The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Bastrop Cedar Creek Edition VOLUME 3, ISSUE 4 JUNE 27 JULY 31, 2026
2026 Health Care Edition
Closer to care Bastrop explores path to full-service hospital
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
For years, Bastrop residents have left the area for specialty and inpatient care. Now, city leaders are studying whether a full-service, acute care hospital could work closer to home. In April, Bastrop City Council advanced a second round of analysis after reviewing a feasibility study by health care consulting rm Pershing Yoakley & Associates. The study examined demographics, inpatient demand, patient migration and market conditions across a 37-ZIP-code service area—or about a 30-minute drive—surrounding Bastrop. Among its ndings: facilities in Bastrop are “insu cient,” and the region is short about 523 hospital beds—forcing 97% of residents to leave for inpatient, specialty and acute care. “Ninety-seven percent of our people leave the area for care. Ninety-seven percent,” Bastrop City Manager Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino said. “If that isn’t an opportunity [for a hospital], I don’t know what is.”
130
35
21
77
3
290
2
4
1
71
5
95
290
290
Bastrop
21
35
Proposed hospital location
71
CONTINUED ON 12
130
Proposed service area
Inside this issue
10
77
10
130
N
1 Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas: 3% 2 Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin: 7% 3 St. David’s North Austin Medical Center: 18% 4 St. David’s Medical Center: 21% 5 St. David’s South Austin Medical Center: 21% Others: 30%
Where do Bastrop patients go? The map shows where Bastrop-area patients are traveling for care according to researchers.
Impacts
7
97% of Bastrop residents left the region for care in 2024.
SOURCES: CITY OF BASTROP, PERSHING YOAKLEY & ASSOCIATES COMMUNITY IMPACT
Events
19
Because kids keep you on your toes
We’re right here when you need us
From unexpected fevers, tummy aches and injuries to sports physicals and vaccinations, Jeanet Tannous, MD, is here to keep your child healthy and thriving. Ask about flexible and same-day appointments right here in the neighborhood for newborns through teens.
Ascension Seton Elgin Health Center 200 Roy Rivers Road, Elgin, TX 78621 737-200-6400
Jeanet Tannous, MD Pediatrics
Book now for trusted care close to home
Ascension Texas © Ascension 2026. All rights reserved.
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
CELEBRATE OUR COMMUNITY. HONOR OUR FREEDOM
512-332-8862 | CITYOFBASTROP.ORG/BIGBANG
CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK @ BASTROP PUBLIC LIBRARY
3
BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION
Proud to support the neighborhood
Protecting You, Your Business & Your Family Call Us Today! 512-409-3342 ringelbrymerlaw.com 715 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, TX 78602
Lori Tuggle ChFC® CLU® Agent 815 Highway 71 W Unit D
Bastrop. TX 78602-3591 Bus: 512-581-3939 www.lorituggleagency.com
State Farm Bloomington, IL
MEMBER-OWNED. COMMUNITY DRIVEN. Day and night, rain or shine; The staff at Aqua WSC are your neighbors, your community, and your dedicated water professionals. Delivering clean, safe water to your home is not just what we do. It is who we are. Water is a precious resource, and we take that responsibility personally. 24/7 Always on call for our members 100% Member-owned and community led 56 Years Established in the community
MobilityAuthority.com/tags
MORE ON SUMMER SPEND LESS ON TOLLS
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
About Community Impact
Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 65+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, and Dallas-Fort Worth metros.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Brittany Anderson Katlynn Fox Jessica McLaren Bailey Meyers Michael Milliorn Jillian Nachtigal Hannah Norton Daniel Schwalm Hamera Shabbir Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt
Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com
Minh Nguyen Laura Patino Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Product Manager Breanna Flores Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara
Amanda Cutshall Editor acutshall@ communityimpact.com
Travis Baker Austin Market President tbaker@ communityimpact.com
Contact us
16225 Impact Way, P ugerville, TX 78660 • 512 989 6808 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases basnews@communityimpact.com Advertising basads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
Proudly printed by
© 2026 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
Connect on social
@communityimpactatx
@communityimpactatx
5
BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION
GORDON ST.
Impacts
BUTTONWOOD ST.
5 6 7 8
FISHERMAN'S PARK
95
2
9
PINEST.
10
4
11
150
71
PEARCE LN.
304
WALNUTST.
535
AUSTINST.
71
21
EMILE ST.
71
71
1
LOVERS LN.
NAVARRO BLVD.
3
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2026 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Bastrop-Cedar Creek
111 administrative and operational functions for the Bastrop ISD Police Department while also housing maintenance, custodial, groundskeeping, warehouse and print shop operations. Construction on the project was funded through the district’s $321.5 million bond package approved by voters in 2023. • Opened May 28 • 1105 Lovers Lane, Bastrop • www.bisdtx.org 3 Bastrop ISD Facilities Support & Police Administration Building The 55,000-square-foot building supports 4 Healing Hands Community Thrift Store Operated by the Methodist Healthcare Ministries, proceeds from the resale shop fund job support services, including workplace English classes, employment-related necessities such as tools and clothing, and emergency assistance such as utility support after job loss. • Opened in April • Cedar Creek United Methodist Church campus, 5630 FM 535, Annex A, Cedar Creek • Facebook: Healing Hands Community Thrift Store
Coming soon
111
5 The Toasted Yolk Cafe The Texas-based restaurant specializes in a scratch- made menu featuring variations of classic breakfast and brunch dishes like eggs Benedict and chicken and wa es, and lunch options such as brisket tacos, sandwiches, salads and more. The 1,500-square-foot patio will o er a pet-speci c menu. • Opening July 27 • Sendero, 853 SH 71 W., Ste. 150, Bastrop • www.thetoastedyolk.com 6 Crust Pizza Co. The restaurant will bring Chicago-style thin-crust pizzas alongside a wide variety of appetizers, pastas and desserts to the Sendero development. The family- friendly restaurant will ll 2,500 square feet indoors and o er a 350-square-foot patio. • Opening in late July • Sendero, 853 SH 71 W., Ste. 158, Bastrop • www.crustpizzaco.com/locations/TX/bastrop
Now open
1 Wisdom House Realty Group Co-founders Liana and Matt Walker, along with six other real estate agents, o er a holistic approach to investing in a home. The Walkers said that means providing educational resources on home improvement, networking opportunities and other tools to help clients make informed decisions. • Opened June 1 • Community Gardens, 1067 SH 71 W., Ste. A, Bastrop • www.wisdomhousetx.com 2 ATI Physical Therapy The provider focuses on treating joint and muscle conditions through core specialty programs and therapies, including dry needling, hand therapy, injury screenings, rehabilitation and sports medicine. Those interested can request an appointment online. • Opened May 26 • Burleson Crossing East, 663 SH 71 W., Ste. 115, Bastrop • https://locations.atipt.com/texas/bastrop/78602
WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. Maela Hughes (512) 999-1445 Maela.Hughes@remax.net BastropSells.com
807 Main St. Bastrop, TX 78602
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
7 Texas Roadhouse The restaurant o ers hand-cut steaks and other proteins; scratch-made sides; and freshly baked dinner rolls served with whipped honey-cinnamon butter. • Opening in mid-July • Sendero, 829 SH 71 W., Bastrop • www.texasroadhouse.com/locations/bastrop 8 Scooter’s Co ee After weather-related delays, the drive-thru drink franchise has a new opening date. Scooter’s serves co ees, teas, lemonades and energy drinks; build- your-own smoothies and blenders; breakfast burritos; sandwiches; baked goods; and pet-friendly treats. • Opening Aug. 24 • Sendero, 821 SH 71 W., Bastrop • www.scooterscoffee.com
Now open
Expansions
10 Espadas De Brazil Bar & Brazilian Steakhouse
11 HEB Plus The community celebrated the end of nearly two years of renovations May 22 with a grand reopening celebration. The now-140,000-square- foot store underwent a series of changes, including expanded and remodeled departments throughout the store. O cials said the $30 million expansion allows for more convenient food options in Bastrop’s fast-growing community. • 104 N. Hasler Blvd., Bastrop • www.heb.com
Owner Robinson Figueiredo o ers a Brazilian rodízio, or all-you-can-eat, experience in the former Stem & Stone space—which closed late last year. The churrasco, a Brazilian barbecue style, features large cuts of meat seasoned with coarse salt, cooked over an open ame on metal skewers, and served tableside. • Opened June 4
Relocations
9 Germer Insurance Business owners and brothers Greg Germer and Gary Germer Jr. will move their independent broker agency July 15 from 799 SH 71 W., Bastrop, to the former Relics Artisan Jewelry & Gifts, which closed in February. • 925 Main St., Bastrop • www.germerinsurance.com
• 1507 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.espadasdebrazil.com
Auto | Home | Commercial Boat | RV | Travel Trailer | & More
Large Enough for Real Insurance, Small Enough for Real Service
Let us help you protect what matters most to you
Connect with us today insurance4texas.com 512-303-3008
7
BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION
Government
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & DARCY SPRAGUE
Bastrop County backs SpaceX for up to $3.75M in state incentives SpaceX plans to invest $855 million to expand production of next-generation Starlink user termi- nal kits at its Bastrop County facility, said Damien Barrera, SpaceX’s senior tax manager, adding that the company plans to produce more than 10 million kits by the end of 2026. Sorting out the details Bastrop County Commissioners approved designating SpaceX as an Enterprise Project, which allows the company to apply for state tax incen- tives of $7,500 per employee, up to $3.75 million. SpaceX currently has more than 1,500 employ- ees in Bastrop and has already met its employment requirements, such as sta ng 35% of its workforce with locals, Barrera said. The funding would support the creation of
SpaceX’s Starlink expansion
1 Bastrop advances proposed sex o ender work restrictions Council gave initial approval to expand the city’s 1,000-foot sex o ender bu er zone to include some workplaces. A second reading was expected June 23, after publication. 2 Bastrop OKs security upgrades after Fairview Cemetery theft The city reallocated $50,000 of unused salary funds to upgrade security and replace equipment that was reportedly stolen from Fairview Cemetery in May. More Bastrop government news 3 stories we’re following online
969
C O L O R A D O R I V
1209
Bastrop
N
North America’s largest cleanroom and improve- ments to infrastructure at the Bastrop facility. What they’re saying Bastrop County Commissioners said during the May 26 meeting that the vote does not approve local tax breaks or permits, but did make it possi- ble for SpaceX to apply for the state program.
3 $477K Mayfest makeover underway ahead of rodeo
Mayfest Park upgrades, including new seating and shade covers, are moving forward ahead of the 79th Bastrop Homecoming and Rodeo, July 28-Aug. 1.
The Lodge at Lost Pines Apartment Homes
Fin You Peacefu Retrea I Bastro.
3950 Hwy 71 East, Bastrop, TX | 512-321-5320 | bastroptexasapartments.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
®️
+ +
$0 tuition at Austin Community College (ACC). High school graduates from the class of 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027 & 2028 in ACC’s service area may qualify.
+
No income restrictions. No GPA requirements.
Santana G. & Apollo F.
LEARN MORE & APPLY FOR FREE AT austincc.edu/freetuition
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
3 Bastrop County transportation updates to know
Upcoming project
Upcoming project
Ongoing project
95
Bastrop
1
BLAKEY LN.
230
2A
2B
JESSICA PL.
3
290
EDWARD BURLESON LN.
E. PARMER LN.
SCHAEFER BLVD.
95
Elgin
Smithville
95
130 TOLL
71
535
OLD AUSTIN HWY.
N
N
N
1 Hwy. 290 enhancements Project: Tolled main lanes could be extended along a 15-mile stretch with signalized intersections and pedestrian infrastructure. Update: An environmental study and schematic design are underway, with the first draft schematics expected this summer. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority internal funds (feasibility and design)
2 Blakey Lane extension Project: The road will be extended from Edward Burleson Lane, traveling east and south, to Old Austin Highway. Update: Officials are finalizing plans for a route using 2A a new roadway or 2B Jessica Place. • Timeline: Construction is expected to begin later this summer. • Cost: $7 million-$8 million • Funding sources: transportation impact fees; roadway maintenance funds; water and wastewater fees
3 SH 95 improvements Project: TxDOT is upgrading SH 95 from SL 230 to south of FM 535 from a two-lane rural roadway to a three-lane urban roadway with a left-turn lane, as well as adding sidewalks, ramps, handrails and pedestrian signals. Update: Construction began in early 2026. Crews are now installing city water lines. Roadway improvements will follow. • Timeline: January 2026-October 2029 • Cost: $14 million • Funding source: TxDOT Category 2 state funds
9
BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION
∙ Get updated vaccines ∙ See a full picture of your child’s health ∙ Ask learning and behavioral questions ∙ Complete camp and sports paperwork
ARCcheckup.com Book now
Healthy Together All Summer Long Now Oering Endocrinology
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH | FAMILY MEDICINE | OB/GYN | PEDIATRICS | DENTAL ENDOCRINOLOGY | PHARMACY | SENIOR CARE | VISION
1 Location Near You LoneStarCares.org Serving Central Texas Schedule Your Same Day, Next Day, Well Visit, or Virtual Visit Appointment Today 1.877.800.5722 Most Insurances Accepted
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Health care
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Health Care Edition
2026
Welcome to Community Impact’s annual Health Care Edition This special edition is packed with vital health care news and information relevant speci cally to Bastrop and Cedar Creek residents. As our community continues to experience rapid growth, keeping up with local medical infrastructure is more important than ever. In this issue, we dive into the city’s latest steps toward bringing a full-service hospital to our area, breaking down the latest feasibility study and what the newest data says about our community’s demand and viability. We’re also highlighting how St. David’s Foundation grants are funding four maternal health initiatives in Bastrop, along with the latest developments in local maternal and pediatric services—o ering a clearer look at the care available close to home. You’ll nd updates on PHI Air Medical’s expanded Cedar Creek services, including new tools and skills for critically ill patients, as well as insight regarding the rising cost of health care. I hope you enjoy reading the hard work of our local journalists who cover Bastrop and Cedar Creek, and learning more about the latest health care developments in our community. Thank you for your readership and for your support of the local advertisers who make it possible to keep you informed.
What's inside
Learn about area nonpro ts helping Bastrop mothers and babies (Pages 14 15)
Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com
Lawmakers study rising health care costs (Page 16)
See what Cedar Creek air medics are doing to help critically ill patients (Page 17)
Silver Sponsor
For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!
3 health care updates from Bastrop-area medical systems
1 Ascension Seton Bastrop Megan Drake was appointed president of the emergency hospital April 15. She brings seven years of experience as chief operating o cer for St. David’s HealthCare and recently served at the St. David’s South Austin Medical Center. Also in April, the facility added a high-resolution ultrasound system to support a range of medical services, including emergency care, cardiac evaluations, central line placement, obstetrics, wound care and ophthalmology.
2 Ascension Seton Smithville Hospital The Level IV trauma center received a designation of Critical Access Hospital from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in December. O cials said the designation is part of a federal program designed to keep essential services in rural areas by providing enhanced Medicare reimbursement. This status helps smaller, rural hospitals improve their nancial stability and maintain services that might otherwise be at risk.
3 Heart Hospital of Austin The facility recently became the rst in Central Texas to o er a cutting-edge photon-counting computed tomography, or CT, scanner designed to generate high-resolution images with greater diagnostic consistency for physicians treating pulmonary and cardiology patients. The technology converts X-ray photons directly into electrical signals without information loss, producing ultra-high-resolution imaging beyond what a conventional CT can do and allowing physicians to obtain all relevant CT data in a single scan.
Bastrop
71
Smithville
Austin
304
71
N
N
N
630 SH 71, Bastrop https://bit.ly/ascension-seton-bastrop
1201 Hill Road, Smithville https://bit.ly/ascension-seton-smithville
3801 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin https://bit.ly/heart-hospital-austin
11
BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION
Closer to care From the cover
Bastrop region to outpace state growth
What’s happening
O cials said population growth will increase demand for local inpatient and specialty care.
The 26-acre hospital site is proposed within Bastrop West, a roughly 400-acre mixed- use development near FM 20 and SH 71 that could also host a hotel and convention center, multifamily housing, and retail and dining options. About 609,000 residents live in the study area, which is projected to grow about 2% annually through 2030—double the 1% annual growth rate projected statewide, according to data from the Texas Demographic Center. PYA researchers said the Bastrop area’s acute care facilities are “insu cient,” with just one hospital o ering eight inpatient beds at Ascension Seton Smithville, compared to a demand of about 523. The ndings build on concerns that residents, providers and community leaders have discussed for years—even before the closure of St. Mark’s Medical Center in La Grange in 2023, which Carrillo-Trevino said was “a big deal” and “a big factor” in talks about the hospital study area.
Place
2025 population 2030 projected population
Annual growth rate
2.03%
Bastrop County
116,842
129,177
Study area
609,000
~672,000
1.99%
Texas
31.7 million
33.3 million
0.99%
SOURCES: PERSHING YOAKLEY & ASSOCIATES, TEXAS DEMOGRAPHIC CENTER COMMUNITY IMPACT
stage is largely to provide infrastructure and to serve as a “double checker” as partnerships are explored. She said she plans to rst meet with the health care systems already serving Bastrop-area patients. “I’ve already had people come visit me,” she teased.
Bringing a hospital to Bastrop would require more than just a demonstrated need, o cials said, as funding must also be secured. The concept carries an estimated $150 million price tag—but o cials emphasized it would neither be paid for nor run by the city. Instead, Carrillo-Trevino said the city’s cost at this
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Why it matters
How we got here
What comes next
Access to health care continues to be one of the most pressing challenges for the rapidly growing and largely rural community. Norma Mercado, executive director of Bastrop County Cares, said she often hears about resi- dents delaying care because of barriers such as cost and transportation, especially with limited options in Bastrop. The nonpro t works with community part- ners to connect residents with resources and address needs related to health, education and economic stability. That Bastrop County has a shortage of medical providers is no question, said Donna Nichols, Bastrop County public health director, noting that “residents should be able to seek available and accessible health care solutions in the place they call home.”
While no timeline has been assigned to the next round of studies, leaders said the goal is to take a measured approach to get it right. “We’re being responsible. We’re being transparent,” Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris said. “We want to make sure we’re going about it the right way.”
January 2025 Council OKs hospital feasibility study
February 2025-April 2026 PYA researchers conduct analysis
April 28, 2026 Council reviews study, tasks city sta to take next steps
“In some cases, individuals rely on emergency departments for care that could have been addressed earlier through stronger local health care
May 2026 Land-use entitlements
infrastructure.” NORMA MERCADO, BASTROP COUNTY CARES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
and partnership discussions start
Mid-2026 Council to receive entitlements update
SOURCES: CITY OF BASTROP, PERSHING YOAKLEY & ASSOCIATES COMMUNITY IMPACT
BASTROP 739 State Hwy 71 (512) 308-0250 ELGIN 1100 US-290 (512) 285-2741 (512) 308-0250 (512) 285-2741 GIDDINGS
1920 E Austin St (979) 212-4031
Health care
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Maternal health grants aim to fill rural care gaps The St. David’s Foundation awarded $4.6 million across nine Healthy Births, Healthy Communities Rural grants in April, with four initiatives tied to Bastrop County families. Why it matters The funding is aimed at improving access to maternal health care that reflects families’ language, culture and needs in rural Central Texas. Foundation officials said these families may face limited birth services, transportation barriers and other gaps during pregnancy, postpartum care and early parenting. A closer look Efforts include services ranging from midwifery care to doula support, food assistance, grief ser- vices and more for local Black, Latino, Indigenous and immigrant families.
Chosen Women Empower Funding will support a partnership between Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry and Chosen Women Empower to connect pregnant mothers from underserved communities in Bastrop County with food assistance, SNAP enrollment support and referrals to longer-term family resources. www.chosenwomenempower.org
Birthing Belonging Funding will support Birthing Belonging, a HEAL Alliance initiative providing community-led maternal health help for rural Black, Latina and Indigenous mothers in Bastrop County, with a focus on healing-centered care, cultural belonging, creative expression and financial independence. www.healhistory.org
St. David’s Foundation rural perinatal grants
The foundation awarded $2.1 million across four Healthy Births, Healthy Communities Rural grants in April, tied to Bastrop County families.
Birthing Belonging
Ciclos de Vida Funding will support a partnership between Embody Transformation and ALAS Texas to expand the community-led maternal health program. Ciclos de Vida connects Latino immigrant families in Bastrop County with prenatal and postpartum support, resource navigation, peer support, grief and loss services, and burial and funeral assistance. www.alastexas.org
WOMB 360 Collaborative Funding will support the Women Overcoming Maternal Barriers 360 Collaborative, a partnership led by The Bastrop Birthing Center with Bastrop County Cares, Nurtured TX, Doc Who Listens and EverMother to connect Bastrop County families with midwifery care, perinatal mental health support, transportation, doula services and more. www.bastropcares.org
$600,000
Chosen Women Empower
$600,000
Ciclos de Vida
$400,000
WOMB 360 Collaborative
$500,000
SOURCES: ST. DAVID'S FOUNDATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT
YOUR NEW PLACE TO CALL HOME.
Learn More
813 Main St, Bastrop | storehousebastrop.com |
1006 Home Depot Way | Bastrop, TX | 512-270-7239
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Bastrop Family Connects o ers free home visits Bastrop County families with babies up to three months old can receive free at-home nurse visits and resources from Bastrop Family Connects—a partnership with Lone Star Circle of Care. How it works Celeste Wadlow, Bastrop Family Connects nursing supervisor, said families can be seen at home, by phone or at the clinic at 605 Old Austin Hwy., Bastrop. During the visit, a health assessment will be performed by a registered nurse. After that, families will be provided with resources based on any identi ed needs. Learn more Wadlow said eligibility requirements are simple: reside in Bastrop County and have a baby up to 12 weeks old.
Pathways debuts new name, more services Since 2009, Bastrop Pregnancy Resource Center has o ered free support to families. In February, the center changed its name to Pathways Women & Family Center to re ect
its expanded services. What you need to know
The center has no eligibility require- ments for its free services, which range from pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to application assistance for support services. Find out more at www.mypathwaystx.org.
Bastrop Family Connects nurse Ayla Landry examines Stephanie Gallardo Castillo and baby Melanie.
COURTESY LONE STAR CIRCLE OF CARE
“No other eligibility exists,” she said. Applications can be submitted online at https://bit.ly/Bastrop-Family-Connects.
TRIGG RD.
304
N
CommUnityCare expands pediatric, women’s care
“It’s really convenient because it’s close by, and I don’t have to drive all the way to Austin. Being able to bring my daughter here too means we can both get care in the same place, and I can schedule
screenings and same-day sick visits for newborns through teenagers. The expansion includes ve pediatric exam rooms, one additional women’s health exam room and on-site nancial eligibility services, according to a news release. Find out more More information can be found at www.communitycaretx.org/bastrop-health-center.
CommUnityCare Health Centers expanded its Bastrop Health Center in April to include pediatric primary care, bringing children’s services along- side women’s health care at 301 SH 71 W., Ste. 111
appointments quickly if something comes up.”
in Bastrop. The details
OLGA MONTANO, BASTROP MOTHER
The new pediatric services include well-child checkups, sports physicals, immunizations,
Daniel T. Coelho, MD ARC Bastrop
∙ Get updated vaccines ∙ See a full picture of your child’s health ∙ Ask learning and behavioral questions ∙ Complete camp and sports paperwork CHECK IN FOR A CHECKUP
ARCcheckup.com Book now
15
BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION
Health care
BY HANNAH NORTON
About 5.2 million Texans, or 16.7% of the state’s population, did not have health insurance in 2024, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Texas’ uninsured rate was higher than any other state in 2024. For years, advocates have called on Texas lawmakers to pass laws to drive down health care costs and improve access to health insurance, according to previous Community Impact reporting. Ahead of the 2027 state legislative session, lawmakers are working to understand: • Why health care costs are rising in Texas and across the nation • The factors that make health care unaffordable • What can be done to rein in prices Texas House and Senate committees held initial hearings on the drivers of high health care costs in April and May. Lawmakers study rising health care costs
Zooming in
Change in U.S. health care costs Since 2000, U.S. health care prices have grown faster than ination.
Medical care
All goods and services
125%
"A family of four who get their coverage from an employer are going to face [health insurance] premiums of about $27,000 a year. Every family is basically buying a new Toyota Corolla worth of health insurance." ZACK COOPER, DIRECTOR OF YALE UNIVERSITY’S HEALTH CARE AFFORDABILITY LAB
121.3%
100%
86.1%
75%
50%
25%
The median Texas household spends about one-third of its income on employer-sponsored health insurance.
0% 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 2024
SOURCES: PETERSON KFF HEALTH SYSTEM TRACKER, THE CENTER FOR HEALTH AND DEMOCRACY COMMUNITY IMPACT
More context
monopolies,” Cooper told lawmakers April 30. Sixty-one percent of Texans live in areas “dominated by just a few large hospital systems,” according to the public policy nonpro t Texas 2036. To improve health care a ordability, Texas 2036 recommends that lawmakers work to increase price transparency, strengthen competition among health care providers and incentivize employers to provide low-cost insurance.
The consolidation of hospitals and other health care companies may be part of what’s driving health care price increases, according to Zack Cooper, director of Yale University’s Health Care A ordability Lab. Since 2000, Cooper said there have been more than 1,300 mergers among the nation’s approximately 5,000 hospitals. “Even though we rely on competition to determine the prices that insurers want to pay hospitals, about 21% of hospitals are e ectively
“Many of us know that health care pricing is largely broken, but I think sometimes it’s di cult to know why.” REP. JAMES FRANK, R WICHITA FALLS
POPULAR SERVICES
BOOK NOW
Primary Care & Functional Medicine Covered By Most Major Insurance Providers!
Preventative Testing Comprehensive Physicals Nutritional IV Therapy Weight Loss Support
2219 Sawdust Rd #1501, Spring, TX (346) 646-5627 (737) 358-7046 815 State Hwy 71 #1130 Bastrop, TX 78602
Peptide Therapy Allergy Treatments And more!
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
PHI Cedar Creek adds rst-in-region care PHI Air Medical’s Cedar Creek base expanded its advanced emergency services in 2025, adding several respiratory, cardiac and trauma-care capabil- ities—some for the rst time in Central Texas. What’s happening The additional devices and skills target critically ill patients experiencing severe respiratory distress, pulmonary hypertension or organ failure. What they’re saying “The crew at this base provides a service that goes above and beyond in every facet of their role, and these accomplishments re ect a crew that has the tools to elevate emergency medical care,” Chris- topher Hardman, chief operating o cer at PHI Air Medical, said in a news release.
PHI Air Medical service area Bastrop County residents pay no out-of-pocket ight costs when picked up in these counties through an agreement with Bastrop County Emergency Services District No. 3.
35
77
Williamson
36
Lee
Travis
290
290
71
Bastrop
+ + N Caldwell Gonzales Fayette 77 10 35 71
• Facebook: PHI Air Medical Cedar Creek • 525-B Union Chapel Road, Cedar Creek
A PHI Air Medical crew member walks toward a helicopter on a rooftop helipad in the Austin area.
COURTESY PHI AIR MEDICAL
+ + + +
Your Family . Our Team . Good Health . Same trusted care, serving our community since 1985!
With five locations throughout the greater Austin area, we make healthcare accessible and strive to treat every patient like family. We are proud to serve the community with: Preventive Health Care Weight Loss Programs Same-Day Availability Online Scheduling Saturday Clinics & Virtual Visits
Care beyond the clinic.
Central Health, CommUnityCare Health Centers, and Sendero Health Plans are creating a more connected system of care for Travis County residents—connecting coverage, clinics, specialists, and support services to help care work better together. One system. Every kind of care. From coverage to clinics to specialists, Central Health keeps everything connected— so everything works together for you. www. centralhealth .net centralhealth .net SCAN TO LEARN MORE CentralHealth.net. CentralHealth.net
+
Schedule Your Next Appointment! PFPDocs.com
060126
17
BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Your Health. Your Family. Your Community FREE
Healthcare Leadership Panel Free Health Screenings First Aid & Safety Workshops Healthy Aging Resources AI & Mental Health Discussion Kids Costume Parade & Kids Activities ADMISSION
Bastrop Convention Center 1408 Chestnut Street Bastrop, TX 78602
SATURDAY AUG 8, 2026
VISIT OUR WEBSITE bastropcountyhealthfair. com
10AM - 2PM
An initiative of the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Events
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
McDade Watermelon Festival The two-day, family-friendly festival will offer a street dance to live music, food and craft vendors, a barbecue cook-off, a car show and watermelon- themed activities and contests for all ages. • July 10, 8 p.m.-midnight (street dance); July 11, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. (festival), 7:30 a.m. (5K), 10 a.m. (parade) • Free (festival entry); $10 (ages 5 and older, street dance); $40 (5K registration) • Downtown, 143 Bastrop St., McDade • www.mcdadetexas.com
Corvette Invasion Billed as the largest Corvette show in Texas, the event will feature cars on display, live music, refreshments and guest speakers. • July 17, 7-9 p.m. (meet-and-greet); July 18, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (car show) • Free (admission); $65.53 (car show registration) • Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, Bastrop Homecoming & Rodeo Community members can watch various events, including team roping, mutton bustin’, 4D jackpot barrel and rodeo slack. There will also be live music performances, along with a parade, vendors and more.
• July 28-Aug. 1, times vary • $10-$15 (admission) • Mayfest Park, 25 American Legion Drive, Bastrop • www.bastrophomecomingrodeo.org
• $15 (activity bands) • Community Gardens, 1067 SH 71, Bastrop • www.cgbastrop.com/publicevents
July
Springfest Co-hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Center and CASA of Bastrop, Fayette & Lee Counties, the family-friendly event, which was postponed in April, will feature a play zone, food trucks, games and music. Festivalgoers can also meet first responders, educators and other community leaders. • July 11, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • Fisherman’s Park, 1200 Willow St., Bastrop • www.springfest.org
Great Casino Sock Hop Benefiting the CASA of Bastrop, Fayette & Lee Counties, tickets to the event include dinner and drinks—with and without alcohol—and $10,000 worth of game chips. • July 18, 5:30-10:30 p.m. • $85 (individual tickets), $150 (two tickets) • Smithville Recreation Center, 106 Royston St., Smithville • www.casabfl.org
1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.corvetteinvasion.com
Kids Day at Community Gardens Geared toward kids having fun, the day will include a foam party, dunk tank, waterslides, snacks and more. • July 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
CALL ME IF YOU WANT YOUR PROPERTY ON MY LIST OF SOLD PROPERTIES!
THE CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER AND CASA, SERVING BASTROP, LEE AND FAYETTE COUNTIES INVITE YOU TO
SCAN TO SEE PROPERTIES SOLD
A FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVAL IN THE PARK, CELEBRATING NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2026 | 10 AM UNTIL 2:30 PM FISHERMAN’SPARK | DOWNTOWNBASTROP
SPRINGFEST IS GENEROUSLY SPONSORED BY
www.BastropFarmandHome.com • bastrophomes@gmail.com
19
BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION
Real estate
May housing gures for Bastrop-Cedar Creek show a longer wait for sellers, even as the median sales price fell, according to Unlock MLS data. Residential market data
Average days on market
Number of homes sold
+24.24%
-24.39%
+1.92%
+200%
May 2025 May 2026
78602
78612
78602
78612
95
78602
71
Median home sales price
21
May
2025
2026
21
304
78612
$375,000
$369,750
78602
N
-12.06%
Bastrop-Cedar Creek market data May 2025 2026
$447,500
$369,995
78612
-17.32%
60 77
Closed sales
163
140
New listings
Homes sold by price point in May 2026
Homes under contract Total dollar volume Price per square foot
81
83
78602
78612
Total
$24.8M $45.4M
1
-
1
$900,000+
$202 $195
2
3
5
$700,000-$899,999
6
4
10
$500,000-$699,999
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 512 454 7636 WWW.ABOR.COM
32
14
46
$300,000-$499,999
NEW BUILDERS! NEW MODELS!
LESS COOL. MORE CHILL.
Nestled in the Lost Pines by Bastrop, The Colony offers quick access to the capital with the serenity and charm of small-town living. Come take a tour today.
THE AUSTIN ALTERNATIVE
COLONYTX.COM FROM THE MID $300s TO $1M+ 10 BUILDERS
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
21
BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION
THE SWEET TASTE OF SUMMER, MADE TO SHARE
BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE BUNDTLET EXPIRATION 7/31/2026
Manor 11910 US 290, Ste. 112 | (512) 500-0840
BETTER CARE FOR YOUR CLOTHES. KINDER TO OUR PLANET.
DRY CLEANERS
ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING. EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS.
Our Services
PROUDLY SERVING BASTROP, TEXAS
Dry Cleaning
Wash & Fold
Alterations & Repairs
SCAN FOR FREE PICK UP & DELIVERY
Dresses & Specialty Items
Leather & Suede Cleaning
Stain Removal
512-321-4565 | EcoPressCleaners.com | 494 Agnes St. Bastrop, TX 78602
@EcoPressCleaners
YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH THAT SCAR FOREVER
Advanced scar revision and scar camouflage available right here in Bastrop.
COMPLIMENTARY SCAR CONSULTATION Limited appointments available. SUMMER SPECIAL At Sacred Face Salon, we offer advanced scar revision and scar camouflage services designed to help restore confidence and improve skin appearance. Whether your scar is from surgery, injury, burns, or another life event, treatment options may help improve its appearance.
NICOLE JOHNSON
1002 Chestnut St., Bastrop | (512) 898-9990 hello@sacredfacesalon.com • www.sacredfacesalon.com BASTROP COUNTY’S TRUSTED ADVANCED AESTHETICS STUDIO
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
YOUR SOLUTION IS HERE. daily marketing NEWSLETTER BANNERS
Scan, call 512.989.1000 or email ads@communityimpact.com.
23
BASTROP - CEDAR CREEK EDITION
120 years of Roscoe State Bank means 120 years of community, and we're celebrating by giving back all year long. Each month, we're awarding $1,200 to a deserving nonprofit right here in Bastrop County. Some winners have already been randomly selected, but the giving is just getting started. Keep nominating, keep following along, and help us recognize the organizations making a difference in our own backyard. Our anniversary wish? Supporting local charities, but we need your help!
Scan here to nominate a local nonprofit and learn more about our monthly winners.
Follow us on socials to see the winners all year long!
@MyRoscoeBank
@RoscoeBankTX
Roscoe Bank, a Division of Cornerstone Capital Bank, SSB. Member FDIC. NMLS ID #2258. No purchase or account required to submit a nomination. Visit www.rsb.bank/120th-anniversary-giveback for nonprofit eligibility, how to enter, and full details.
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 24Powered by FlippingBook