North Central Austin Edition | February 2026

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North Central Austin Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 11 MARCH 6APRIL 3, 2026

2026 Camp Guide

'All Together Now': SXSW reimagines festival for 40th season

Actors Chloe Fineman, Sam Morelos and Matt Cornett attended the premiere of “Summer of 69.”

Nigerian singer and rapper Rema performed at the Rolling Stone Future of Music showcase on March 14, 2025.

The opening session in 2025 featured a conversation between authors Kasley Killam (pictured) and Amy Gallo.

PHOTOS COURTESY SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE & FESTIVALS

the runtime of the festival and relocating, as the Austin Convention Center closed for redevelopment until 2029. For its 40th iteration, the festival's theme is "All Together Now." One of the aspects this theme represents is the fact that Music, Film & TV, and Innovation will take place during the same sev- en-day period for the rst time. From March 12-18, Austin will still host thousands of musicians, lmmakers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and art lovers amid the changes.

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Also in this issue

As Austin celebrates the 40th year of South by Southwest Conference & Festivals, the event that began with just 150 anticipated attendees in March of 1987 has grown into one of the festival industry’s most inuential events. The festival has undergone many changes over the years, with 1994 marking the rst year lm and media were added to the festival and 2025 marking the rst SXSW London, according to the SXSW website. Last year, SXSW made headlines for decreasing

Transportation Check out how to navigate during SXSW (Page 9)

Education Learn why Austin ISD was released from a state oversight order (Page 14) Business Prototype Vintage celebrates anniversary with new North Loop location (Page 21)

CONTINUED ON 10

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

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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 75+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio metros.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Katlynn Fox Dacia Garcia Manuel Holguin Jr. Haley McLeod Michael Milliorn Hannah Norton Daniel Schwalm Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Joel Valley Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss Abigail Jones Sabrina Musachia

Krista Box General Manager kbox@ communityimpact.com

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

Elle Bent Editor ebent@ communityimpact.com

Gail Watson Account Executive gwatson@ communityimpact.com

16225 Impact Way, Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases ncanews@communityimpact.com Advertising ncaads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

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Impacts

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5 Roya A new Persian restaurant from Amir Hajimaleki— chef and owner of District Kitchen and Cocktails, Oasthouse Kitchen and Bar, Keepers Coastal Kitchen, and Daisy Lounge—is now offering dishes that Hajimaleki has been serving at exclusive pop- up dinners across Austin since 2018. • Opened Feb. 11 • 7858 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin • www.royaaustin.com

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a neighborhood sushi bar off Rainey Street, the first-ever dedicated sushi restaurant on the street. • Opening in March • 51 Rainey St., Ste. 140A, Austin • Instagram: kinshoaustin 6 Laura Rathe Fine Art Gallery The contemporary art gallery will open in downtown Austin. The gallery is owned by Laura Rathe. • Opening March 28

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3 Fawne Acupuncture and Aesthetics The acupuncture practice from Lindsay Drerup offers overall wellness treatments. • Opened August 2025 • 4107 Medical Parkway, Ste. 202, Austin • www.fawneaustin.com

1 Sauna House The Nordic spa provides contrast therapy. • Opened Nov. 7 • 1507 W. N. Loop Blvd,, Austin • www.saunahouse.com

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• 907 W. Fifth St., Austin • www.laurarathe.com

Coming soon

71 2 Merit Coffee Merit Coffee opened its fourth Austin coffee shop. • Opened Feb. 14

7 HIT Athletic Wellness Center HIT Athletic will open a wellness center at the gym

4 Kinsho Nick Ford and Wade McElroy of Rocco’s Italian will open

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Coming soon

What's next

8 Jo’s Coffee The local coffee shop will open its newest location in the Procure Tower in downtown Austin. Jo’s was founded in 1999 and offers its own blend of La Colombe Coffee. • Opening in March • 221 W. Sixth St., Austin • www.joscoffee.com

10 Tiny Grocer The local specialty grocery store from Steph Steele will open its third location in East Austin, replacing what was once Longhorn Meat Market. To honor the previous business, this new location will focus on meats, offer barbecue and bake bread in-house. • Opening in 2026 • 2411 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Austin • www.tinygrocer.com

13 Allday Pizza Allday Pizza is planning to open a third location in Northwest Austin, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The pizza shop sells classic slices like cheese and pepperoni and features house specials like the Sweet Sausage, made with ricotta cheese and drizzled with Calabrian honey. Wine, beer and cocktails are also available. • 3720 RR 2222, Austin • www.allday.pizza

offering cryotherapy, red light therapy and body composition scanners. • Opening by June • 7797 Burnet Road, Austin • www.hitathletic.com

affiliated physicians. • 1801 E. 51st St., Bldg. H, Austin • www.stdavids.com

In the news

11 Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Austin The hotel will begin undergoing a renovation in February of its reception, guest waiting and breakfast areas as well as its pool. Renovations are expected to be complete by April.

14 Spa Luxe The spa came under the ownership of new owners Tori and Brittany Clark. With locations in Austin and Georgetown, the spa provides massages, facials, waxing, and lash and nail services. Available med spa treatments include skin rejuvenation, fillers and

Relocations

• 959 Reinli St., Austin • www.marriott.com

9 Tillery Street Plant Company The local nursery recently relocated from its original space at 801 Tillery St., Austin. The business was founded in 2011 and offers a selection of native and adaptive plants to the Central Texas region. • Relocated Feb. 21 • 914 Shady Lane, Austin • www.tillerystreetplants.com

injectables as well as laser therapy. • 2713 Perseverance Drive, Austin • www.spaluxe.com

12 St. David’s Emergency Center St. David’s HealthCare acquired ownership of six Austin Emergency Center locations Feb. 1, including a center at Mueller. The new centers are staffed with nurses trained in emergency care and board-certified, St. David’s-

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Government

BY BEN THOMPSON

Austin surveillance guidelines passed Austin leaders adopted new policies for the city’s use of surveillance technologies in response to concerns about such systems, including a proposed parks security contract that was once again put on hold. The setup A $2 million contract for security trailers to be placed around parkland was up for City Council authorization both last summer and on Feb. 5, but was withdrawn from consider- ation both times after pushback. In response to public concerns—and previ- ous debates over privacy and data collection related to police license plate readers— council also passed a new civic surveillance technology use policy from Mayor Pro Tem Chito Vela Feb. 5.

Austin’s social service ‘reset’ continues Funding for Austin’s social service programs is in line for further cuts, and the city is now evaluating how to both reduce portions of its tens of millions of dollars in annual spending. The setup Increased investments in social services like homelessness response, public health program- ming, violence interruption and resident assis- tance were proposed last year in the city’s fiscal year 2025-26 budget. Most added funding was stripped away in a budget rewrite after voters rejected a tax increase under Proposition Q. Further cuts are now on the horizon as Austin works toward what several officials have called a social services “reset.” The approach Dozens of social service contracts totaling

Social service funding More than $74 million is currently budgeted for social service programs in fiscal year 2025-26. Violence prevention: $2.4M Workforce development: $2.7M

Health equity, HIV services, community planning: $4.4M Basic needs: $5.8M Children and youth support: $9.2M Crisis response and behavioral health: $14.8M Homelessness: $34.9M

NOTE: TOTALS ARE ROUNDED SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTIN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

tens of millions of dollars are being reviewed to streamline or remove some programming with limited disruption. The multipart assessment already invento- ried nearly 170 past contracts worth more than $200 million. In FY 2025-26 alone, more than $74 million is reserved for social services. Staff will share possible next steps in the spring ahead of final budget adoption in the summer.

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Transportation

BY SIENNA WIGHT

South by Southwest leads to road closures downtown in March

March 9-20

1 Congress Avenue from West Seventh Street to West Tenth Street

2 Ninth Street from Colorado Street to Brazos Street

800 CONGRESS: FILM & TV CLUBHOUSE

DOWNRIGHT: MUSIC CLUBHOUSE

3 West Fourth Street from Colorado to Congress 4 East Fourth from Brazos to San Jacinto Boulevard March 9-22

BRAZOS HALL: INNOVATION CLUBHOUSE

5 Red River Street from East Fifth to East Tenth

6 East Tenth from Red River to South I-35 frontage road 7 East Ninth Street from Red River to South I-35 frontage road

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10 Attayac Street from East Sixth to Seventh 11 Onion Street from East Sixth to East Seventh 9 Medina Street from East Sixth Street to East Seventh

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SOURCE: AUSTIN TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

‘All Together Now‘: SXSW reimagines festival for 40th season From the cover

SXSW Clubhouses

The Austin Convention Center will be undergoing construction, so organizers of the South by Southwest Conferences and Festivals selected three central clubhouses in downtown Austin to host different parts of the event.

At a glance

The Austin Convention Center has served as the central hub for SXSW since 1993. Due to construction at the convention center, this year’s festival will operate around three central hubs, or clubhouses, for Film & TV, Music and Innovation. Most events will be held near their respective clubhouses for easier navigation. Chief Commercial Officer at SXSW Peter Lewis said they expect foot traffic in the area to increase visibility for local businesses and immerse festivalgoers in the heart of Austin. “We want to make it very walkable, very approachable, very friendly,” Lewis said. “[We want] to make sure that we’re building a sense of community and trying to create, truly, a village.” The convention center is undergoing redevelopment to increase capacity and revitalize the southeast area of downtown. The expansion is expected to increase the center’s annual economic impact to $750 million. The convention center is on track to reopen in the spring of 2029, according to a city official.

1 Downright • Music clubhouse • 701 E. 11th St., Austin

TEXAS CAPITOL

2 800 Congress • Film & TV clubhouse • 800 Congress Ave., Austin

3 Brazos Hall • Innovation clubhouse • 204 E. Fourth St., Austin

LADY BIRD LAKE

SOURCE: SXSW/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What’s new

Visitor’s Bureau, in charge of marketing Austin as a premier international destination, according to the bureau’s website. Tiffany Kerr, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, said she is encouraged by the clubhouse setup. “What I love about SXSW is how the city becomes a canvas and how a visitor can really see the true character of all of our different diverse neighborhoods,” Kerr said.

no matter when you’re here in Austin,” Lewis said. While the festival timeline is condensed, Lewis said they anticipate a similar number of sessions, foot traffic and economic impact as in previous years. “[It’s] going to add a lot of vibrancy and activ- ity,” he said. “So we’re expecting a very active environment for SXSW for 2026.” Visit Austin is the city’s Convention and

For the first time, all three segments of the festival will take place during the same seven-day period. This year’s theme, “All Together Now,” not only reflects the timeline but also captures the essence of what organizers want to cultivate: bringing people together, according to Lewis. “We wanted to create the opportunity for all registrants to have the best South-by ever, in the sense that you can truly experience everything …

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2024 SXSW economic impact

By the numbers

A sneak peek

The economic impact report shows South by Southwest’s greater impact on Austin.

SXSW will host hundreds of performances, premieres and panels March 12-18. The All-American Rejects will kick off the music festival at the

In 2024, the festival generated over a $370 mil- lion impact on the city’s economy. SXSW officials break this down into three components: atten- dance impact, operational impact and partner impact in an economic impact report. SXSW works with local hotels to offer lower rates to those who book their stay directly through their website. In 2024, these bookings resulted in $2.3 million in hotel occupancy tax revenue. HOT revenue helps to promote tourism and the hotel and convention industry in Austin, according to city documents. When comparing the period of March 6-15 of 2024 and 2025, visitor spending was up 1.3%, and restaurant spending was up 14%, according to Kerr. “It’s really encouraging,” she said. “It shows the steadiness of SXSW and makes me look forward to 2026.”

Attendance impact: represents the contributions that

Total impact: $377.3M

attendees, performers and business leaders make to local businesses during

SXSW Music Opening Party. Check out some of the other upcoming events. For a full list of events, visit www.sxsw.com.

their time in Austin Operational impact:

organizers spend money year-round on things such as equipment rental and employee salaries, making up the operational impact Partner impact: represents the events, marketing and brand presence of SXSW partners

Showcasing artists

$217.8M

• Aaron Page • Adrian Activo • Aitchdub • Alma Muñeca • Charley Crockett • Elijah Delgado • Era Wadi

• FAMA • Grocery Bag • La Texana • Lainey Wilson • Lola Young • Passion Pit • The Sophs • 2Charm

$98.5M

NOTE: SXSW HAS NOT RELEASED THE ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT FOR 2025 AS OF PRESS TIME. SOURCE: SXSW/COMMUNITY IMPACT

$61M

• I Love Boosters • Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice • Over Your Dead Body • Pretty Lethal • Ready or Not 2: Here I Come • They Will Kill You Film headliners

40 years of history

“Being able to perform for a global audience right here in my hometown, that’s such a great opportunity,” SAULPAUL, LOCAL MUSICIAN

SXSW was started in 1986 by Roland Swenson, Louis Jay Meyers, Louis Black and Nick Barbaro, with the first festival taking place in the spring of 1987. Just a few years before Austin was named the Live Music Capital of the World, 177 artists, 700 attendees and organizers joined together to witness what would be the first of many iterations. 1994 marked the first year film and media were added to the festival, and 2025 marked the first SXSW London, according to the SXSW website. Since the first festival in 1987, SXSW has

Keynotes

• A Conversation with Jennifer B. Wallace • Tom Sachs: Show the Work, Tell the Story • Rana el Kaliouby and Bob Safian on Why the Future of AI Must be Human Centric • Aza Raskin on Nature Speaks. Can AI Help Us Listen?

consistently highlighted local artists, including Austin-based singer, songwriter and rapper Saul- Paul. He has played SXSW as a showcasing artist several times over the past decade, most recently in 2024.

SOURCE: SXSW/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Events

BY DACIA GARCIA

March

IT’S YOUR TIME Find Your Future With ACC • March 12-18 • $745-$1,865 • Venues vary based on speciic festival event • www.sxsw.com Dino Days at Zilker Botanical Garden These family-friendly events invite visitors to discover ancient ora, fossils and participate in interactive demonstrations led by local paleontologists. • March 14-22, times vary • Included in garden admission (Free-$8, varies by age and residency) • 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin • www.zilkergarden.org It’s My Park Day Austin Parks Foundation will host its biannual event where volunteers can do work such as tree mulching, planting, invasive plant removal and more. • March 7 • Free • Locations vary • www.austinparks.org Texas Wildlife Day Attendees will participate in hands-on activities led by local nature groups and the museum’s education team. • March 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free, with purchase of $10 museum admission • 2400 Trinity St., Austin • www.sciencemuseum.utexas.edu SXSW EDU: Wikicurious Community members can learn how to edit Wikipedia and Wikimedia platforms. • March 9, 1-5 p.m. • Free, registration encouraged • Central Library, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin • https://library.austintexas.gov South by Southwest Conference and Festivals The Austin staple is returning in March with a variety of music performances and lm and TV showcases.

'Ada Twist, Scientist & Friends' The Paramount Theatre will present the musical which features Rosie Revere, Iggy Peck and Ada Twist. The show highlights a STEM curriculum and is best for children ages ve and up. • March 29, 1 p.m. (doors open) and 4:30 p.m. (doors open) • $20-$37 • The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin • www.austintheatre.org Sensory Morning: Trains at the Bullock Families can explore all three oors of galleries in a low- sensory experience. Attendees can also take a look at a life-size Texas model train. • March 14, 9-11 a.m. Rodeo Austin Community members can plan to attend the event’s ProRodeo or live music performances featuring bull riding, barrel racing, mutton bustin’, team roping and more. Performers include Eli Young Band, Midland and William Clark Green.

• March 13-28 • $30 and up • 9100 Decker Lake Road, Austin • www.rodeoaustin.com $30 and up

• $10 per household, free for museum members • Bullock Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., Austin • www.thestoryoftexas.com

April

The Bloody Mary Fest The annual festival will showcase curated blood marys from participating businesses including Snooze, Laurel, Eureka, Cisco’s and more. • April 4, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (times vary by session) • $47-$81.32 • Fair Market, 1100 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.thebloodymaryfest.com

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State

BY HANNAH NORTON

Texas families can apply to receive state funds for private education or homeschooling from Feb. 4-March 17 under the state’s new education savings account program, known as Texas Education Freedom Accounts. Ahead of the 2026-27 school year, most families accepted into the $1 billion program will receive $10,474 per student to spend on private education and related expenses. Students with disabilities will be eligible for up to $30,000 annually, while homeschooled students will receive up to $2,000 per year. Over 1,000 private schools and pre-K providers, many of which are located in and around Texas’ largest cities, will participate in the program, according to the state comptroller’s office. ESA applications open in February.

Approved Texas private schools As of Jan. 14, 1,014 private schools had been approved to accept education savings accounts. Texas has over 1,300 accredited private schools.

What to expect

If demand for the education savings account program exceeds the $1 billion available, the comptroller’s office will use a lottery system to determine acceptance, with priority for students with disabilities and low-income families. To be eligible for the program, a student must: • Reside in Texas • Be a U.S. citizen or lawful resident • Be eligible to attend a Texas public school, open-enrollment charter school or pre-K program Students must be enrolled in a pre-K program or private school to receive the $10,474 in private education funding, according to the program website. This means that some families may need to apply to private schools before they are accepted into the ESA program.

1 Houston area: 297 2 Dallas-Fort Worth area: 262 3 San Antonio area: 134

7 Rio Grande Valley: 46 8 Central Texas: 30

9 West Texas: 27 10 El Paso area: 12 11 North Texas: 11 12 Panhandle: 9

4 Austin area: 89 5 East Texas: 49 6 South Texas: 48

Community Impact coverage areas

THE COMPTROLLER’S OFFICE PERIODICALLY UPDATES ITS DATABASE AS ADDITIONAL SCHOOLS ARE ACCEPTED INTO THE PROGRAM.

SOURCES: TEXAS COMPTROLLER’S OFFICE AND TEXAS PRIVATE SCHOOL ACCREDITATION COMMISSION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Education

BY ELLE BENT & CHLOE YOUNG

Austin ISD released from state oversight order Austin ISD has completed all requirements under an agreement with the Texas Education Agency after three years of work on improving special education services, meaning the district has been released from state oversight. What happened In September 2023, AISD ocials accepted a pro- posal from the TEA for a state-appointed monitor. This followed the TEA notifying AISD in March 2023 that it would seek to implement a conservatorship due to the ndings of an investigation of the district’s special education evaluations. District ocials highlighted the following accomplishments over the past three years on Feb. 17: • Completed over 10,000 evaluations and meetings • Grown the special education team by more

AISD prepares for potential rezoning

Brooke Elementary School site sold At a Jan. 29 meeting, the AISD board approved selling of the former Brooke Elementary site, which closed in 2020, to Trammell Crow Company and High Street. The details The development is slated to serve as a multifamily apartment complex with market-rate and aordable units above ground-oor retail, an AISD spokesperson told Community Impact.

TEA approves 22 of 24 turnaround plans The Texas Education Agency has approved turnaround plans for 22 out of 24 low-performing Austin ISD campuses. The update The agency has requested additional details for the two remaining campuses— Widén Elementary and Winn Montessori. AISD anticipates receiving approval for these campuses. Next steps Next school year, the district plans to close seven of these campuses, restart ve campuses and implement school improve- ment plans at the remaining 12 schools. The district is aiming to have less than 15 F-rated campuses in 2026 and eliminate all F ratings by 2029.

Enrollment in Austin ISD Austin ISD has been working to eliminate thousands of vacant seats as its enrollment declines.

100K

-13%

The AISD board could vote to close more schools and rezone thousands of students this fall. What happened In early November, the district walked back on an initial proposal to close Palm, Bryker Woods and Maplewood elementaries. AISD changed course after community members shared concerns about some district leaders in charge of applying community feedback to the school consolidation plan. In late January, Superintendent Matias Segura said the district had concluded an internal inves- tigation, which determined “that the integrity of the process was maintained throughout the entire process.” Current situation The district now plans to resume work and

80K

60K

Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura holds up a letter from the Texas Education Agency on Feb. 17.

40K

ELLE BENTCOMMUNITY IMPACT

20K

than 250 specialized providers and evaluators, and provided 120,000 hours of professional learning • Launched a new digital management platform to organize reporting of each child’s service • Hosted over 100 family engagement sessions Current situation District ocials said during the news con- ference that “sustainability” and “maintaining momentum” is the goal as they move ahead.

SOURCE: AUSTIN ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Brooke Elementary School site

community engagement around potential bound- ary changes this spring before deciding in October whether to rezone or close additional campuses in the 2027-28 school year, according to AISD information.

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Community

Camp Guide

2026

All Saints’ Episcopal Day School Type: education Ages: 3-6 Dates: May 26-July 17; two-week-long sessions Costs: $700-$770 per session

Badgerdog Creative Writing Camp Type: arts Ages: 7-18 Dates: June 1-July 29; two and three week sessions Cost: $250-$595 per session • Multiple locations across Austin & Round Rock • https://austinlibrary.org/badgerdog

Dates: June 1-July 24; weekly sessions Cost: $275 per half day, $495 per full day • First Baptist Church, 901 Trinity St., Austin • www.austinfilmfestival.com/SFC

Austin Parks and Recreation summer camps Type: arts, day, sports Ages: 5-15 Dates: June 8-Aug. 12 Costs: Varied • Various locations citywide • www.austintexas.gov/department/summer-camps-0

• 209 W. 27th St., Austin • www.allsaintseds.org

ATX Kids Club Type: day Ages: 4-13 Dates: May 26-Aug. 14 Cost: $500 per session; financial aid available • Various pickup/drop-off locations: 5201 Berkman Drive, Austin; 1100 Kingsbury St., Austin; 6710 Arroyo Seco, Austin; 6001 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.atxkidsclub.org Austin Film Festival’s Summer Film Camp & Teen Workshops Type: arts (film) Ages: 9-18

Camp Latinitas Type: education Ages: 9-14 Dates: June 8-July 17; weekly sessions

Cost: not provided • Southeast Austin • www.latinitasonline.org

Austin Playhouse Theatre Camps Type: arts Ages: 6-12 Dates: June 8-July 24 Costs: $305-$315 per week • 405 W. 22nd St., Austin • www.austinplayhouse.com/camps

CONTINUED ON 18

Sports & games Exciting STEAM activities Arts & crafts, music, dance, and drama

Field trips & special events Kindergarten Enrichment

School-Age Camp & Preschool Program 7944 Great Northern Blvd • Austin, TX ParagonPrep.com

program

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

The Art Garage Type: arts Ages: 6-14 Dates: May 27-Aug. 15 Cost: $95 per day; $409 per week

• 5501 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin; 11190 Circle Drive, Ste. 202, Austin; 8204 Brodie Lane, Ste. 103, Austin • www.theartgarageaustin.com

Austin Youth Fitness Type: sports Ages: 4-11 years old, option for middle schoolers to join as junior coaches Dates: June 1-Aug. 14 (sessions are separated into 10 five day sessions)

Cost: $325-$650 per week; an additional charge of $12 will be added to your camp registration fee for camp T-shirts (billed separately) • Pease Park, 1100 Kingsbury St., Austin • www.austinyouthfitness.com/summercamps

Locally Owned and Operated! Schedule now for summer clinics

Minds that think • Hearts that love Hands that help Now enrolling for 2026-2027 school year and summer program Ages 2 - Transitional Kindergarten Located in Central Austin 209 W. 27th St

easy to schedule Trial Lesson

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Make-Up Lessons

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Candace K.

We moved to this school after needing more out of the lessons we were previously receiving. We have been beyond happy and loving the progress our little one is making.

IG: @bigblueswim_austin FB: @bigblueaustin Ph: 512-910-2199

6406 N Interstate 35, Austin, TX 78752

Designed for kids ages 4*-12 (*select camps are for 4-6 year olds) Hands-on science discovery

Wide range of STEM concepts Entertaining educational

Spring Break & Summer Camps located all over town including Central Austin and North Austin!

WORKSHOPS AFTER-SCHOOL

CAMPS

SPECIAL EVENTS

PARTIES Call Today 512-892-1143 Austin.MadScience.org

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Community

Jump! Gymnastics Type: sports Ages: 3-10 (must be potty-trained) Dates: June 1-Aug. 14 Costs: $355-$545 per session • 2117 W. Anderson Lane, Austin; 10910 Domain Drive, Austin • www.jumpgymnastics.com/campjump

Dates: vary by location: Central Austin, June 1-July 31; South Austin, June 1-July 17 Cost: $425-$455 weekly, $95 extra per week for extended hours until 5:30 p.m. • Central Austin: 300 E. Huntland Drive, Austin; South Austin: 6215 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.neurongarage.com School of Design and Creative Technologies at UT Type: video game development, product design, animation, printmaking, immersive media, art, technology Grades: eighth through 12th Dates: varies by camp Cost: $700-$800, varies by camp • Address varies by camp, locations on UT Austin campus • www.designcreativetech.utexas.edu

CONTINUED FROM 17

Club SciKidz Type: education Ages: 4-15 Dates: June-July Cost: $425 per week • 4700 Grover Ave., Austin; 11819 S. I-35 Frontage Road South, Austin • http://austin.clubscikidz.com

Mad Science Camps Type: academic Ages: 5-12 Dates: May 26-Aug. 14 Cost: $240-$390 per session • 1314 Exposition Blvd, Austin • www.austin.madscience.org

Crux Climbing Center Spring and Summer Camps Type: enrichment, sports

Ages: 6-9 years old; 9-12 years old; varies by session Dates: Spring, March 16-20; Summer: June 2-Aug. 1; weekly sessions; varies by age group Cost: $325-$425 per week • 6015 Dillard Circle, Unit B, Austin • www.cruxclimbingcenter.com/central-austin/crux- crushers-camp

Mariposas Spanish Immersion Summer Camp Type: language, Spanish camp Ages: 3-8 (9-plus can apply as assistants)

Sportball Type: sports Ages: 3-9

Dates: May 26-29, June 1-5 Cost: $345-$375 per week • 300 Huntland Drive, Austin • www.mariposasspanish.com Neuron Garage Type: academics, day, STEAM Ages: 5-12

Dates: May 26-Aug. 14; varies by session Cost: $240-$300 per week, varies by camp • Address varies by camp • www.sportball.com

Idea Lab Kids Type: STEM Ages: 5-13 Dates: all summer Costs: $445 per week • 8620 Burnet Road, Austin • https://idealabkids.com/location/austin

Summer Wonders Type: education, arts Grades: 1st-5th

3-day hybrid Microschool for grades 3-12

Our approach is grounded in six core elements:

• Holistic, Learner-Centered Approach • Safe and Supportive Diverse Community • Intentional, In-depth Learning • Meaningful, Real-world Connections

Near ACC Highland Schedule your tour today! info@studioprep.org

• Leadership Through Service • Essential Parent Involvement

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See the six week trip schedule on CGIAustin.org

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Dates: June 8-July 24 Cost: $430 per week

• 5206 Balcones Drive, Austin • www.summerwonders.com

Thinkery Camps Type: education, STEAM Grades: rising grades K-1 through rising grades 2-3 Dates: June 1- Aug. 14 Cost: $385 (weekly member price), $425 (weekly standard price) • Thinkery Meredith Learning Lab, 1830 Simond Ave., Austin • www.thinkeryaustin.org/camp Waterloo Swim School Type: half-day, sports Ages: 5-11 (Swim Safety Camp), 9-14 (Water Polo Camp, Sharks and Mermaids Camp) Dates: June 1-July 31 Costs: $220 per week • 3200 W. Anderson Lane, Austin • www.waterlooswimming.com/swim-school-programs/ summer-camp

Girlstart Summer Camp Type: day camp, academic/STEM Grades: 4th-8th Dates: June 1-July 31, weekly sessions Cost: $450 per session

• 1400 W. Anderson Lane, Austin • www.girlstart.org

This list is not comprehensive.

Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 school year!

Scan Here

To Enroll

512-522-4190 | fce@austinschieve.org | www.austinachieve.org Serving grades Pre-K 3 through 12th grade

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

START A CONVERSATION WITH US TODAY 512.601.8692 | GRANDLIVING.COM LUMINATIONS ® Memory Care

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ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY # 312581

Jesus is the answer

This is for you. Whether church has always been part of your story or you’re just beginning to explore faith, you’re invitedto encounter hope, peace and life with Jesus this Easter.

CENTRAL AUSTIN Sunday April 5 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am

LAKE TRAVIS Sunday April 5 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am

GEORGETOWN Friday April 3 7pm Saturday April 4 3pm, 5pm Sunday April 5 8am, 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm

LEANDER/LIBERTY HILL Sunday April 5 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am

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Business

BY DACIA GARCIA

Best friends Audrie San Miguel and Emily Larson started the business in 2005.

COURTESY PROTOTYPE VINTAGEPHOTO BY DANIEL CAVAZOS

All items in both locations are curated by San Miguel and Larson with help from long-term vendors.

DACIA GARCIACOMMUNITY IMPACT

Austin’s Prototype Vintage launches second location

Shoppers can nd a variety of apparel from dresses and shoes to sunglasses and jackets.

Austin’s North Loop neighborhood has gained another locally owned vintage spot with the recent opening of Prototype Vintage’s second location. The shop is spreading its roots from its rst loca- tion on the tourist hub of South Congress Avenue to a classic neighborhood shaped by generations of Austinites. How it came to be The business is owned by longtime best friends Audrie San Miguel and Emily Larson. The duo launched their rst location on South Congress in 2005 after previously meeting at a North Loop block party. With their hands full curating inventory for the 1,700 square foot oor, the two didn’t imag- ine opening up a second store until the perfect opportunity arose. “The North Loop neighborhood has a very independent spirit that is unique to this historic neighborhood. In August I bought [Room Service Vintage] from the former owner and my mentor,” San Miguel said. “So being next door to Room Service is a dream come true and across from all of these other legendary Austin businesses all around us. It was really just a huge honor and a dream come true that all the pieces fell into place.” Respecting the craft The South location rst started out with a large furniture inventory, however, they said the space

quickly turned into a destination where travelers stopped by to admire the furniture and take photos, but not take anything home. “I always say we were like a beautiful museum that everyone loved, but no one was paying an admission ticket,” Larson said. “Because you can’t take a credenza on the plane, but you can take a dress.” Both owners hand select each product displayed in the stores from handbags and jackets to dresses and children’s clothing. “There is a certain amount of fun in digging, but oftentimes when you’re visiting a boutique, it’s just so nice to look at every piece and see the beauty in every single thing that you touch,” San Miguel said. “That’s where our motto ‘All killer no ller,’ comes from.” The impact Both owners expressed their interest for vintage clothing being rooted in their gravitation toward clothing from the 60s to the 90s and how it paired with the music culture at the time. The duo said they’re motivated to oer one-of-a-kind pieces for customers to fall in love with while giving the clothing new life. “Over the years I’ve just become more and more passionate about responsible retail and sustain- able fashion,” San Miguel said. “We’re really proud to be a part of the sustainable fashion community.”

DACIA GARCIACOMMUNITY IMPACT

The business started out featuring vintage furniture before transitioning to a clothing-only establishment.

COURTESY PROTOTYPE VINTAGEPHOTO BY DANIEL CAVAZOS

S. CONGRESS AVE.

AVENUE F

E. 52ND ST.

1 South Congress: 1700 S. Congress Ave., Austin; 2 North Loop: 123 E. North Loop Blvd., Austin www.prototype-vintage.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

SAUNA HOUSE AUSTIN NORTH LOOP

Shoal Creek Nursery has all your springtime planting and landscape needs from colorful annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees to elegant pottery, soil amendments, gardening tools, bulbs and seeds Joy of Spring

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

More homes in Central Austin sold in January 2026 compared to January 2025, according to Unlock MLS data. Residential market data

Homes sold

January 2025

January 2026

-50.00%

+27.27%

+25%

+30.77%

+0.5

+66.67%

78701

78702

78703

78704

78705

78722

78705 78751 78752 78756

+20.00%

+16.67%

+40%

-50.00%

+120%

+60%

78757

78731

290

360

78723

78703

78701

78722

78702

78704

78723

78731

78751

78752

78756

78757

290

183

MOPAC

Median home sales price

January

2025

2026

Central Austin

$670,000 $615,000 $1,333,555 $770,000 $363,250 $550,000 $704,275 $1,160,000 $613,880 $418,000 $995,000 $722,500

$893,500 $557,000 $1,500,000 $790,000 $245,000 $499,900 $607,500 $924,500 $880,000 $262,500 $975,000 $672,500

78701 78702 78703 78704 78705 78722 78723 78731 78751 78752 78756 78757

January

2025

2026

468 392

New listings

133 141

Closed sales

Homes under contract

189 193

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 5124547636 WWW.ABOR.COM

Promote your business

Coming Soon! Community Impact’s Home Guide

Scan, call 512.989.1000 or email ads@communityimpact.com

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

SHARE THE LOVE WITH SOMEONE SWEET

P L A

Buy One Bundtlet, Get One Free EXPIRATION 4/30/2026

NEXT CLASS APRIL 26TH - JUNE 20TH SUNDAYS & WEDNESDAYS REGISTER NOW AT WWW.CHAPARRALICE.COM

Train like an Olympian! Scan for Details

Austin - Mueller 1201 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Ste. 680 | (512) 616-9583

2525 West Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78757 Your hometown rink for over 25 years!

1 / 1

$5 OFF Purchase of $30. Dine in only. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 4/10/2026

8 AREA LOCATIONS SERVING FAMILIES AND LOCALS SINCE 1997

CATERING AVAILABLE

7522 N. IH 35 Frontage Rd Building C, Austin TX 78752 • (737) 222-5136

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Proud to øe Local Proud to øe Local

SALES ★ REPAIR ★ INSTALLATION • Automatic Gates • Telephone Call Boxes • Video Security • Ornamental Iron • Steel Railing • Mobile Welding • Vehicle ID Tags • Replacement Remotes (512) 296-2671 www.austinestategate.com anthony@austinestategate.com Buy ONE remote, get ONE FREE! One coupon per residence ($50 value) SAME DAY SERVICE AVAILABLE! Residential & Commercial

BREAKFAST SERVED 9 - 11 TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY AND 9 - 1 SATURDAY MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE A FREE CUP OF COFFEE WITH BREAKFAST PLATE PURCHASE BREAKFAST SERVED 9 - 11 TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY AND 9 - 1 SATURDAY MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE A FREE CUP OF COFFEE WITH BREAKFAST PLATE PURCHASE BREAKFAST SERVED 9 - 11 TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY AND 9 - 1 SATURDAY MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE A FREE CUP OF COFFEE WITH BREAKFAST PLATE PURCHASE

CHECK HERE FOR HOURS & MENU CHECK HERE FOR HOURS & MENU CHECK HERE FOR HOURS & MENU

3300 W. Anderson Ln. Austin, TX 78757 • (512) 420-2222 Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Closed Sundays and Mondays. @EldoradoCafeATX 3300 W. Anderson Ln. Austin, TX 78757 • (512) 420-2222 Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Closed Sundays and Mondays. @EldoradoCafeATX Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Closed Sundays and Mondays. @EldoradoCafeATX

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Buy one Happy Chick Meal and get one free. Present this coupon at time of purchase.

Valid thru 4/4 /2026

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Book an appointment today!

Celebrating 20 years in Austin

15% OFF 1st visit New clients only. Exp. 3/31/26

Mention this ad.

Build Your Own Wine Flight! $18 TASTING FLIGHT Low sulfites = No headaches Globally-sourced grapes, TX-made wine Buy or bring light bites

10% OFF your next appointment Refer a new client and get Existing clients only. New Client must mention who referred them. Exp. 3/31/26

www.modmuttsalon.com

(512) 465-9463 3300 W Anderson Ln. #304 (next to Eldorado Cafe)

modmuttsalon

(512) 436-8398

109 Denson Dr. Ste. B, Austin, TX 78752

From the farm and ocean to their friendly neighborhood table, Santa Catarina combines fresh ingredients with classic and new Mexican recipes for an authentic dining experience. Join us for interior and coastal favorites, all in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Scan QR code for directions

LAKEWAY West

CEDAR PARK North

CHERRYWOOD Central

$ 10 OFF

WHEN YOU SPEND $25 OR MORE.

HAPPY HOUR Everyday 4pm to 6pm $8 House Margaritas 1/2 price on most appetizers

LUNCH SPECIALS $11 lunch specials Mon - Fri: 11am - 3pm

BRUNCH Sat: 11am - 3pm Sun: 10am - 3pm

Not to be used with any other offer. One per table. Expires 5/31/2026

santacatarinarestaurant.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

austexfence.com

(512) 503-3060

Upgrade Once. Enjoy Forever. Move from wood to TimberTech ® decking for a longer-lasting outdoor space with less upkeep.

best moisture protection Friendlier to bare feet

Best choice for fire resistance sustainably strong

Convert your deck to Timbertech decking with AusTex Fence & Deck.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

YOU SET GOALS We set standards

Whether you need joint replacement or reconstructive surgery, Ascension Texas Orthopedics is here to help you go further. To set new goals, then exceed them. With robotic-assisted technologies, fellowship-trained surgeons and comprehensive care teams, we take care of your bones and joints so you can focus on what’s next. Orthopedic care that keeps you moving

Find out what your joints are telling you. Scan the code to take a short quiz.

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