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North Northwest Austin Edition VOLUME 17, ISSUE 12 JAN. 31 FEB. 29, 2024
2024 Annual Community Guide
The Texas Department of Transportation's $4.5 billion I 35 expansion project will kick o in mid-2024 with reconstruction of the Riverside Drive intersection.
FALCON SKY PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY IMPACT
I 35 overhaul ahead
RENDERING COURTESY TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
improve walkability, and mend the physical and symbolic scar I-35 created though the city’s center by increasing east to west connections to help pedes- trian and driver mobility.
Over the next year, drivers will sit through the onset of tra c congestion and lane closures on I-35 that could persist for the next decade. Residents will also see businesses displaced by the project relocate or inevitably close. City leaders are hopeful it will alleviate congestion,
BY KATY MCAFEE
The Texas Department of Transportation will turn dirt on the I-35 Capital Express Central project this year, the biggest and most costly highway project in Austin at $4.5 billion.
CONTINUED ON 16
Also in this issue
Impacts: The Rose Bakery now open in The Arboretum (Page 6)
Voter Guide: Primaryelections for North, Northwest Austin (Page 10)
Annual Community Guide: Austin area snapshot (Page 21)
Business: Tech startup uses humanoid robots (Page 28)
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NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
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NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
45 TOLL
LYNDHURST ST.
Impacts
LAKELINE MALL DR.
3 The Grill-eria The authentic Mexican restaurant offers soups, pork carnitas, chilaquiles, tacos and more on housemade tortillas. • Opened in November
WELLS BRANCH PKWY.
5
LAKE CREEK PKWY.
9
13
LAMPLIGHT VILLAGE AVE.
• 2309 W. Parmer Lane, Austin • https://the-grill-eria.square.site
183
620
4 Stonelake Chiropractic Owned by Jacoby Bergeron, the spinal care clinic offers chiropractic care for athletes, automotive injuries, overall wellness and more. • Opened Dec. 18 • 4030 W. Braker Lane, Bldg. 4, Ste. 405, Austin • www.stonelakechiropractic.com 5 Tare Executive chef Michael Carranza and pastry chef Danielle Martinez opened the 12-seat brick-and-mortar location, offering a multicourse omakase menu blending flavors from Texas and Tokyo. • Opened Jan. 18 • 12414 Alderbrook Drive, Austin • www.tareaustin.com 6 Sweetgreen The eatery offers a range of customizable, protein- based plates and bowls, in addition to salads, kids meals and desserts. • Opened Jan. 16 • 11501 Rock Rose Ave., Ste. 124, Austin • www.sweetgreen.com 7 Zalat Pizza The restaurant specializes in hand-tossed, New York- style speciality pizzas featuring a variety of toppings, sauces and garnishes. • Opened Nov. 15 • 10515 N. MoPac, Austin • www.zalatpizza.com 8 Pho 63 The mobile Vietnamese eatery serves pho, banh mi, rice and noodle dishes, appetizers and more, in addition to milk and fruit teas.
16
3
SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.
18
1
12
4
WALNUT CREEK PARK
GREAT HILLS TRL.
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY DR.
620
W I L S O
2 19 20
7
14
360
8
SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.
2222
MOPAC
10
MOPAC
35
17
ANDERSON LN.
MCCALLEN PASS
CENTURY OAKS TERRACE
15
ROCK ROSE AVE.
11
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K
6
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2024 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
2 The Rose Bakery Award-winning pastry chef Julie Myrtille opened a second bakery in the Austin area highlighting French, American and English treats. The bakery offers scratch- made goods, such as breads and madeleines, alongside soups, homemade jams, quiches and more. • Opened Dec. 17 • 10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 123, Austin • Instagram: therosebakeryatx
Now open
1 Phoebe’s Diner at Gracy Farms The new location at Gracy Farms offers breakfast, specialty plates, snacks, barbecue and more. • Opened Jan. 9
• 12001 Burnet Road, Austin • www.phoebesdiner.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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• Opened in November • 907 Kramer Lane, Austin • www.pho63bobateacafe.com
• 10401 Anderson Mill Road, Ste. 108-B, Austin • www.artplusacademy.com
Coming soon
Expansions
9 Dirty Dough Cookies The cookie shop sells “super-stuffed cookie bombs,” which feature various layers, mix-ins and fillings baked into the dough. • Opened Dec. 16 • 6301 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. 503, Austin • https://dirtydoughcookies.com 10 MCM The alternative luxury brand offers clothing, shoes, bags, fragrances and accessories for women and men. • Opened Jan. 13 • 11700 Rock Rose Ave., Ste. 156, Austin • https://mcmworldwide.com
14 Kramer’s Cocktail Lounge at Hopsquad Brewing Co. The Latino-owned, Austin-based brewery will expand its building to open a cocktail lounge featuring curated drinks in an intimate setting. • Opening in mid-2024 • 2307 Kramer Lane, Austin • www.hopsquad.com 15 IBM The technology and consulting company signed a lease for a 50,000-square-foot space at Parmer Impact Labs. No completion date was announced as of press time. • 13011 McCallen Pass, Austin • www.ibm.com
19 Oasis Face Bar The business will offer customizable, targeted skin care services, such as sculpting and deep cleansing, in addition to light therapy options, brow tinting and more. • Opening in February • 10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 254, Austin • www.oasisfacebar.com
Coming soon
11 IKEA Austin at The Domain The new format store will allow customers to meet with an IKEA expert to plan and order home furnishings. There will be a pick-up point for in-person and online orders. • Opening this summer • 3306 Esperanza Crossing, Austin • www.ikea.com 12 The Drip Bar Franchisee Anthony Reyes will open the IV therapy bar, offering vitamins through IVs and shots, alongside services such as Botox and infrared saunas. • Opening by April • 8300 N. RM 620, Ste. 600, Austin • www.thedripbar.com
In the news
16 Covert Cadillac The automotive dealership will undergo renovations to expand the showroom, new-car delivery area and more with an expected completion of late 2024, according to filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations. • 11750 Research Blvd., Ste. B, Austin • www.covertcadillac.com 17 Dior at The Domain State filings indicate luxury brand Christian Dior will open a new store later this year, offering fashion for men and women, fragrances, accessories and more. • 11600 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. A01A • www.dior.com
to underperformance, officials with the company confirmed. Prescriptions from the pharmacy will be transferred to the Randalls at 8040 Mesa Drive, Austin. • Closing by Feb. 10 • 10900 Research Blvd., Austin • www.randalls.com 20 Soft Surroundings The Missouri-based home goods and women’s apparel store will close its brick-and-mortar North Austin location while making the transition to an online-only shop. • Closing in February • 10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 115, Austin • www.softsurroundings.com
Relocations
13 Art Plus Academy Founder Monica Araoz moved the academy focused on drawing and painting from its location on 9308 Anderson Mill Road. • Relocated Jan. 2
Closings
18 Randalls The grocery store will close on or before Feb. 10 due
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Government
BY KATY MCAFEE & BEN THOMPSON
“With deep listening, focus, and strong partnerships, we will aim to significantly reduce health disparities in Travis County on my watch.” DR. PATRICK LEE, CENTRAL HEALTH CEO Lee succeeds Mike Geeslin, whose six-year tenure as Central Health CEO ended Dec. 31. Lee takes over as Central Health continues to face scrutiny of its budget, performance and patient service amid ongoing legal battles. New CEO named at Central Health Dr. Patrick Lee will begin serving as the next CEO for Travis County’s health care district for low-income residents on Jan. 29. What’s happening
Taking inventory While thousands of new residential units were added since 2017, fewer were built for lower-income residents than hoped for in a 10-year city housing plan.
Housing units completed, 2018-22
Affordable housing (<80% MFI)
GOAL 60,000
10,444
Middle and high-income housing (>80% MFI)
GOAL 75,000
32,145
SOURCES: CITY OF AUSTIN, HOUSINGWORKS AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
THE AUSTIN AREA'S MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME, OR MFI, IS NOW $122,300 FOR A FOUR-PERSON HOUSEHOLD. THOSE EARNING 80% MFI AND BELOW ARE DEFINED AS LOW-INCOME AND CAN QUALIFY FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING.
Affordable housing goals still falling short Despite a surge of residential construction in Austin over the years, the city is running out of time to meet it’s 10-year housing goals. The big picture City Council approved a Strategic Housing Blueprint in 2017 to track local housing gains. A
new report detailed progress toward the plan’s goals over five years, from 2018-22. The shortfall in affordable development continues as median incomes in Austin are rising by thousands of dollars each year, which can price out many lower-income residents. By the numbers Through 2022, just 10,444 affordable units out of a goal of 60,000—17.41%—were added, well off the blueprint’s targets. In the same time, 43% of a 75,000-unit goal for moderate- and high-income residents were built.
Austin city manager search gets underway
Search process steps Feb. 2023 Spencer Cronk fired; Jesús Garza appointed as interim city manager Summer 2023 City Council develops request for search firm Oct. 2023 Council selects Mosaic Public Partners to lead search for $150,000 Feb. 2024 Application period closes Jan. 2024 Application period begins April 2024 City manager selection begins
The search for Austin’s next city manager is ramping up after the application period for inter- ested candidates opened in early January ahead of an anticipated final selection this spring. Austin’s government has been operating under an interim city manager, Jesús Garza, since City Council fired former City Manager Spencer Cronk in February.
The approach The search, guided by feedback from City Council members and community stakeholders, will continue before a candidate shortlist is developed in March. A final public selection process will follow and a new city manager could be chosen by mid- April—although the manager’s start date is not locked in.
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
Election
Voter Guide
2024
To view the full list of all contested state and national candidates, visit www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Only candidates in contested elections are included. Visit county election websites for information on uncontested races.
KEY
R Republican
D Democrat
*Incumbent
D Gabriel A. Cornejo D Star Locke D Frankie Lozada D Armando “Mando” Perez-Serrato
Dates to know
Sample ballot
Feb. 5: Last day to register to vote Feb. 20: First day of early voting March 1: Last day of early voting March 5: Election day
Federal election U.S. President R Ryan L. Binkley R Chris Christie R Ron DeSantis R Nikki Haley R Asa Hutchinson
D Dean Phillips D Cenk Uygur D Marianne Williamson U.S. Senator R Ted Cruz* R Holland “Redd” Gibson R R.E. “Rufus” Lopez $ D A. “Robert” Hassan D Carl Oscar Sherman
Where to vote
Any voter can cast a ballot in the Republican or Democratic primary, but not both. Travis County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.elections.traviscountytx.gov for more information.
R Vivek Ramaswamy R David Stuckenberg R Donald J. Trump D Joseph R. Biden, Jr.*
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY GRACE DICKENS
D Colin Allred D Heli Rodriguez Prilliman D Mark Gonzalez D Meri Gomez
R Brian Walker Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 6 D Bonnie Lee Goldstein D Joe Pool Presiding judge, Court of Criminal Appeals R Sharon Keller* R David J. Schenck Court of Criminal Appeals judge, Place 7 R Barbara Parker Hervey* R Gina Parker Court of Criminal Appeals judge, Place 8 R Lee Finley R Michelle Slaughter* Local elections Travis County District Attorney D José Garza* D Jeremy Sylestine Travis County justice of the peace, Precinct 5
D Rick “Rico” Olivo* State Representative, District 50
D Nathan Boynton D James Talarico* Justice, 3rd Court of Appeals District, Place 2 D Edward Smith* D Melissa Lorber D Maggie Ellis Justice, 3rd Court of Appeals District, Place 5 D Thomas J. Baker* D Karin Crump Precinct Chair 383
D Roland Gutierrez D Steven J. Keough D Thierry Tchenko
State elections Railroad commissioner R Christie Clark R Christi Craddick* R Corey Howell R James “Jim” Matlock R Petra Reyes D Bill Burch D Katherine Culbert Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 2 D DaSean Jones D Randy Sarosdy Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 4 R John Devine*
R Cindi Davidson* R Greg Kestranek District judge, 353rd Judicial District D Susana Castillo D Madeleine Connor* D Sherine Thomas
D Ornela DeSeta D Tanisa Jeffers
SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, TRAVIS COUNTY CLERK/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
Education
BY ELLE BENT & BROOKE SJOBERG
AISD to deploy 25 electric buses with federal funds Austin ISD is one of two school districts in Cen- tral Texas to receive federal funding going toward the purchase of electric buses. The overview A total of $6.25 million for 25 electric buses for AISD was announced by the Environmental Protection Agency on Jan. 8. The new buses will replace diesel-powered vehicles in the district’s existing eet. The EPA provided the grant to AISD with funding from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. With this funding, the EPA created the Clean School Bus Program and has awarded 67 grants to 280 school districts across the nation to replace buses, according to the EPA’s website. Why it matters Diesel emissions from transportation contain
RRISD approves 2024- 25 district calendar The Round Rock ISD board of trustees approved a 2024-25 district calendar option on Dec. 12 that includes more religious hol- idays after receiving community feedback during the calendar setting process. The details Option 1A for the 2024-25 calendar has a start date of Aug. 13, with the rst semester ending Dec. 19 and students returning for the spring semester Jan. 7. In this calendar scenario, the last day of classes is May 22. Diving in deeper The religious holidays included in the 2024-25 calendar are Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hanukkah, the Lunar New Year, Eid al-Fitr and Good Friday.
"Still yellow outside but green inside. While they will look the same, our new,
electric Austin school buses will be healthier for both our students and our planet." LLOYD DOGGETT, U.S. REPRESENTATIVE
pollutants that a ect cardiovascular and respira- tory health, and may even cause cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Electric buses reduce health risks to students and save the district costs from maintenance and fuel, according to the EPA. What’s next The district anticipates replacing 25 diesel buses with electric by the end of January using the grant provided by the EPA.
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Austin Light Rail is Moving Forward
Austin is growing, and so is the need for more transit options. Implementation of Austin Light Rail has begun, including the effort to secure federal funds. ATP is advancing environmental studies to support the federal process. Please join us to provide input on station location and other design options.
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13
NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
Real estate
December data from the Austin Board of Realtors shows overall home sales are down while days on the market are up for the Northwest Austin area. Residential market data
Homes sold
December 2022
December 2023
-29.4%
+45.45%
-21.74%
+7.14%
-16.67%
45 TOLL
78727
78729
78750
78758
78759
78729
620
MOPAC
183
Median home sales price
78727
78750
78759
35
December
2022
2023
78758
360
$514,750 $415,000 $570,000 $394,000 $593,000
$517,922 $443,500 $470,500 $418,800 $525,000
78727
2222
78729
N
78750
78758
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS 512-454-7636 • WWW.ABOR.COM
78759
Average days on market
North-Northwest Austin
December 2022
December 2023
+48.6%
-53.62%
-15.87%
+23.21%
+35%
December
2022
2023
67
48
New listings
97
62
Closed sales
78727
78729
78750
78758
78759
Homes under contract
72
73
Homes sold by price point in December
Months of inventory
1.5
2
78727
78729
78750
78758
78759
1 1
0
4 4
0 2 2 9 2
0 4
$900,000+
1
Price per square foot
$700,000-$899,999
$297 $294
4 6 0
3
1
5
$500,000-$699,999
11
9 0
4
$300,000-$499,999
Active listings
210 185
1
2
<$299,999
I-35 overhaul ahead From the cover
Zooming in
In case you missed it
Key:
City-funded caps UT-funded caps City-funded stitches I-35 project scope*
TxDOT will kick off the decade-long project in mid-2024 with reconstruction of the River- side Drive intersection and the east side of the pedestrian bridge over Lady Bird Lake. Crews will excavate and rebuild the Martin Luther King Bou- levard Bridge along I-35 from Airport Boulevard to downtown this fall. While no traffic control plan for the project has been released by TxDOT, Public Information Officer Brad Wheelis said the project will look similar to I-35 Capital Express South, which has led to traffic backups and long-term lane closures.
TxDOT’s plan for the I-35 face-lift includes removing the upper decks, sinking portions of the roadway about 25 feet below ground level, adding two high-occupancy vehicle lanes in each direction and widening the corridor to a range of 17-22 lanes. City leaders have a separate but related project to add caps, or large decks, and stitches, or wide bridges, on top of the sunken roadway. The vision for the project is to add amenities like parks and co ee shops on top of the caps. The project will cost upwards of $800 million and remains mostly unfunded.
35
T
O
2024
JANUARY TxDOT officials complete design FEBRUARY $105 million cap and stitch grant recipient will be announced APRIL The first project phase to go out to bid MAY TxDOT officials to select contractor for first phase MID YEAR • Construction to begin between Holly Street and Hwy. 71/Ben White Boulevard. • Crews will reconstruct the Riverside Drive intersection and the east side pedestrian bridge over Lady Bird Lake. TxDOT crews to begin construction on city- funded caps and stitches • Crews will install a drainage tunnel and reconstruct the Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard bridge. DECEMBER Austin cap and stitch funding deadline WINTER • Work is set to begin between Airport Boulevard and downtown.
1
Crews will reconstruct the east side of the Lady Bird Lake bridge in the summer.
RENDERINGS COURTESY TXDOT
2
2
1
LADY BIRD LAKE
Austin is proposing a 5.2-acre cap from East Cesar Chavez Street to Fourth Street.
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
2025
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT *THE FULL 8 MILE PROJECT RUNS FROM HWY. 290 TO BEN WHITE BLVD.
SOURCE: TXDOT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY KATY MCAFEE CONTRIBUTIONS BY ZARA FLORES & BEN THOMPSON
What they’re saying
“[TxDOT] is helping in a way, but we are having to deal with a lot more than we were prepared for. There’s so much behind the scenes that we have to deal with; it’s not that easy.” JOSE JAIMES, HORNITOS MEXICAN FOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR OWNER
throughout the dining area—expenses he isn’t sure they can afford. Iyesha Grant, owner of Esh Blue nail salon, has already moved out of her former location and doesn’t anticipate reopening in Austin, even with TxDOT’s relocation assistance. “Trying to find a place in Austin just doesn’t seem possible,” she said. Israel Linares, a senior analyst for CoStar Group, said that what businesses along I-35 are experiencing is consistent with the broader retail market in Austin. “These tenants are stepping into a particularly hot market characterized by historically low availability, which I think will present challenges for businesses looking to find space and may entail accepting higher rental rates,” Linares said.
As the groundbreaking nears, many business owners among the 59 to be displaced by the proj- ect say they are scrambling to find new locations and struggling to advocate for themselves in negotiations with TxDOT. During the right-of-way process, TxDOT acquires property at market value and covers relocation costs. However, for renters, the assis- tance is limited to moving support and “related expenses,” a provision many business owners argue falls short of their actual needs. Taqueria Los Altos, a Mexican restaurant affected by the project, has until March to move to its new location next to Galaxy Theaters in North Austin. Manager Armando Aguirre is hopeful about the new spot, but it requires new flooring, kitchen upgrades and other renovations
“They have a federally funded program; they sit down with you and make plans to relocate. They’ve been really good about that.” GAYLE WORLEY, WORLEY PRINTING COMPANY OWNER
Cap and stitch funding progress
What's next
Austin leaders are scrambling to identify over $800 million in funding for caps and stitches before their December 2024 deadline.
In February, council will hear back on whether they received a $105 million federal grant that will fund a 5.2-acre deck between East Cesar Chavez and Fourth streets. That decision will guide council members on what funding moves to make next, including applying for federal Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loans, calling a bond election or garnering philanthropic support.
In the coming months, city leaders and local business owners will navigate this change, which TxDOT officials hope will have a positive impact on the community. This will be the first major upgrade to the corridor since the 1970s and aims to increase the capacity of total daily trips from 300,000 to 500,000. Concurrently, Austin officials will need to aggressively pursue funding for the cap and stitch project to meet their deadline.
Remaining funds needed $683.55M Pending funds $105M Secured funds $17.45M
Total $806M
SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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17
NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
Transportation
Transportation
BY GRACE DICKENS & KAMERYN GRIESSER
BY BRITTANY ANDERSON
North Austin behavioral health hospital to see delayed start
Construction begins on Spicewood Springs Road The city of Austin hosted a groundbreaking Dec. 8 for the Spicewood Springs Road expansion, which will widen a section of the road from two to four lanes to address tra c congestion and safety concerns in the area, according to a news release. What residents should know • The construction will a ect the 2-mile stretch of road from Mesa Drive to Loop 360. • The improvements are expected to cause lane closures and detours throughout construction. • The $31 million expansion project is funded by the resident-approved 2016 Mobility Bond and is set to be completed by December 2026. Other details The project also includes the addition of a grassy median and two shared-use pedestrian paths on each side of the road.
What’s next?
PARKFIELD DR.
183
OLD SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.
The upcoming hospital will provide a variety of mental health services and include 80 beds, with the capacity for 12 additional beds in the future. More than 200 jobs will be created, hospital o cials said.
SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.
MEARNS MEADOW BLVD.
ADIRONDACK TRL.
PARKFIELD DR.
N
360
Construction on an upcoming behavioral health center from St. David’s HealthCare will begin at least six months behind schedule, hospital o cials said. Located near St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, work on the $33.7 million behavioral health project will begin this summer, hospital o cials told Community Impact . An updated timeline for completion was not available as of press time. While the project was rst announced in a February 2022 news release, the project was initially projected to begin in late 2023. “While the COVID-19 pandemic certainly compounded the challenges our region is facing, there was already a need for …. additional services in our community,
JOLLYVILLE RD.
Key hospital features
SPICEWOOD SPRINGS RD.
Intersection closed through March The Park eld Drive and Mearns Meadow Boulevard intersection is closed through March as o cials continue work on Phase 1 of the Little Walnut Creek Flood Risk Reduction Project. The details Phase 1 of the project extends from Rut- land Drive to Park eld Drive. The intersec- tion closure began in mid-December with an anticipated end in early 2024.
MOPAC
Outpatient services
N
Indoor/outdoor therapy area
MOPAC
“Between 2012 and 2017, 47% of vehicle collisions on this stretch
Separate adolescent area
ST. DAVID'S NORTH AUSTIN MEDICAL CENTER
resulted in injury. I’m very pleased that the new improvements will not only be safer, but more e cient.” DISTRICT 10 COUNCIL MEMBER ALISON ALTER
SOURCE: ST. DAVID’S HEALTHCARE COMMUNITY IMPACT
including behavioral health services,” said David Hu stutler, St. David’s HealthCare president and CEO, in the release.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER
N
HYMEADOW 12611 Hymeadow (512) 506-8401
NORTH 620 10601 N FM 620 (512) 506-8316
ARBORETUM 10515 North Mopac Expressway (512) 342-6893
For children and women in Austin, everything changes. More comprehensive care for children and women in Austin.
LIFE�CHANGING CARE COMING TO AUSTIN In February ����, everything changes for children and women in Austin. The life-changing care from Texas Children’s Hospital is coming to your neighborhood to serve patients with all kinds of needs—from the simple to the most complex. A city driving global change deserves life-changing care.
See why the difference is life-changing at texaschildrensaustin.org.
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY GRACE DICKENS
Community Impact is proud to say THANK YOU to our Annual Community Guide sponsors
Gold Sponsor
Austin Water encourages customers to take proactive measures now to safeguard their properties against freezing temperatures. Follow these steps to prevent potential winter-related property damage. Locate Water Shuto : Ensure everyone in your residence is aware of the main water shuto valve's location, typically on your side of the water meter at the meter box. Keep the area around the valve clear of debris and obstacles. Keep Out Cold Air: Close doors and windows tightly, repair any drafts, and seal leaks in crawl spaces and basements. Exposed Pipes and Water Heaters: Insulate pipes in unheated areas, like attics or garages, following manufacturer recommendations for tanked and tankless water heaters. Outside Faucets: Turn o outside faucets, remove hoses, and wrap faucets with towels or a Styrofoam insulator. Don't forget to turn o and drain automatic sprinkler systems. For more information and instructional videos on how to prepare for winter, visit austinwater.org.
Gold Sponsor
In February, everything changes for children and women in Austin. The life-changing care from Texas Children’s Hospital is coming to your neighborhood to serve patients with all kinds of needs––from the simple to the most complex. Our new $485 million state-of-the-art North Austin facility at 9835 North Lake Creek Parkway will bring expanded care to the community and be led by world-class pediatric and women’s specialists. Whether you’re looking for pediatric care, specialty care, urgent care or women’s services, our physicians and facilities are ready to deliver the most advanced comprehensive care. A city driving global change deserves the best life- changing care. See why the di erence is life-changing at texaschildrensaustin.org. texaschildrensaustin.org | 9835 North Lake Creek Parkway
2024 Annual Community Guide
Travis County grew faster than the state in the last ve years, seeing a 9.6% population increase since 2017. Austin’s median age continues to be lower than the state and county at 34.2. Travis County area snapshot
Austin
Texas Travis County
SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2017 2022 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5 YEAR ESTIMATES COMMUNITY IMPACT
Age analysis
Population change
Texas
21.6% 39.2% 24.9% 12.3% 2% 34.2
28.2% 28.6% 24.9% 15.4% 2.8% 35.2
23.3% 35% 26.4% 13.2% 2.1% 35.1
0-19
916,906
1,176,584
27,419,612
2017
2017
2017
20-39
958,202
1,289,054
29,243,342
2022
2022
2022
40-59
60-79
5-year population change
80+
+4.5%
+9.6%
+6.5%
Median age
21
NORTH NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
Lower your property taxes with Texas Protax Experts working to get you the property tax reduction you deserve
Your Texas property tax experts, helping you lower your property tax bill for 35 years 2024 appraisals are coming in April. Don’t wait, sign-up now. We are your Texas property tax experts, lowering your property tax bill for more than 35 years.
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE Mobility Authority
Navigating the tolling landscape can be complicated. We’re the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority, and we’re here to help you understand important pieces of the tolling puzzle, like what we do and how your toll bill works.
The Mobility Authority is not the only toll operator
Late payment fees do apply
!
The Mobility Authority is not TxTag
We accept a variety of electronic tags
!
Original Owner
New Owner
There’s a reason you might get a bill in the mail even if you have an electronic tag
There are payment options everywhere
Remove the license plates and electronic tag from vehicle to avoid future charges.
When selling your vehicle, remove the vehicle from your electronic tag account. If you’ve sold your vehicle, fill out a Vehicle Transfer Notification and submit it with the required documentation to the DMV. You may receive a toll bill in the mail until the new owner registers the car. If you receive a Pay By Mail bill, please contact us so that you won’t be held responsible.
Keep your electronic tag account in good standing
We use your address on file with the Texas DMV for bills
Learn what to do when you sell your car
Using the Pay By Mail program costs you more
WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP
To learn more fast facts about paying your Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority toll bill, visit us at MobilityAuthority.com/tolling101.
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community New luxury stores
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
MOPAC
2 3
• Opening in spring • 11700 Rock Rose Ave., Ste. 140, Austin • www.omegawatches.com
7
The following stories are based on trends Community Impact staff identified through monthly Impacts section reporting in 2023.
1
4 Versace The international Italian fashion brand will open in The Domain. The store will sell luxury bags, men’s and women’s clothing, children’s attire, home accessories, and more. Versace is one of the latest shops to be added to The Domain’s multimillion-dollar renovation lineup. • Opening in February • 11501 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. 113, Austin • www.versace.com 5 Burberry The British luxury clothing brand Burberry will open in The Domain. In addition to coats, the brand sells men’s and women’s clothing, scarves, accessories, and children’s clothing. • Opening in March • 11501 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. 109, Austin • https://us.burberry.com The Webster The luxury boutique will offer designer clothing, shoe and accessory brands for men, women and children. • Opening in October • Exact address unavailable as of press time • www.thewebster.com Veronica Beard Fashion designer Veronica Swanson Beard teamed up with her sister-in-law Veronica Miele Beard in 2010 to create the high-end women’s clothing brand. • Opening in 2024 • Exact address unavailable as of press time • www.veronicabeard.com
4 5 6
In 2024, The Domain and Domain Northside will see the addition of several luxury brands, from high-end watch stores to Versace, Burberry and Balenciaga.
N
Coming soon
Zimmermann Founded in 1991 by sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, the Australian apparel and accessory brand boasts looks that deliver “sophisticated femininity.” • Opening in 2024 • Exact address unavailable as of press time • www.zimmermann.com
1 Swatch Swiss watchmaker Swatch will open at Domain Northside, offering several varieties of watches for men, women and children featuring artistic designs. Some options will include the MoonWatch, a line of 11 watches inspired by celestial bodies in the solar system, along with various other automatic, thin, stainless steel or eco-friendly options. • Opening in spring • 3211 Palm Way, Ste. 154, Austin • www.swatch.com 2 Breitling The store will sell men’s and women’s watches and straps in Domain Northside. In addition to more standard watch offerings, the brand carries watches for aviation, diving or swimming, outdoor activities, and more, using sustainably-sourced materials. • Opening in spring • 11700 Rock Rose Ave., Ste. 150, Austin • www.breitling.com 3 Omega The shop will offer a variety of watches for men and women in Domain Northside, with options such as gold watches, dress watches, watches with built-in stopwatches and others.
In the news
6 Balenciaga Balenciaga will open in The Domain in late 2024, offering women’s and men’s apparel, shoes, bags and more, per filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. • 11501 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. 101, Austin • www.balenciaga.com 7 Dior Construction on Dior at The Domain will finish Oct. 31, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Dior offers high-end fashion, fragrances and accessories for women and men. • 11600 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. A01A, Austin • www.dior.com This list is not comprehensive.
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23
NORTH - NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
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The biggest giving event in Central Texas Amplify Austin Day
You have the power to shape your community. Making a donation on Amplify Austin Day supports hundreds of local nonprofits and amplifies what makes Austin and Central Texas so good.
March 6 7 6pm until 6pm -
Donate now at AmplifyATX.org
24
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Local golf simulators hit big in 2023
What’s happening?
Indoor golf simulator businesses that opened in 2023
Four new businesses o ering indoor golf simulators opened in Cedar Park and far North- west Austin in 2023. Though these facilities came online recently, indoor gol ng actually began to skyrocket during the pandemic, said Sukjoon SJ Yoon, Dr. Golf Studio general manager. “Golf courses could only take so many people, and there’s a lot of intimidation going to a golf course, especially for a new golfer,” said Ed Amadis, owner of Pin Seeker’s Golf Lounge. Simulators allow the golfer to play casually or seek help ne-tuning their skills—all under one roof, faster than an outdoor golf course, Ocean’s Golfer Owner Sunny Sunggeun Park said. “You can complete 18 holes within an hour late at night if you want,” Park said. Robert Erwood, assistant general manager of Spare Birdie, said the accuracy of the game does not su er from the faster game time, and it is more cost-e ective as there are a variety of options for hourly or annual plans.
734 2 Ocean’s Golfer Opened in March 200 Buttercup Creek Blvd., Ste. 109, Cedar Park 3 Pin Seeker’s Golf Lounge Opened in September 6001 W. Parmer Lane, 1 Dr. Golf Studio Opened in November 13776 N. US 183, Ste. 107A, Austin
4
DISCOVERY BLVD.
183
Golfers in Cedar Park and Northwest Austin now have many opportunities to hone their skills o the golf course with a new surge of businesses o ering indoor golf simulators in 2023. Local business owners said the increased demand for indoor golf simulators can be attributed to several factors, including: • Lack of available entertainment options during the pandemic • Improvements in technology that make the simulator experience more authentic • Increased convenience and affordability for both the golfer and the business owner These new facilities cater to both professional and recreational golfers as more people turn to indoor gol ng, with locations such as Dr. Golf Studio and Ocean’s Golfer providing lessons for players of all skill levels.
2
Ste. 230, Austin 4 Spare Birdie Opened in February 1400 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park
BUTTERCUP CREEK BLVD.
183
45
W. PARMER LN.
620
1
3
N
What are the options?
U.S. golf simulator players
Businesses such as Dr. Golf Studio and Spare Birdie o er simulators in open bays and/or private rooms for players of all skill levels, with various options that allow the golfer to adjust gameplay— from changing the course topography to using infrared technology to analyze swing data and ball tracking, and more. “Our customers range from 3 years old to 76 years old, so it doesn’t matter if you are a beginner, amateur or professional,” Park said.
0 1M 2M 3M 4M 5M 6M 7M
2019 2020 2021
2023 2022
Dr. Golf Studio holds six bays with technology such as Trackman and GC Quad.
SOURCE: NATIONAL GOLF FOUNDATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
COURTESY DR. GOLF STUDIO
What’s next?
will continue to stay up to date on the latest technology available in the market to continue to enhance his customers’ experiences. “Continued growth is evident,” Yoon said. “Golf simulators have transformed from niche facilities in basements and garages to what it is today, and will become even more popular in the future.”
Thanks to ever-evolving technology, combined with increased accessibility and a ordability, the future of indoor golf simulators does not appear to be slowing down anytime soon, Yoon said. Locally, Erwood and Park said they plan to o er more indoor golf tournaments in 2024 and beyond. Amadis said he is starting a league in 2024, as well as charity tournaments, while Yoon said he
A study published by Straits Research projects the golf simulator market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of more than 10% to reach $3.3 billion by 2030. “I also read that 2023 was the rst year where more rounds were played on indoor golf simulators than on outdoor golf courses,” Amadis said, referring to an article published in December by The Wall Street Journal.
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NORTH NORTHWEST AUSTIN EDITION
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