2025 count in January compared to 65-70 volunteers last year. Once someone is identified, volunteers will ask the person a series of questions, point them to local resources and offer them items, such as gloves or beanies, sleeping bags, nonperishable food items and gift cards. Williamson County does not have large encamp- ments of unhoused people, as people are typically out of sight and on the move, Erickson-Collins said. This year, the coalition counted most people at cold-weather sheltering run by churches while the unhoused population has been more spread out in other years. The coalition has identified people living in their cars at Walmart and Lowe’s parking lots. This year, however, volunteers noticed many businesses put up signs prohibiting overnight parking. Additionally, local law enforcement may enforce

The Charlie Center in far Northwest Austin helps over 400 people each week. The nonprofit often connects clients to resources that are not available in Williamson County, said Leah Hargrave, executive director of the Charlie Center. Hill Country Community Ministries serves over 3,000 families a month, around 25 of which are homeless, Executive Director Tiesa Hollaway said. Hollaway said she often has nowhere to send clients needing shelter outside of Austin. Cedar Park does not provide services for unhoused people but encourages them to visit local service providers for assistance, Community Affairs Assistant Director Daniel Sousa said. In 2022, the city began partnering with HCCM to provide services to residents in need at the Cedar Park Public Library. Williamson County Commissioner Terry Cook told Community Impact the county has no unified approach to addressing homeless- ness due to a cap on tax rate increases. “I’m hoping that we can come up with something, but without funding, I don’t know what that could be,” Cook said.

Street/sidewalk: 24 Vehicle: 15 Park: 8 Outdoor encampment: 8 Abandoned building/structure: 4

Total: 63

Under bridge/overpass: 3 Bus, train station, airport: 1

SOURCE: TEXAS HOMELESS NETWORK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

a statewide ban against camping in public places, which became effective in 2021. “That unwillingness to allow people to be seen in Williamson County is a big obstacle,” Erick- son-Collins said. The point-in-time count does not account for people who are homeless but living with a friend, which Erickson-Collins said she believes is a large number.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CHLOE YOUNG

The conditions

Put in perspective

ALICE households in WilCo ALICE: asset limited, income constrained and employed

Nonprofit organizations say homelessness services are not just important for those who are currently unhoused, but everyone in the county facing hard times. “A lot of those folks, they can get back on their feet,” Erickson-Collins said. “It’s just this one crisis situation that lasted a little bit too long.” Increases to the cost of living and housing costs in the Cedar Park and Leander area have created challenges for families, Hollaway said. Many families in the area are considered ALICE, or asset limited, income constrained and employed, Holloway said. The term, coined by United Way, describes people who are above the federal poverty line but making less than it costs to make ends meet. “It’s amazing how many people are one paycheck away from financial ruin or homelessness,” Hargrave said. The creation of more rental assistance and rapid rehousing programs could help ensure more residents don’t fall into or stay experiencing

Disability rights advocate John Woodley has been visiting The Charlie Center to receive support while living in his vehicle. Woodley said he recently transported someone from Round Rock to a cold-weather shelter as there were no options in the area. “I don’t think there’s resources, period,” Woodley said. “They don’t prioritize people with disabilities to get into housing, and that’s a big problem.” Kocen, who formerly lived in her car and on the streets of Round Rock, said she now understands that the hardships of life can happen to anyone and the importance of treating unhoused residents with respect. “Given a chance, I’m sure many of them would be great at being your neighbor,” Kocen said. The Wilco Homeless Coalition is working to improve understanding and awareness of homelessness, Erickson- Collins said. “Homelessness is not something that happens to somebody else. It can happen to any of us.” she said.

40K 30K 20K 10K 0 60K 70K 50K

2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022

SOURCE: UNITED FOR ALICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: 2020 DATA WAS NOT COLLECTED DUE TO THE PANDEMIC.

homelessness, Erickson-Collins said. The city of Austin has reopened several former hotels as supportive housing. Additionally, the city provides $1,000 monthly payments to qualifying low-income families, most of which are spent on rent, according to a 2024 study from the Urban Institute.

Going forward

How to get involved

HCCM is raising $3 million to open a nonprofit mall to house various nonprofit services near the Cedar Park and Leander border. “[This] could be transformative,” Cedar Park City Council member Heather Jefts said in December. “We are all just one health crisis, one car crash away from needing [HCCM’s] services.” The organization has received zoning approval to build eight tiny homes for transitional housing at its

current food pantry off Lacy Drive, Hollaway said. Moving forward, the Wilco Homeless Coalition wants to support organizations providing winter sheltering, including outreach efforts in Georgetown and Taylor, Erickson-Collins said. “Almost all of the resources … are coming through small nonprofits or through churches,” Erick- son-Collins said. “There’s a lot of opportunity for cities and the county to provide services.”

WilCo Homeless Coalition wilcopitcount2025@gmail.com

The Charlie Center www.thecharliecenter.org

Hill Country Community Ministries www.hccm.org

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

Community Camp Guide

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

2025

Welcome to the annual Community Impact Summer Camp Guide If you’re above a certain age, the idea of a summer camp might evoke late-night campres, guided hikes and friendly camp competitions. But modern summer camps have evolved to be so much more than capture the ag and swimming lessons. Today, summer camps oer a wealth of diverse experiences for every interest. From the classic outdoor experience to intensive sports camps to designing your own video games, there are plenty of options for keeping kids active and engaged all summer. The sheer number of options can be overwhelming, but the Community Impact sta has reached out to a wide variety of camps in the area to help simplify your choice. Please enjoy our list of summer camps in the greater Austin area, and thanks to our sponsors for supporting this annual guide.

Steve Guntli Editor sguntli@ communityimpact.com

Sponsors:

For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!

Dates: June 30-Aug. 15 Cost: $300-$350/week • 3621 E. Whitestone Blvd., Ste. 700, Cedar Park • www.artplusacademy.com Art Beat Dance Center Type: Dance Ages: 3-11 Dates: June 2-27, July 14-18, July 21-25 Cost: $275/week, $325/week • 2051 Cypress Creek Road, Ste. Q • www.artbeatdancecenter.com Art Camps at Cordovan Art School Type: Art Ages: 5-16 Dates: May 27-Aug. 15 Cost: $299-$479/week • 200 Buttercup Creek Blvd., Ste. 122, Cedar Park • www.cordovanartschool.com Austin Ninjas Type: Sports Ages: 5-12 Dates: May 27-Aug. 8 Costs: $250 (half-day), $400 (full day) • 200 Buttercup Creek, Ste. 107A, Cedar Park • www.austinninjas.com

This list is not comprehensive.

Cedar Park

Anderson Mill

The Learning Experience Preschool - Anderson Mill Type: Summer Camp Ages: 6 weeks to 9 year olds Dates: May 29 to Aug 20 Costs: $950 + Activity fee • 11624 Anderson Mill Road, Austin TX 78750 • https://thelearningexperience.com/centers/austin- anderson-mill/

Cedar Park

Bluebonnet School of Cedar Park Type: Day Ages: 5-9 Dates: May 27-Aug. 8 Cost: $349/week • 3420 El Salido Parkway, Cedar Park • www.bluebonnetschool.com

All-Star Sports Camp Type: Sports Ages: 5-14 Dates: May 26-Aug. 18 Costs: $395/week (full day), $245/week (half day)

• 920 Old Mill Road, Cedar Park • www.AllStarSportsCamp.org

Art + Academy Type: Art Ages: 5-17

CONTINUED ON 25

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

HEARTS AND PAWS

Club Pup Summer Camp

An Interactive kids with dogs camp for ages 9-16. Camp includes training, behavior, tricks, agility, and so much more!

Bring your own dog or we can supply one!

13291 Pond Springs · Austin, Texas 78729

512-249-7255

heartsandpaws.com

Summer Camps Ages 1-16 years

Inspiring future innovators

To find a location near you

Fun Hands-on Projects & activities • Coding, Robotics & Design for Learners Aged 4-18 Year • AI Adventurers: Comic Quests & Video Ventures (Gr. 7-9) • MIT Scratch (Ages 4-15) & Roblox Game Development (Ages 8-15) • Minecraft \ AR-VR ( Gr. 3-6 ) • Design & Print in 3D: Idea to Reality (Gr. 2-5) • LEGO Robotics (Gr. K-6) • Coding, Robotics & Design for Learners Aged 4-18 Years

Visit our website

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

512.222.8459 info-wmc@wizeacademy.com

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

Scan to schedule a tour

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

CEDAR PARK - FAR NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION

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 Page 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 30-31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60

communityimpact.com