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Georgetown Edition VOLUME 19, ISSUE 3 NOV. 21 DEC. 22, 2025
2025 Volunteer Guide
Garage provides 315 downtown spaces Recently opened parking structure kick-starts larger vision for square access
2024 downtown master plan—a guiding document for future development—which includes plans to remove around 70 on-street parking spots from the historic square as well as construct additional downtown parking garages.
"Parking in downtown has become a bit of a chal- lenge over the years, but it’s been a good problem because it’s been busier, and we have more visitors in downtown and shoppers and diners and people going to the events," McAuli e said. City o cials are also moving forward with other parking projects that align with the
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Georgetown residents and city sta alike are “anxiously awaiting” the opening of the city’s rst downtown parking garage, Downtown and Tourism Director Kim McAuli e said. The garage will add over 300 parking spaces and opens to the public this month.
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Austin Avenue Parking Garage
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Following a decade of planning, the Austin Avenue Parking Garage is set to open to the public Nov. 21.
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GRACIE WARHURST COMMUNITY IMPACT
Also in this issue
Impacts: Birds Barbershop is planning to open its 10th Austin-area location in Georgetown—see where (Page 6)
Development: Learn about the Taiwan-based electronics company Pegatron, which is bringing a manufacturing facility to Georgetown (Page 19)
Nonprofit: Looking for a Georgetown-area organization to volunteer with? Check out our guide to local opportunities (Page 38)
Choosing health coverage doesn’t have to be complicated. With Moda Health, our Individual and Family plans are built to make life healthier, easier and more affordable
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
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Our brand-new, expanded facility—which includes Williamson County’s only Level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)—has the team and technology to support you before, during and after your delivery.
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Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2025 Baylor Scott & White Health. 67-RR-1623200 DT
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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.
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
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Impacts Georgetown
rowing machines and other equipment. The fitness center’s memberships offer 24/7 gym access to a network of over 5,500 gyms. • Opened Nov. 4 • 2029 Kauffman Loop, Ste. 410, Georgetown • www.anytimefitness.com 4 Teravista Liquor The store carries a selection of wines, beers and spirits. • Opened in late September • 2080 Westinghouse Road, Ste. 108, Georgetown • 512-243-5687
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29 5 Birds Barbershop The business provides haircuts and color services for men, women and children. Founded in 2006 and with nine existing Austin locations, this is the company’s first storefront in a neighboring suburb. • Opening in August • 1310 W. University Ave., Georgetown • www.birdsbarbershop.com 6 Hotworx The 24-hour infrared fitness studio offers a number of workout classes, including Pilates, yoga and cycling. • Opening in mid-January • 10106 RM 2338, Ste. 210, Georgetown • www.hotworx.net 130 TOLL
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7 Parmer Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics
The practice will provide a number of dental services, including teeth cleanings, imaging, fillings and crowns, implants and veneers, and emergency care. It will be led
1460 3 Anytime Fitness The facility has squat racks, dumbbells, treadmills, 2 Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Owned by franchisee Frank Khattak, the restaurant is known for its steakburgers, hot dogs, shoestring fries and frozen custard desserts. • Opened Sept. 9 • 4620 Williams Drive, Ste. 101A, Georgetown • www.freddys.com
Now open
110 by Dr. Andy Huang. • Opening Dec. 16 • 10104 RM 2338, Ste. 180, Georgetown • www.parmermoderndentistry.com
1 Serenada Mental Health The practice is led by Tabitha Ross, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. • Opened Oct. 1 • 2951 FM 1460, Ste. 1602, Georgetown • www.serenadamentalhealth.com
8 Tesla Supercharger The quick charging stations offer a 15-minute charge, providing up to 200 miles of range.
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Dr. Craig P. Torres D.D.S., Endodontist Board Certified (COL US Army Dental Corps RET) • Non-surgical root canal therapy • Root canal retreatments • Root canal surgery Dr. Gloria T. Torres D.D.S., Prosthodontist (LTC US Army Dental Corps RET) 68 Years Combined Experience (Retired Army Dentists)
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Call for an appointment 512-868-5999 Advanced Technology CEREC (one day all ceramic crowns) Endodontic Microscopes Digital radiography/photography CBCT (3-D) scans Oral/nitrous sedation www.Torres-Dental-Specialties.com
• Restorative Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Full mouth reconstruction
(severe wear/malocclusions) • Complex esthetic and functional cases • Dental implants • Dentures / partial dentures
4402 Williams Drive, Suite 104 • Georgetown, TX • Hours M-F 8-5 • Most insurance accepted
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY CLAIRE SHOOP & GRACIE WARHURST
11 Speedy Stop The convenience store and gas station will move forward with its new location, following Georgetown City Council’s approval of an annexation and rezoning Oct. 28. • 3990 N. I-35, Georgetown • www.speedystop.com 12 Cadence Bank Huntington Bancshares announced in October it would acquire the financial institution. • 711 San Gabriel Village Blvd., Georgetown • www.cadencebank.com 13 Juan & Lupe’s Kitchen The Mexican restaurant opened in Georgetown in October 2020. Menu items include carnitas, carne asada, taco al pastor and other classic Mexican dishes. • 4701 Williams Drive, Bldg. 2, Georgetown • www.juanlupeskitchen.com 14 Platinum Resort Assisted Living & Memory Care Founded by Brett and Laura Chotkevys, the senior care facility welcomed its first residents in November 2020. • 208 Mesa Drive, Georgetown • www.platinumresortassistedliving.com
• Opening TBD • 210 University Blvd., Ste. 700, Round Rock • www.tesla.com
Coming soon
What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS
DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION
9 Chipotle Mexican Grill Construction on the building is set to begin in April, and wrap up in September. This will be the second Chipotle in Georgetown, with the first located off of North Austin Avenue. • 4621 Williams Drive, Georgetown • www.chipotle.com
In the news
15 Volleyworld The volleyball training center will have sessions for children ages four to 18 as well as adults. Offerings include private and group lessons, skill-specific classes, clinics with collegiate and professional athletes, open gym time, strength and conditioning, and tournaments. This is the second location for the business helmed by coach Aaron Garcia, with its first in Pflugerville. • Opening in mid-February • 4701 FM 3405, Georgetown • www.volleyworld.org
10 Crisp & Chew The cookie pickup and delivery service will be able to have a neighborhood commercial space, following Georgetown City Council approval Oct. 28. Sarah Davis owns the bakery, which focuses on oatmeal cookies. • 1612 Williams Drive, Georgetown • www.crispnchew.com
November is a month centered on gratitude, and we want to take a moment and say THANK YOU! The success of our pediatric dental and orthodontic practices is due to the loyal support of our patients and their families. For that we are grateful beyond words. We opened our doors in 2008 and since then we’ve watched infants mature into high schoolers, and many of our first patients are now driving themselves to school! Having a front-row seat to watch your kids (and ours) grow is a true blessing. As parents, small business owners and fellow Georgetown residents, we hope you know how thankful we are for the opportunity to serve you and your family. THANK YOU! Dr. A Dr. Travis Dr. Kenny Dr. Lisa Dr. Kevin
4507 Williams Drive Georgetown • 512.869.4100 GtownKids.com
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
Impacts
Downtown
• Opened Sept. 20 • 101 E. University Ave., Georgetown • www.littlecaesars.com
Now open
4A
1 Uptown Cheapskate The retail store is currently buying stylish, gently- used clothing from the community. Once the location establishes its inventory, it aims to open to shoppers in mid-December. • Opened Oct. 28 2 Sky & Co Jewelry With locations in Georgetown and Taylor, the full- service jewelry store offers custom designs, battery replacement, repairs, engraving, cleaning and appraisals. The company, led by local jeweler Efrain Montes, specializes in engagement rings, bracelets and chains. • Opened Oct. 30 • 723 W. University Ave., Ste. 103, Georgetown • www.skycojewelry.com • 900 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown • www.uptowncheapskate.com 3 Little Caesars Owned by franchisee Rishad Rajabali, the location reopened almost three years after a fire closed the store. The global pizza company offers pick-up and delivery services for pizza, wings and sides, such as Italian cheese bread.
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What's next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS
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4 Monument Commons Office Condos The project consists of two separate two-story office condo buildings, each of which will have space for 11 tenants with conference rooms, offices and restrooms. Construction on the 17,000-square-foot buildings is expected to begin in January and last until October 2028. A 501 Rock St., Georgetown B 205 W. Sixth St., Georgetown
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In the news
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5 Tejas Meat Supply The butcher shop and restaurant opened in Georgetown in October 2020. Tejas Meat Supply offers fresh-cut meats from Texas ranches, as well as charcuterie, beer and wine. • 101 E. Seventh St., Georgetown • www.tejasmeatsupply.com
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UNIVERSITY AVE.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY CLAIRE SHOOP & GRACIE WARHURST
6 Coreena’s Bridal Boutique The wedding dress shop opened near the Georgetown square in September 2020. This is its second location, with the original bridal boutique in College Station. The store sells bridal gowns and accessories. • 806 S. Rock St., Georgetown • www.coreenasbridal.com
Coming soon
In the news
Worth the trip
Williamson County Expo Center County officials celebrated the completion of the expo center’s West Arena project. The expo center received a 175-by-450-foot covered arena, named the Friendship Pavilion. The $10.7 million project also included construction of two 28-by-28-foot covered picnic pavilions and a paved parking area. • Opened Oct. 24 • 5350 Bill Pickett Trail, Taylor • www.wilcotx.gov/1396/williamson-county-expo- center
7 Schoepf’s BBQ Originally expected to open this fall, the restaurant has been delayed. Remodeling efforts still need to occur for the barbecue spot, which has an existing location in Belton. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of barbecued meats, sandwiches,
8 Juliet Social Juliet Italian Kitchen reopened as Juliet Social, a cafe and event space, on Oct. 29, Veneto Hospitality announced. Juliet Social is open for lunch Wednesday-Monday with a cafe-style menu and familiar dishes. The event space will accommodate up to 180 people for private events. The ground floor of the venue will also be open to the public on select days as a speakeasy-style lounge. • 701 S. Main St., Georgetown • www.juliet-austin.com
potatoes and sides. • Opening in January • 820 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown • www.schoepfsbbq.com
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
Government
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Blue Hole Park enhancements to include parking, play features
Georgetown City Council reviewed a plan for $10.15 million of upgrades at Blue Hole Park, including additional parking, updated restrooms, a picnic area and nature play features. “We’re not recommending any sort of typical playground ... equipment here,” Aaron Cooper with consulting rm Hal said during an Oct. 28 City Council workshop. “This could be like rocks and boulders that kids can climb on. It’s very infor- mal. It can just work as even informal seating.” What they’re saying The city has $7 million earmarked for the project. Council members suggested possible ways to cut down on project costs. District 6 council member Jake French recommended removing the parking and road enhancements in this initial plan. District 1 council member Amanda Parr said she would want to explore a phased approach to the project, while still having updated parking.
Park proposal Blue Hole Park’s nal development plan includes: • Two new parking areas accommodating 82 vehicles
• Emergency parking with 15 spots • A sidewalk and pedestrian bridge
• San Gabriel Trail extension • Nature preservation areas
• Paved terraces and maintained lawns • A canoe/kayak launch point on the river • Riverbank stabilization • Intersection and crosswalk improvements
Blue Hole Park is a natural swimming area with picnic and shing amenities.
COURTESY CITY OF GEORGETOWN
“As much as parking is not that attractive, it is one of the highest priorities that came out through feedback,” Parr said. How we got here Hal has worked with the city since September
2024 to prepare a development plan for Blue Hole Park, gathering feedback from more than 2,000 community members. The city plans to fund design this scal year and begin construction in scal year 2026-27.
Protecting You, Your Business & Your Family
Call Us Today! 512-409-3342 ringelbrymerlaw.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY GRACIE WARHURST
The Georgetown Customer Service Center, a facility that will centralize several customer-facing city departments, is projected to open in early 2028, Capital Improvements Project Manager Jennifer Bettiol said at an Oct. 14 meeting. The city has plans for a 75,567-square- foot building to accommodate a projected 283 employees associated with relevant departments in the next 10 years. The project is in design and will be a part of the rst phase of the Southwestern University 560 development. With a $56 million budget, the building will be funded through a 2023 voter- approved bond. City advances service center
Zooming out
In collaboration with Southwestern University, Georgetown plans to locate the new facility in the rst phase of SU 560. The development plans to integrate retail, o ces, research facilities, hous- ing, arts, green space and trails on a tract of land directly to the east of the university. Georgetown City Council gave nal approval to a planned unit development amendment for SU 560 on Oct. 28, which changes the base zoning desig- nation for the land from residential to commercial. Phase 1A of the project will develop 67 acres of the 560-acre property, and is in the early planning and design phase. It will include: • 110,000 square feet of o ce space • 45,000 square feet of retail space • 150 apartment units • 110,000 square feet of hotel and conference space • 38,000 square feet for a cultural venue • 35 acres of open space The building height around the center plaza will
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SU 560 Phase 1A
Southwestern University
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be 1-2 stories, with buildings along the perimeter going up to 3-4 stories. The amendment included a motion by District 5 council member Kevin Pitts to conduct a future mobility plan to assess area tra c needs. The city is working with SU 560 developer Banbury as planning progresses to coordinate construction, roads, utility and other infrastruc- ture needs. Additionally, Georgetown o cials are working closely with SU o cials to ensure the development is consistent with the city’s land use policies and future planning, city sta said.
The Customer Service Center will bring together the following departments:
Fire and bui ding inspections
Customer care and askGTX
Code enforcement
What they’re saying
Internet techno ogy and systems engineering
Human Resources
Economic deve opment and p anning
“This is the beginning of a very long and very close partnership on a very, very important project that we are going to be
“I think it’s going to be a really wonderful addition to our community, and we’re excited to be a part of it.” JENNIFER BETTIOL, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT MANAGER
intimately involved in as the anchor tenant of this phase.” JOSH SCHROEDER, GEORGETOWN MAYOR
Rea estate
Remote po ice o ce
Possib e data center
What’s next
“There will be more phases and there’s been some very preliminary looks at that, but we’re not in a position yet to describe those,” Adams said at an Oct. 14 City Council meeting. Future phases will be realized through additional PUD amendments, he said.
As for the future of the SU 560 development, potential options for Phase 1B include turning parking lots in the rst phase into sites for commercial, residential or civic spaces, each with an encapsulated parking garage, said Jim Adams with McCann Adams Studio, the project’s architect and urban designer.
City sta will bring renderings and layouts for the Customer Service Center building to City Council early next year, Bettiol said. In the meantime, the city is working on soliciting a construction manager at risk. The building is projected to open in early 2028, Bettiol said.
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
Government
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Georgetown proposes speed bump alternatives Georgetown officials are considering removing speed bumps from its list of adopted traffic calm- ing measures in the proposed 2025 Neighborhood Traffic Management policy. The details Speed calming measures such as roundabouts, speed-activated signs and speed bumps help reduce vehicle speeds and decrease crash fre- quency, according to city documents. While measures such as speed bumps, humps and cushions can reduce speed by 15-20 mph, they can also hinder emergency vehicles and contribute to noise pollution, Georgetown Transportation Manager Lua Saluone said at an Oct. 28 City Council workshop. Although these measures reduce traffic by 20%, they can create a backup elsewhere, pushing traffic onto neighboring roads, Saluone said. The 2025 Neighborhood Traffic Management policy proposes removing speed humps, raised intersections and crosswalks, full closures, and one-way streets from the list of approved traffic calming measures. GFiber to increase local internet options Georgetown residents will soon have access to GFiber high-speed internet, following City Council’s approval of a license agreement with the service provider Oct. 14. How it works GFiber, formerly Google Fiber, will start construction in the southeast portion of the city in 2026, according to a news release. Users can gain service as portions of the network are completed. The installation involves microtrenching, or underground channels along roads, curbs and sidewalks to install the fiber cables. “Our intent when we come into this community would be to build our network to pass every resident and small business,” John-Michael Cortez, head of government and media affairs for GFiber in Texas, said.
$800M to be invested in WilCo hospitals The Ascension Seton Health Alliance, a network of doctors and hospitals in the Aus- tin metro area, will invest $800 million in its Williamson County facilities after the county approved the issuance of bonds Oct. 28. The breakdown ASHA has plans to improve some of its existing facilities throughout the state, amounting to more than $1 billion, Jerry Kyle, a partner at public finance firm Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe, said at a Commis- sioners Court meeting Oct. 28.
Measures remaining in the policy, include: Slowing speeds
Roundabouts and traffic circles
Traffic enforcement
Road markings
Speed-activated signs and radars
Chokers that narrow the roadway
New measures proposed in the policy include:
Intersection curb extensions
S-curves in streets
SOURCE: CITY OF GEORGETOWN/COMMUNITY IMPACT
About the program Georgetown’s Neighborhood Traffic Manage- ment program allows residents to address con- cerns about speeding, traffic and safety. Homeowner and neighborhood groups can request traffic studies and improvements on exist- ing city streets through an application process, as long as they have support from a majority of residents. Approved projects are evaluated and implemented based on eligibility and funding. Property owners receive tax bill from county Williamson County property taxes are due soon, and become delinquent, incurring penalty and interest, Feb. 1. Most property owners received their 2025 property tax statements in late October, after they were mailed out beginning Oct. 21, according to a county news release. Something to note Statements for about 55,000 properties in the city of Austin, Liberty Hill ISD, Taylor ISD, Coupland ISD and the Anderson Mill Limited District were delayed until after the Nov. 4 general election, as voters were asked to approve these entities’ adopted rates. Locally, Liberty Hill ISD voters approved the district’s tax rate election, with 52.19% of voters supporting the measure. This allows the district to have a maintenance
Area upgrades
Ascension Seton Emergency Center in Leander: $20M Ascension Seton Wound Care Center in Cedar Park: $25M Seton Williamson Hospital
in Round Rock: $275M Ascension Seton Cedar Park Hospital: $480M
Total: $800M
SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
What you need to know Taxpayers can pay their bill online through www.wilcotx.gov/taxoffice or utilize payment drop boxes located at all Williamson County tax office locations
For more information, visit https://tax.wilcotx.gov
Questions can be directed to propertytax@wilcotx.gov or 512-943-1601
and operations tax rate of $0.7389 per $100 valu- ation, which is about $0.07 higher than the fiscal year 2024-25 M&O tax rate of $0.6669 per $100 valuation. The interest and sinking tax rate would remain at $0.50 per $100 valuation, making for a combined tax rate of $1.2389 per $100 valuation. The increased tax rate will generate $10.7 million in additional revenue to invest $7.2 million in student programs, $2.2 million into teacher and staff retention, and $1.3 million in safety and security initiatives.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
When facing cancer, where you go rst matters
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Visit MDAnderson.org to request an appointment.
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
180443_GSDM-P00115735-CommunityImpact_105C.indd 1
10/23/25 9:31 AM
MEDICARE OR HEALTH INSURANCE QUESTIONS?
You have many choices for your Health Insurance Plan. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLAN FOR YOU?
Medicare Annual Election Period: 10/15/25 - 12/7/25 Health Insurance Open Enrollment: 11/1/25 - 1/15/26
Contact me for a FREE consultation. I am a local, independent agent who oers personalized help with your individual health insurance or Medicare. Call me to discuss your Medicare Health Plan options including Medicare Supplement, and Medicare Advantage. Anna Harris Licensed Sales Agent Georgetown/Austin Office: 512-884-2483 Cell: 713-254-6004 www.annaharrisinsurance.com | anna@annaharrisinsurance.com We do not oer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans in your area that we do oer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare to get information on all of your options.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY CHLOE YOUNG
Science-based charter school opens
A closer look
Harmony Science Academy students take classes in computer science and robotics, and engage with advanced technology such as 3D printers, drones and laser printing. In kindergarten, students begin learning coding, and they start using Python, a high-level programming language, by sixth grade, Gregory said. The school also provides additional math instruction time and students can join a math academy in fth grade to complete coursework that is two grade levels ahead of their peers, Principal Abdullah Suzek said. Students will have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement, dual-credit and OnRamps courses to receive college credit before graduation. Additionally, the school o ers art, music and athletics programs.
The school had over 2,300 applicants this year, said Mustafa Altindag, Central Texas area superintendent for Harmony Public Schools. Harmony Science Academy will o er an additional grade level each school year. In the fall of 2026, the school is expected to break ground on a new building for middle and high school students that will open in 2028, Chief Development O cer Gina Gregory said.
Harmony Science Academy Georgetown welcomed more than 480 prekindergarten through sixth grade students in August. The 50,000-square-foot campus is located o I-35 in southeast Georgetown. The Texas-based public charter school’s curriculum focuses on science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, education and preparing students for college.
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BLUE SPRINGS BLVD.
Harmony Public Schools leaders, educators and students celebrated the opening of Harmony Science Academy Georgetown at a ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 17.
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GEORGETOWN EDITION
Education
BY CHLOE YOUNG
GISD shares rst rezoning proposal
The impact
The construction of Middle School No. 5 and Elementary School No. 12 comes as GISD experi- ences signi cant growth, GISD o cials said. The district’s enrollment is expected to increase from 13,800 students to nearly 20,000 students over the next decade, according to data from Zonda Demographics. The new attendance zones would reduce the number of students attending Carver, Cooper, Mitchell, Purl, Williams and Wolf Ranch elemen- taries, lowering the utilization of Wolf Ranch from 101.4% to 76.2%. San Gabriel Elementary’s enrollment would increase from 353 to 581 students. Ford, McCoy and Village elementaries would maintain a similar number of students. Enrollment would decrease at Benold, Tippit and Wagner middle schools while slightly increas- ing at Forbes. Middle School No. 5 would welcome around 500 students in the fall.
• 200 students from Carver Elementary to Williams Elementary Additionally, the new attendance zones would move some middle school students: • From Forbes and Wagner middle schools to Middle School No. 5 • From Tippit and Forbes middle schools to Wagner Middle School • From Benold Middle School to Tippit and Forbes middle schools Under the new zones, all Purl Elementary students would attend Wagner Middle School instead of Tippit and Forbes middle schools, He in said. Some students may be allowed to stay at their current campus through grandfathering, he said.
Georgetown ISD o cials have released their rst draft of new attendance zones for next school year. By February, the board of trustees will vote to rezone some students to accommodate the opening of Elementary School No. 12 and Middle School No. 5 in August while balancing enrollment across current campuses, Chief of Strategic Operations Lannon He in said at a Nov. 4 board workshop. Across elementary campuses, the rezoning proposal would move roughly: • 470 students from Cooper and Williams elementaries to Elementary School No. 12 • 230 students from Wolf Ranch Elementary to San Gabriel Elementary • 130 students from Wolf Ranch Elementary to Frost Elementary
Sun City*
Cooper
What they’re saying
McCoy
Ford
Frost
San Gabriel
To garner community feedback on rezoning, the district formed a committee of parents and received comments from over 2,100 people through an online survey. Parents’ top three concerns were campus safety as it relates to their school’s size, the campus’s proximity to their home, and academic programs and achievement, according to district data. Trustee Jennifer Mauldin expressed concerns that 82.7% of students at Elementary School No. 12 would have a low socioeconomic status. Similarly, Middle School No. 5 would have 61.9% low socioeconomic students, the most of any middle school.
Village
ES 12
Elementary school zones
Purl
Mitchell
The proposed Elementary School No. 12 boundary includes much of the current Williams zone as well as some of the Cooper zone.
Wolf Ranch
Williams
Carver
Sun City*
Benold
Forbes
Get involved Parents may provide feedback at the following town hall events from 6-7 p.m. • Dec. 9 at Wolf Ranch Elementary • Dec. 11 at Williams Elementary
MS 5
Middle school zones The proposed Middle School No. 5 boundary includes some of the current Wagner and Forbes zones.
Wagner
Tippit
• Jan. 28 at Carver Elementary • Jan. 29 at Tippit Middle School • Feb. 5 at Purl Elementary
*SUN CITY IS AN AGE RESTRICTED COMMUNITY AND IS NOT ZONED TO ATTEND DISTRICT SCHOOLS.
SOURCE: GEORGETOWN ISD COMMUNITY IMPACT
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY CHLOE YOUNG
District to consider name nominations for schools In early November, Georgetown ISD community members were asked to submit their nominations to name two new schools opening in August. Following the input period, district staff will review all nominations and present their recom- mendations to the board of trustees for approval. The details In May, GISD broke ground on its 12th elemen- tary school and fifth middle school off Patriot Way and SH 130 near East View High School. The new facilities must be named after one of the following: • A historical or geographical site or community • A local, state or national historical event or place • A significant local, state or national figure • A person who has made a significant contribu- tion to education in the district
GISD to enhance cellular coverage
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130 TOLL
The Georgetown ISD board of trustees approved allocating nearly $1 million in bond funds Oct. 20 to improve cellular signal equipment at some campuses. What you need to know The upgrades will take place at Frost Elementary, the Future Ready Complex, San Gabriel Elementary and Benold Middle School. Work began at the end of October and is projected to be complete on Jan. 1, according to GISD documents. The why The cellular enhancements are intended to improve emergency communication between staff and first responders. The projects are the first of GISD’s efforts to improve connectivity districtwide.
Elementary School No. 12 Middle School No. 5
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The elementary and middle school campuses are intended to help GISD support fast enrollment growth by accommodating 850 students and 950 students, respectively. Quote of note “Naming a school is one of the most meaningful ways we can celebrate our community’s history, values and people,” Superintendent Devin Padavil said in a news release. “Each campus name tells a story about who we are and what we stand for in Georgetown ISD.”
17
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Development
BY CLAIRE SHOOP
Samsung site in Taylor progresses
The background
Construction on the $17 billion Taylor site began in 2022. To date, Glaze said the 1,200-acre campus, totaling 4 million square feet, is home to:
concept cubicles, atriums, a tness center and a meditation space. Additionally, the site is landscaped with Georgia loblolly pines, a lazy river that runs through the campus and a Texas-shaped water fountain. About 1,000 Samsung employees will move into the Taylor site over the rst two quarters, Glaze said, adding that this doesn’t include additional sta needed for security, hospitality and landscaping.
Some Samsung Austin Semiconductor employees will move into the new o ce building at the manufacturer’s Taylor campus by the end of November, Michele Glaze, senior director of communications and community a airs, said. Glaze, speaking at a Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon Oct. 8, said the six-story o ce building boasts a number of amenities, including two cafeterias, open-
• The o ce building • A fabrication plant • Two gas and chemical supply buildings • A utility station and building • An electrical substation • Water and wastewater facilities
• Two water tanks • Three warehouses • 250 construction trailers
Samsung Austin Semiconductor Taylor campus
401
3349
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What’s next
S U
Glaze said the rst fab—or fabrication plant where manufacturing takes place—will be operational by the end of 2026. Using advanced techniques, the facility hopes to make some of the smallest semiconductor chips used for arti cial intelligence, Glaze said. Samsung Austin Semiconductor has room to grow in Taylor, as the company’s economic development agreements are for up to 10 fabs. However, Glaze said demand for semiconductor chips and geopolitical factors will drive when these subsequent fabs are built.
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The rst nonconstruction employees are set to move into the Samsung campus in Taylor when its o ce building opens in November. (Matthew Brooks/Community Impact)
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Development
BY GRACIE WARHURST
City lands manufacturing facility for tech company Pegatron
Pegatron Corporation, a Taiwan-based electron- ics manufacturing company, plans to locate its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Georgetown, according to an Oct. 27 city news release. The company acquired a 168,784-square-foot industrial building in the Blue Springs devel- opment near SE Inner Loop and Blue Springs
lasting, positive impact on our community and the broader region for generations.” About the company Pegatron works on design and manufacturing for a wide range of electronics, such as laptops, smartphones, game consoles and smart home devices. The company is also involved with hardware needed for data centers. With a global headquarters in Taiwan, Pegatron also has manufacturing facilities and service centers in China, Japan, Australia and Mexico. The company has two service centers in the U.S., though the Georgetown location will be its first manufacturing facility. What’s next Both Georgetown City Council and Williamson County commissioners court will consider eco- nomic development agreements based on Pega- tron’s capital investments and job opportunities.
Pegatron Corporation site
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SOUTHWEST BYP.
Boulevard. The details
1460
BLUE SPRINGS BLVD.
Pegatron officials will start construction on the Georgetown facility before the end of the year, the news release states. The company will invest a minimum of $35 million in capital in the city, and will hire at least 100 employees within the first three years of opening. “The jobs and investment this corporation is bringing to Georgetown mark a milestone in our community’s economic growth,” Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder said in the news release. “Their decision to put down roots here will have a
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“Williamson County is gaining an international reputation as the place to launch and expand a company in the technology manufacturing indus- try,” County Judge Steve Snell said in the news release. “Pegatron’s commitment to our county will have a lasting impact on jobs not just for our generation, but also for our children.”
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19
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Development
Former Weslyan building lands statewide org HQ The Texas Municipal League and its partner organization, the TML Intergovernmental Risk Pool, which provides insurance and risk manage- ment services to Texas cities, will relocate their headquarters to downtown Georgetown. What’s happening The organizations will move from North Austin to 205 E. University Ave., Georgetown—the former Wesleyan building. TML Risk Pool plans to reno- vate the site into the Texas Municipal Center, with flexible office space and technology upgrades, according to a city news release. The building’s renovation has cleared an initial review by the city’s Historic and Architectural Review Committee, with zoning updates and construction anticipated to follow. Completion of the Texas Municipal Center is planned for 2029.
Construction begins on flex, retail space St. John Properties broke ground on Lean- der Tech Park, a 50-acre mixed-use business development, Oct. 16. Learn more The project will include two flex build- ings, which can be used by a range of tenants, including light manufacturing and distribution companies. They are expected to be completed in summer 2026. The retail property will be completed in fall 2026.
The former Wesleyan building will be home to the new Texas Municipal Center.
11THST.
UNIVERSITY AVE.
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What they’re saying “We couldn’t be more excited ... for TML and the Risk Pool to move their headquarters to beautiful downtown Georgetown,” Mayor Josh Schroeder said. “I believe this will only strengthen their ability to do the critical work they do in serving communities across the great state of Texas.”
29
RONALD REAGAN BLVD.
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20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY KATLYNN FOX & GRACIE WARHURST
Company receives WilCo tax incentives Labatt Food Services, a U.S.-based distributor, will build a new warehouse and facilities near I-35 and Ronald Reagan Boulevard. Diving in deeper At an Oct. 21 meeting, Williamson County commissioners approved a 30% property tax reduction for 10 years in return for the company's $42 million investment and the hiring of 150 permanent employees.
GAF Energy centralizes operations in Georgetown GAF Energy, a solar roofing manufacturing com- pany, will move its headquarters to its Georgetown plant in December. The solar company plans to close its San Jose headquarters and lay off 138 employees on Dec. 13, according to a California Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification filed by GAF Energy. The San Jose factory was GAF Energy’s first facility, and opened in 2021. What’s next Manufacturing operations for the company will now be based out of the 450,000-square-foot Georgetown facility, which opened in May 2024. The Georgetown facility produces GAF’s Timber- line Solar, a nailable solar shingle. The company received incentives from the city to build, and plans to invest more than $100 million in the facility in the next 10 years.
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BLUE SPRINGS BLVD.
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In their own words “In light of ongoing changes in the solar indus- try, we are aligning our business and our team to focus on key markets where solar is most compel- ling for builders and homeowners. The changes we are making include centralizing all Operations, Manufacturing and Research & Development at our headquarters in Georgetown, Texas to drive efficiencies, foster stronger collaboration and partnership amongst teams, and better serve customers,” a GAF Energy spokesperson said in a statement.
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21
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Transportation
Air tra c control tower sta ng falls short of ABIA passenger increases
Some context
The tower at ABIA is one of the most under- sta ed in the nation, operating at only 45% of its target sta ng level, Doggett said. Doggett said the air tra c control tower is down to just 27 of the 60 needed controllers. Tower controllers are assigned to airports based on sta ng needs and quali cations, rather than their preferred location, agency documents state. The FAA may o er incentives for control- lers willing to work in low-sta ed airports. According to the FAA’s Air Tra c Controller Workforce Plan 2025-2028, today’s challenges are linked to the current hiring pipeline. The plan cites three major events that weakened its ability to train new controllers: • The March 2013 government sequester, which imposed federal spending cuts • The 35-day government shutdown beginning in December 2018 • The COVID-19 pandemic These disruptions contribute to sta ng challenges that persist today, the report states, noting the high turnover rate for new trainees. According to the workforce plan, “academy attrition” is the single largest projected source of controller loss between 2024-28, accounting for 3,206 of the 6,872 total expected losses. More controllers are projected to be lost during training than from retirements, promotions and resignations combined. The agency launched a hiring campaign in late 2024 bringing on 2,026 new controllers, with plans to hire 8,900 total by 2028. Yet with 6,872 departures anticipated over that time, the net gain results in just over 2,000 controllers.
Flight delays can feel random but Austin’s tarmac backups are just the tip of a countrywide air tra c system under strain. The air tra c control tower at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is one of the most understa ed in the country, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett said, yet the problem isn’t unique to Austin, or even Texas. A history of disrupted training pipelines, high academy turnover and challenging qualifying standards have resulted in understa ed towers across the nation. As ABIA expands, o cials worry tower sta ng may not keep pace with growth—posing risks to safety and the region’s economy. Local near-miss incidents coupled with rising employee stress hint at an agency struggling to keep pace with demand, further revealing local delays are part of broader challenges across
U.S. air tra c control. The recent government shutdown also contributed to delays. Since late 2022, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has seen six near-catastrophic events, per Federal Aviation Administration incident data. Just last October, an American Airlines jet carrying 122 passengers nearly collided with a single-engine Cessna plane—coming within 350 feet of each other. The reason most often reported is a shortage in air tra c controller sta ng. However, the reality includes a mix of tough working conditions, red tape and systemwide problems that go beyond a simple headcount, said Ashley Lane, a former ABIA air tra c controller of eight years, now a contracted instructor. “[Flying] is safe, but it’s not as safe as it could be,” Lane said.
Federal Aviation Administration sta ng at AUS tower Certi ed Professional Controller FAA established target tower sta ng X
CPC in training
60
20 10 30 40 50 60
42
38
0
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025*
*THROUGH FEBRUARY
SOURCE: FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
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